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Harvard Forest REU Symposium Abstract 2013

  • Title: Spatial analysis of early successional, temperate forest community structure
  • Author: Rebecca H Walker (University of Virginia)
  • Abstract:

    Rebecca Walker

    University of Virginia

    Chris Williams, Rich MacLean, Howard Epstein, Myroslava, Khomik, and Melanie Vanderhoof

    Spatial analysis of early successional, temperate forest community structure



    Abstract

    The global importance of sequestration of carbon by temperate forests makes characterizing the regrowth of these forests post-disturbance both ecologically and economically important. High intensity disturbances, such as logging, result in greater alteration of community composition post-disturbance, creating the potential for alterations to the cycling of carbon, water, and nutrients in the ecosystem. Because logging pressure in New England continues to increase, understanding how forest ecosystems in this region respond to disturbance is crucial. This study aims to characterize interspecies interactions within New England forests by identifying synchronous and asynchronous colocation of species following a disturbance. To accomplish this, line-intercept surveys of vegetation were conducted in a clearcut forest stand located within the Harvard Forest LTER site. Survey data collected two (2010) and five (2013) years post-clearcut were analyzed using a one-dimensional Ripley’s K. Based on preliminary analysis of the 2013 data, species demonstrated definite patterns of synchronicity and asynchronicity based on both specific species interactions as well as functional group interactions. For example, Maianthenum canadense (Canadian Maylilly) is asynchronous with shrub species but synchronous with tree species, indicating sensitivity by M. canadense to stem density. Further results from 2010 and the comparison between 2010 and 2013 are pending. These analyses provide unique information about the interspecies interactions of New England forest communities during one of the most rich and dynamic phases of succession, allowing for more informed decisions to be made regarding the regrowth of forests following a high-intensity disturbance.

  • Research Category: Large Experiments and Permanent Plot Studies; Physiological Ecology, Population Dynamics, and Species Interactions

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