What we don’t seed: the role of long-lived seed banks as hidden legacies of invasive plants

摘要: Acacia dealbata is an invasive south-eastern Australian tree that produces a persistent soil seed bank. In order to characterize the bank in plots invaded by A. and understand its implications for management re-invasion risk, density, germinability, viability of were evaluated five sites central Portugal. Soil samples collected adjacent areas screened seeds, which then quantified germinated at 25 °C. A subset seeds was first exposed 60 °C assess effect high temperature on dormancy breaking. Variables influencing differences between explored with generalized linear mixed models Poisson distribution. Inside averaged 4608 seeds/m2, reaching up 62,747 seeds/m2; areas, 14 m from plots, only 9 seeds/m2 found. Seed densities mostly influenced stoniness, number fires last 10 years, density trees roots. Almost 90% viable, but 8.6% without treatment. Nearly 70% any physical stimulation, suggesting temperatures can effectively break dormancy. The dealbata’s ability disperse far parent plants contribute species’ success. These features combined heat events overcome need be considered this species.