IBIS-Flora

Angiosperm Flora of India

Effects of Fire on Germination of Ericameria fasciculata (Asteraceae), a Rare Maritime Chaparral Shrub

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:2010
Authors:Detka, JR, Lambrecht, SC
Journal:Madroño
Volume:57
Issue:2
Date Published:2010
ISBN Number:0024-9637
Keywords:Asteraceae
Abstract:

Abstract Knowledge gaps regarding the greenhouse propagation of rare, fire-adapted plant species can impede community level conservation efforts that require fire and active revegetation as management tools. Ericameria fasciculata is a rare shrub endemic to the maritime chaparral community of the central California coast and a listed species of concern. Prescribed burning is actively used in maritime chaparral to maintain community composition and conserve several species of concern with known affinities for fire-related conditions. No study has investigated the seed viability and germination requirements for E. fasciculata. The goal of this study was to ascertain the (1) greenhouse propagation potential of E. fasciculata for planned restoration efforts and (2) to determine if fire-related conditions inhibit or promote E. fasciculata germination. Seed dissection and viability testing indicated that a large percentage of seed were empty or inviable. A greenhouse study examined the potential for fire-related germination cues from heating, light, and charate. Heating and charate had negative effects on seed germination. The combination of heating and charate treatments were particularly lethal. Exposure to light or the addition of GA3 had no influence on germination rates. Results suggest that seed germination of E. fasciculata is inhibited by fire and, therefore, this species is dependent on seedling establishment between fire events.Abstract Knowledge gaps regarding the greenhouse propagation of rare, fire-adapted plant species can impede community level conservation efforts that require fire and active revegetation as management tools. Ericameria fasciculata is a rare shrub endemic to the maritime chaparral community of the central California coast and a listed species of concern. Prescribed burning is actively used in maritime chaparral to maintain community composition and conserve several species of concern with known affinities for fire-related conditions. No study has investigated the seed viability and germination requirements for E. fasciculata. The goal of this study was to ascertain the (1) greenhouse propagation potential of E. fasciculata for planned restoration efforts and (2) to determine if fire-related conditions inhibit or promote E. fasciculata germination. Seed dissection and viability testing indicated that a large percentage of seed were empty or inviable. A greenhouse study examined the potential for fire-related germination cues from heating, light, and charate. Heating and charate had negative effects on seed germination. The combination of heating and charate treatments were particularly lethal. Exposure to light or the addition of GA3 had no influence on germination rates. Results suggest that seed germination of E. fasciculata is inhibited by fire and, therefore, this species is dependent on seedling establishment between fire events.

URL:http://dx.doi.org/10.3120/0024-9637-57.2.77
Short Title:Madroño
Taxonomic name: 
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Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith