An Application of Plant Functional Types for Predicting Restoration Outcomes

Authors:
Tozer, M.G., B.D.E. Mackenzie and C.C. Simpson

Publication Date:
2011

Abstract/Summary:
We evaluated the restoration of native plant assemblages by topsoil translocation in the Hunter Valley, south-east Australia. Species’ responses were characterized by defining nine plant functional types (PFTs) based on combinations of four response mechanisms (seed bank persistence, germination cues, resprouting mechanisms, and longevity) through which species were predicted to persist or decline following translocation. The effects of community type and delay in topsoil restoration on restoration outcomes were tested in an orthogonal experiment. We conclude that PFTs based on fire-response traits represent a practical means of predicting species’ responses to translocation and a basis for prioritizing species for supplementary planting.

Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article

Source:
Restoration Ecology

Link:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1526-100X.2011.00828.x/abstract