Wind and seed : a conceptual model of shape-formation in the cushion plant Azorella Selago
Date
2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Springer
Abstract
Aims The sub-Antarctic cushion plant,Azorella selago, is usually hemispherical when small but frequently crescent-shaped when larger. Spatial variation in wind speed and in air-borne seed and sediment deposition is examined to determine if wind scouring and deposition patterns could contribute to the development of non-hemispherical shapes in cushion plants. Methods Computational fluid dynamic analyses were conducted for hemispherical and crescent-shaped cushion plants parameterizing models with data fromA. selagohabitats on Marion Island. Numerical data were contextualized with field observations to arrive at a conceptual model for shape development. Results Airflow modelling showed that both wind scouring and seed deposition of the commonly co-occurring grassAgrostis magellanicaare greater on the windward side of the plant. By contrast, heavier sediment particles are predominantly deposited on the leeward side of plants, leading to burial of lee-sideA. selagostems. This sediment accumulation may initiate the development of the crescent-shape in hemispherical plants by increasing stem mortality on the plant's leeward edge. Once developed, the crescent-shape is probably self-reinforcing because it generates greater air recirculation (and lower air velocities) which enhances further deposition and establishment ofA. magellanicagrasses in the lee of the crescent. The conceptual model consists therefore of three stages namely, (1) negligible air recirculation, (2) sediment deposition and grass establishment, and (3) differential cushion growth. Conclusion This conceptual model of plant shape development may explain the occurrence and orientation of crescent-shaped cushion plants and highlights how predicted changes in wind patterns may affect vegetation patterns.
Description
CITATION: Combrinck, M. L. et al. 2020. Wind and seed : a conceptual model of shape-formation in the cushion plant Azorella Selago. Plant and Soil, 455:339–366, doi:10.1007/s11104-020-04665-3.
The original publication is available at https://link.springer.com
The original publication is available at https://link.springer.com
Keywords
Aeolian processes, Cushion plants, Azorella Selago
Citation
Combrinck, M. L. et al. 2020. Wind and seed : a conceptual model of shape-formation in the cushion plant Azorella Selago. Plant and Soil, 455:339–366, doi:10.1007/s11104-020-04665-3.