Tree invasion of a montane meadow complex: temporal trends, spatial patterns, and biotic interactions

Charles B. Halpern; Joseph A. Antos; Janine M. Rice; Ryan D. Haugo; Nicole L. Lang

Treesearch

Tree invasion of a montane meadow complex: temporal trends, spatial patterns, and biotic interactions

Formally Refereed

Authors:

Charles B. Halpern, Joseph A. Antos, Janine M. Rice, Ryan D. Haugo, Nicole L. Lang

Year:

2010

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Pacific Northwest Research Station

Source:

Journal of Vegetation Science. 21(4): 717-732

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Abstract

We combined spatial point pattern analysis, population age structures, and a time-series of stem maps to quantify spatial and temporal patterns of conifer invasion over a 200-yr period in three plots totaling 4 ha. In combination, spatial and temporal patterns of establishment suggest an invasion process shaped by biotic interactions, with facilitation promoting expansion of trees into meadows and competition influencing subsequent forest development. Once invasion is initiated, tree species with different life histories and functional traits can interact synergistically to promote rapid conversion of meadow to forest under a broad range of climatic conditions.

Keywords

Abies grandis, competition, ecosystem conversion, facilitation, grassland invasion by trees, mountain meadows, Pinus contorta, tree age structure, tree spatial structure

Citation

Halpern, Charles B.; Antos, Joseph A.; Rice, Janine M.; Haugo, Ryan D.; Lang, Nicole L. 2010. Tree invasion of a montane meadow complex: temporal trends, spatial patterns, and biotic interactions. Journal of Vegetation Science. 21(4): 717-732.