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Harvard Forest Symposium Abstract 2005
- Title: Effects of historical and modern anthropogenic disturbances on the distribution and demography of Berberis thunbergii (Japanese barberry)
- Primary Author: Brian DeGasperis (Harvard Forest)
- Additional Authors: David Foster (Harvard University); Glenn Motzkin (University of Massachusetts - Amherst )
- Abstract:
Since its introduction to Boston’s Arnold Arboretum in 1875, Berberis thunbergii (Japanese barberry) has become a prominent exotic species in deciduous forests throughout the eastern and midwestern US. Highly shade tolerant, it is capable of forming dense, nearly impenetrable thickets, even under closed canopy forest. Its ability to dominate relatively undisturbed sites to the exclusion of native species has recently generated concern amongst conservationists and land managers. As with most exotic plant species, many basic questions remain unanswered about the factors controlling the distribution and abundance of this perennial shrub. Despite their recognized importance in shaping modern species distributions, little attention has been focused on evaluating the relative roles of historical land-use versus modern disturbances in controlling biological invasions. This study will examine the distribution and demography of B. thunbergii in forests of the Quabbin Reservoir in central Massachusetts in relation to historical and modern anthropogenic disturbances and site conditions. By combining broad-scale distribution and abundance sampling with a focused study of population demographics, this study will not only document invasion patterns of B. thunbergii but will also address some of the probable mechanisms underlying these patterns. Utilizing unique historical and modern databases that have been developed for the Quabbin Reservoir watershed, I plan to conduct GIS and field studies that will: (1) document the distribution, abundance and demography of B. thunbergii relative to 1830 and 1927 land use; (2) compare the impacts of modern forest harvesting with those of historical agricultural disturbances; (3) analyze the spatial distribution of B. thunbergii relative to historical structures and roads.
As with many native species, the distribution of exotic invasives may be better predicted by historical agricultural disturbances than modern lower intensity disturbances, such as selective logging. Because invasive species control is time and resource intensive, land managers must prioritize where and to what extent invaders should be kept in check. An understanding of the factors constraining the distribution and spread of exotic invasive species is essential for efficiently predicting and managing biological invasions.
- Research Category:
