How species colonize gaps after soil disturbance in temporary ponds? Implication of species traits

Abstract

This work aims to review the existing theoretical literature and experiments on plant species colonising gaps after soil disturbance. It attempts to evaluate the various mechanisms by which plants regenerate among the soil openings within the Mediterranean temporary ponds. Intensity and frequency of disturbances are key factors in the response of communities. Knowing the specificity of plant strategies and the species assembly process is important for a better understanding of the impact of soil disturbance on the structure of temporary ponds community, and their mechanisms of resilience. Under the scope of these mechanisms, we will assess the contribution of seed bank by regrowth of buried seeds, vegetative propagules growth via clonal propagation and dispersion of propagules. Soil disturbance has a biotic effect on competition giving a chance to competitively inferior species.

Keywords

• dispersion
• propagules
• resilience
• seeds
• soil disturbances
• temporary ponds