Isolated Trees and Grass Removal Improve Performance of Transplanted Trema micrantha (L.) Blume (Ulmaceae) Saplings in Tropical Pastures
background
This research evaluates the survival and growth of saplings of Trema micrantha when transplanted into recently abandoned pastureland in southeast Mexico. Trema micrantha is a pioneer species native to Mexico with ecological and physiological properties that would make it viable for planting in open fields.
Research Goals & Methods
Saplings were planted in 2004 and evaluated every three months for the following year.
Conclusions & Takeaways
At 1 year after planting 53% of saplings had survived, with survival higher in areas that underwent grass treatment. Saplings under the canopy of isolated tree demonstrated increased height and crown cover faster than those in open pasture. Overall, the authors suggest that with planting in the vicinity of isolated trees and with grass treatment, transplanted saplings can be used for rainforest restoration to bypass early successional stages.
Reference:
Isolated Trees and Grass Removal Improve Performance of Transplanted Trema micrantha (L.) Blume (Ulmaceae) Saplings in Tropical Pastures. Restoration Ecology. 2011;19(1):24 - 34. doi:10.1111/j.1526-100X.2009.00536.x.
.Affiliation:
- Centro de Investigaciones en Ecosistemas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelia, Michoacán, México