Why do reed beds decline and fail to re‐establish? A case study of Dutch peat lakes

摘要: Summary The decline in emergent reed beds eutrophic shallow lakes Europe has been linked to multiple factors, such as adverse water and sediment quality, shoreline development fixed level preventing recolonisation, recreational disturbances herbivory by geese muskrat. This study analyses the relative importance of these factors a historical context tests experimentally what currently may prevent re-establishment beds. We examined extent stands (1925–2013) relation long-term time series lakeside housing (1920–2013), abundance greylag (Anser anser) muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) well quality (1977–2013) for lowland peat lake district Reeuwijk The Netherlands. In addition, we carried out comparative survey generalise our results an exclosure experiment test whether current grazing pressure hamper restoration efforts. A steady, linear over corresponded significantly with similar increase house density. We found no correlation herbivore stocks or parameters. In exclosures, rapid expansion common (Phragmites australis), branched bur-reed (Sparganium erectum) submerged pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.) occurred, suggesting factor-limiting foreshore. A combined understanding different roles slow, pressures (such development) present constraints (the continuous despite culling program) is crucial successful lakes.