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3. Seed dispersal of a fleshy‐fruited invasive shrub is affected by changes in the frugivorous bird assemblage along an elevational gradient.

Author

Juncosa‐Polzella, Agostina S., Tecco, Paula A., and Vergara‐Tabares, David L.

Subjects
*SEED dispersal, *FRUIT seeds, *INTRODUCED plants, *SHRUBS, *GRANIVORES, *ALTITUDES
Abstract

Seed dispersal by birds constitutes an essential mechanism for ornithochorous exotic plants to successfully invade a new system. New biotic associations with native birds might facilitate the upward spread of exotic plants from the foothills into the high mountains. However, environmental changes associated with elevation are known to drive changes in bird assemblages, and it is not clear how elevation changes impact the seed dispersal service of ornithochorous invaders. We evaluated changes in frugivorous bird assemblages of one of the exotic shrubs (Cotoneaster franchetii, Rosaceae) with the broadest elevation range among woody invaders in the Córdoba Mountains (Argentina). We quantified frugivory interactions (including absolute and proportional fruit consumption by seed dispersers, pulp consumers, and seed predators) using 4‐h observations of focal C. franchetii shrubs distributed across low‐elevation, mid‐elevation, and high‐elevation sites (700, 1100, and 1800 m a.s.l., respectively; 15 individuals per elevational band and one site per elevation). Seed disperser richness was highest at the low‐ and mid‐elevation sites (three species vs. one at the high‐elevation site), but proportional and absolute fruit consumption of C. franchetii was highest at the high‐elevation site (39.1%, 88 seeds at high‐elevation and 7.7%, 20 seeds at low‐elevation). The Chiguanco Thrush (Turdus chiguanco, Turdidae) was the only seed disperser species found at the highest elevation site. Fruit consumption by seed dispersers was positively related to their abundance and elevation. In a high mountain system, a single abundant generalist seed disperser, rather than a high richness of seed disperser species, can uphold an effective dispersal service for an invasive ornithochorous shrub. This pattern may facilitate the spread of such plants across higher elevational ranges, thereby promoting the invasion of other exotic ornithochorous plants into upper elevations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2023
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6. Correction to:A review of fire effects across South American ecosystems: the role of climate and time since fire (Fire Ecology, (2021), 17, 1, (11), 10.1186/s42408-021-00100-9)

Author

Giorgis, Melisa A., Zeballos, Sebastian R., Carbone, Lucas, Zimmermann, Heike, von Wehrden, Henrik, Aguilar, Ramiro, Ferreras, Ana E., Tecco, Paula A., Kowaljow, Esteban, Barri, Fernando, Gurvich, Diego E., Villagra, Pablo, and Jaureguiberry, Pedro

Subjects
Didactics of sciences education
Abstract

Following publication of the original article (Giorgis et al. 2021), the authors identified an error in the legend of Fig. 1A: Semi-arid should be yellow and orange should be dry. The correct figure is given below. The correct figure has been included in this Correction and the original article has been corrected. (Figure presented.).

Published
2021
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7. DISTRIBUCIÓN DE UNA LEÑOSA EXÓTICA INVASORA EN UN SISTEMA DE MONTAÑA ¿OCUPAN COTONEASTER FRANCHETII Y LA LEÑOSA NATIVA POLYLEPIS AUSTRALIS (ROSACEAE) HÁBITATS SIMILARES?

Author

Cecilia Ferrero, M., Gurvich, Diego E., Marcora, Paula I., and Tecco, Paula A.

Subjects
NATIVE species, SPECIES distribution, HABITAT selection, INVASIVE plants, INTRODUCED species, ECOSYSTEM services, NATIONAL parks & reserves, HABITATS, MOUNTAIN forests
Abstract

Copyright of Boletín de la Sociedad Argentina de Botánica is the property of Sociedad Argentina de Botanica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Published
2023
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9. Floristic patterns of the neotropical forests, savannas and scrublands with Trithrinax campestris (Arecaceae) in central Argentina

Author

Zeballos, Sebastián R., primary, Cabido, Marcelo R., additional, Cantero, Juan J., additional, Acosta, Alicia T.R., additional, Palchetti, M. Virginia, additional, Argarañaz, Juan, additional, Marcora, Paula I., additional, Tecco, Paula A., additional, Ferreras, Ana, additional, Funes, Guillermo, additional, Vaieretti, Victoria M., additional, Conti, Georgina, additional, and Giorgis, Melisa A., additional

Published
2021
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11. Are populations of Polylepis australis locally adapted along their elevation gradient?

Author

Inés Marcora, Paula, Tecco, Paula A., Cecilia Ferrero, María, Elisa Ferreras, Ana, Rodolfo Zeballos, Sebastián, Funes, Guillermo, Gurvich, Diego Ezequiel, Arias, Gonzalo, Cáceres, Yolanda, and Hensen, Isabell

Subjects
*REGENERATION (Botany), *ALTITUDES, *MOUNTAIN climate, *SPECIES distribution, *GERMINATION
Abstract

Mountain ecosystems are characterized by steep environmental gradients. Species with broad elevation distribution are exposed to contrasting climatic conditions along their gradients. In response to those changes, species might develop ecotypes adapted to the local climate. Early regeneration is the most critical stage for plant populations and, therefore, withstands strong selection pressures. Previous studies showed a unimodal pattern of intraspecific variability in fitness components among Polylepis australis populations along their elevation gradient in the mountains of central Argentina. Whether this variability is the result of local populations' adjustments to their respective site remains unknown. We tested the hypothesis that P. australis populations from different elevations would be locally adapted to their local environments, where they would perform better than populations from other elevations (origins). We applied an experimental approach by establishing common gardens at three contrasting elevations. Seeds and saplings of P. australis populations from the low, mid- and high elevation belts of the species distribution gradient (i.e. three origins) were reciprocally sown and transplanted in three elevation sites (low, mid- and high). Seed germination success, sapling growth and mortality were monitored for three years. Our main results show that the origin of populations influenced germination success and sapling growth, whereas sapling mortality was marginally affected. Populations of both elevation extremes seem to be more adjusted to local conditions than the population from the intermediate elevation, probably due to the harsher environmental conditions for plant regeneration typical of the lower and upper elevation belts of semiarid mountains. Finally, our results strongly suggest that temperature rise due to climate change in this mountain area might have negative effects on the regeneration of P. australis populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2021
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13. Composición de especies leñosas en comunidades invadidas en montañas del centro de Argentina: su relación con factores ambientales locales

Author

Zeballos, Sebastián R., Tecco, Paula A., Cabido, Marcelo, and Gurvich, Diego E.

Subjects
environmental segregation, Chaco Serrano, invasiones biológicas, segregación ambiental, biological invasions, leñosas exóticas, Mountain Chaco, bosque subtropical, woody aliens, análisis jerárquicos de agrupamiento, cluster analysis, subtropical forest
Abstract

Invasions by exotic woody species are threatening ecosystem functions worldwide. The spread and subsequent replacement of native forest by exotic dominated stands is particularly evident nearby urban centers were exotic propagule pressure is highest. Yet, there is a lack of information on the environmental factors that underlie these replacements. In this study we addressed the following questions: (1) ¿is there a local spatial segregation between the dominant native and exotic woody species? and (2) if this local segregation does exist, is it driven by environmental features?. For this, in 2010 we established 31 plots distributed along 16 sampling site we surveyed the composition and abundance of all woody species with a basal diameter ≥ 5cm. To characterize the environment of each plot, we measured the topographic position (slope, exposure) and different properties such as soil physics (bulk density, soil impedance), structure (soil deep, texture) and chemical characteristics (pH, nutrient and water content). Through a cluster analysis we were able to identify five different woody communities in coexistence: (1) Woodlands dominated by the exotic Ligustrum lucidum; (2) Mixed woodlands dominated by the native Lithraea molleoides and the exotic Celtis australis; (3) Scrublands dominated by the native Condalia buxifolia; (4) Scrublands dominated by the exotic Cotoneaster glaucophyllus, and (5) Scrubby grasslands with the exotic Pyracantha angustifolia. These communities were all associated with different local topographic and edaphic features. The environmental segregation among the identified communities suggests that woody invaders have the potential to colonize almost all the environments of the study site (though varying in the identity of the dominant exotic species). The observed patterns, even being restricted to a single well invaded area of mountain Chaco, may posit the spread of woody invaders towards native communities in the region En todo el mundo, las invasiones de especies leñosas exóticas están amenazando las funciones ecosistémicas. La dispersión y el subsecuente reemplazo de bosques de especies nativas por comunidades dominadas por exóticas es evidente, particularmente, en proximidad a centros urbanos donde la presión de propágulos de especies exóticas es alta. Sin embargo, existe una falta de información sobre los factores ambientales que subyacen este reemplazo. En este estudio nos propusimos responder las siguientes preguntas: (1) ¿sí se observa una segregación espacial a escala local entre especies leñosas exóticas y/o nativas dominantes?, y (2) si existe esa segregación, ¿está asociada a variables ambientales? En el 2010 se establecieron 31 parcelas distribuidas en 16 laderas en los bosques Chaqueños de las Sierras de Córdoba, en Argentina central. En cada uno de los sitios de muestreo se relevó la composición y abundancia de todas las especies leñosas con un diámetro a la altura de la base superior a 5cm. Para caracterizar el ambiente en cada una de las parcelas medimos la posición topográfica (pendiente y orientación) y algunas propiedades asociadas con la física (densidad aparente y compactación), estructura (profundidad y textura) y con la química (pH y el contenido de nutrientes y agua) del suelo. A través, de un análisis jerárquico de agrupamiento, se identificaron cinco comunidades de leñosas coexistiendo: (1) Bosques dominados por Ligustrum lucidum, (2) Bosques mixtos dominados por Lithraea molleoides y Celtis australis, (3) Matorrales de Condalia buxifolia, (4) Matorrales de Cotoneaster glaucophyllus, y (5) Pajonales con emergentes de Pyracantha angustifolia. Estas comunidades se asociaron diferencialmente a las variables topográficas y edáficas locales. La segregación ambiental observada sugiere que las especies invasoras tienen una capacidad potencial para colonizar casi todos los ambientes en el área de estudio (variando la identidad de la invasora). En conjunto, los patrones descritos, aunque circunscriptos a un área de Chaco Serrano con un avanzado grado de invasión, plantearían un escenario de posible expansión de las leñosas exóticas sobre las comunidades nativas.

Published
2014
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14. Woody species composition in invaded communities from mountains of central Argentina: their relations with local environmental factors

Author

Zeballos, Sebastián Rodolfo, Tecco, Paula Andrea, Cabido, Marcelo Ruben, and Gurvich, Diego Ezequiel

Subjects
Ciencias Biológicas, purl.org/becyt/ford/1 [https], BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS, WOODY ALIENS, CLUSTER ANALYSIS, ENVIRONMENTAL SEGREGATIONS, Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, purl.org/becyt/ford/1.6 [https], CIENCIAS NATURALES Y EXACTAS
Abstract

Invasions by exotic woody species are threatening ecosystem functions worldwide. The spread and subsequent replacement of native forest by exotic dominated stands is particularly evident nearby urban centers were exotic propagule pressure is highest. Yet, there is a lack of information on the environmental factors that underlie these replacements. In this study we addressed the following questions: (1) is there a local spatial segregation between the dominant native and exotic woody species? and (2) if this local segregation does exist, is it driven by environmental features?. For this, in 2010 we established 31 plots distributed along 16 sampling sites where we surveyed the composition and abundance of all woody species with a basal diameter ≥ 5cm. To characterize the environment of each plot, we measured the topographic position (slope, exposure) and different properties such as soil physics (bulk density, soil impedance), structure (soil deep, texture) and chemical characteristics (pH, nutrient and water content). Through a cluster analysis we were able to identify five different woody communities in coexistence: (1) Woodlands dominated by the exotic Ligustrum lucidum; (2) Mixed woodlands dominated by the native Lithraea molleoides and the exotic Celtis australis; (3) Scrublands dominated by the native Condalia buxifolia; (4) Scrublands dominated by the exotic Cotoneaster glaucophyllus, and (5) Scrubby grasslands with the exotic Pyracantha angustifolia. These communities were all associated with different local topographic and edaphic features. The environmental segregation among the identified communities suggests that woody invaders have the potential to colonize almost all the environments of the study site (though varying in the identity of the dominant exotic species). The observed patterns, even being restricted to a single well invaded area of mountain Chaco, may posit the spread of woody invaders towards native communities in the region. Fil: Zeballos, Sebastián Rodolfo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Tecco, Paula Andrea. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Cabido, Marcelo Ruben. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Gurvich, Diego Ezequiel. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina

Published
2014

15. Árboles y arbustos invasores de la Provincia de Córdoba (Argentina): Una contribución a la sistematización de bases de datos globales

Author

Giorgis, Melisa Adriana and Tecco, Paula Andrea

Subjects
Ciencias Biológicas, PLANTAS LEÑOSAS, purl.org/becyt/ford/1 [https], BASE DE DATOS, SUDAMERICA, INVASIVIDAD, EXÓTICAS INVASORAS, Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, NATIVAS INVASORAS, purl.org/becyt/ford/1.6 [https], INVASIBILIDAD, CIENCIAS NATURALES Y EXACTAS
Abstract

Se presenta la primera base de especies invasoras arbóreas y arbustivas de la Provincia de Córdoba y se analiza en el contexto de las invasiones por leñosas a escala nacional y mundial. Se identificaron 34 especies leñosas exóticas invasoras. La mayoría son originarias de Europa, Asia y Medio Oriente, introducidas como ornamentales. Los ecosistemas más invadidos son los pastizales (39%) seguido por bosques y matorrales (32%). La mayoría (59%) se dispersan por animales (aves) y viento (35%). A excepción de dos especies, la mayoría son también invasoras en otros lugares del mundo. No obstante, solo la mitad de las invasoras de Córdoba se registraban como invasoras de Sudamérica. Esto último refleja la magnitud en la cual se está subestimando la invasibilidad del continente Sudamericano. Dos especies (Cupressus macrocarpa y Zanthoxylum armatum) se incorporarían como nuevas especies en la base mundial de leñosas invasoras. Se detalla la información faltante en dos bases nacionales, esperando contribuir a la actualización de estos valiosos documentos. Finalmente se listan seis especies nativas de Argentina que estarían invadiendo comunidades vegetales de Córdoba. Esperamos que esta base de datos aporte al desarrollo de estudios básicos y aplicados en la ecología de las invasiones biológicas. Invasive alien trees and shrubs in Córdoba Province (Argentina): a contribution to the systematization of global bases. We present the first database of invasive alien trees and shrubs of Córdoba Province and analyze it in the context of current national and global databases. We identified 34 invasive woody alien species. Most aliens are from Europe, Asia and Middle East origin, introduced for horticulture reasons. Grasslands are the most invaded ecosystem (39%), followed by woodlands and shrublands (32%). Most of the species (59%) are dispersed by animals (birds) and wind (35%). Except for two species, most of the species has also been recorded as invaders in other areas of the world. However, only half of them are currently registered as invaders in South America. This might reflect the notably lower research on biological invasions within the continent and the subsequent bias and underestimation of its invasibility. Two species (Cupressus macrocarpa and Zanthoxylum armatum) should be incorporated as new species in the global database. We also refer to some missing information in two major national databases, hoping to contribute with their updating. Finally, we mention six species native to Argentina to be considered as native invaders of Cordoba Province ecosystems. Overall, we expect to provide useful information for the development of basic and applied studies of biological invasions. Fil: Giorgis, Melisa Adriana. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Tecco, Paula Andrea. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina

Published
2014

16. Efecto de la temperatura en la regeneración de especies leñosas del Chaco Serrano e implicancias en la distribución actual y potencial de bosques

Author

Pais Bosch, Ana Ines, Tecco, Paula Andrea, Funes, Guillermo, and Cabido, Marcelo Ruben

Subjects
purl.org/becyt/ford/1 [https], Ciencias Biológicas, TEMPERATURA, CHACO SERRANO, LÍMITE SUPERIOR DE BOSQUES, REGENERACIÓN, Ecología, purl.org/becyt/ford/1.6 [https], GRADIENTE ALTITUDINAL, CIENCIAS NATURALES Y EXACTAS
Abstract

La temperatura influye sobre los límites de distribución de las especies leñosas, actuando sobre los procesos asociados con la fase regenerativa de las plantas. Nos propusimos analizar su influencia en la distribución altitudinal del bosque chaqueño serrano y su potencial coexistencia con bosquecillos de altura en las Sierras Grandes de Córdoba. Se evaluó la regeneración a campo de dos especies del bosque serrano (Ruprechtia apetala y Lithraea molleoides) y la dominante en los bosquecillos de altura (Polylepis australis) abarcando el gradiente altitudinal completo de estas sierras (900-2700 m s.n.m.). En el laboratorio se evaluó la germinación bajo cuatro termo-períodos representativos de las condiciones del gradiente altitudinal. Polylepis australis germinó en los cuatro termo-períodos y en los siete niveles altitudinales en el campo. L. molleoides mostró nula germinación a bajas temperaturas (10/5ºC) en el laboratorio, pero germinó y sus renovales sobrevivieron en todo el gradiente altitudinal en el experimento de campo. Ruprechtia apetala fue la más restringida, no estableciéndose por encima de 1500 m s.n.m. a campo, ni germinando a bajas temperaturas en el laboratorio. Los resultados obtenidos sugieren que, al menos en términos de reclutamiento y establecimiento de renovales, la franja altitudinal de 1400-1700 m s.n.m. de las Sierras Grandes de Córdoba, tiene potencialidad para albergar una comunidad de transición, con elementos leñosos del bosque serrano y de los bosquecillos de altura. Fil: Pais Bosch, Ana Ines. Universidad Nacional de Catamarca. Facultad de Cs.agrarias. Departamento de Producción Animal; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Tecco, Paula Andrea. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Funes, Guillermo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Cabido, Marcelo Ruben. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina

Published
2012

18. Mountain invasions on the way: are there climatic constraints for the expansion of alien woody species along an elevation gradient in Argentina?

Author

Tecco, Paula A., Pais-Bosch, Ana I., Funes, Guillermo, Marcora, Paula I., Zeballos, Sebastián R., Cabido, Marcelo, and Urcelay, Carlos

Subjects
SYMPATRIC speciation, BIOLOGICAL classification, SEEDS, GENETIC speciation, GENE expression in plants
Abstract

Aims Increasing evidence worldwide indicates that high mountain regions are not immune to invasion by alien plants. Here, we aimed to address whether three major woody invaders of low-mountain areas are constrained to lower altitudes due to climatic restrictions or just by low propagule pressure. We hypothesize that the increasing climatic harshness towards higher altitudes restricts seedling establishment and survival of these woody invaders and thus their potential for altitudinal expansion. Methods The study was carried out in the Sierras Grandes Mountains, Córdoba, central Argentina (32º50'S, 64º90'W). We addressed the hypothesis with an experimental approach, dissociating the effect of the environmental gradient from that of propagule pressure, by discarding the influence of seed sources. We translocated seeds of Gleditsia triacanthos L., Ligustrum lucidum W.T. Aiton. and Pyracantha angustifolia (Franch.) C.K.Schneid. along the altitudinal gradient (from 900 to 2700 m asl). Seven sites were selected along the altitudinal gradient, spaced every 200-400 m. Three plots (4 x 4 m) were selected within each altitudinal site and excluded from livestock; 100 seeds of each species were sown within each plot (6300 seeds in total). Seedling emergence and survival was monitored during two growing seasons and soil temperature and moisture was recorded as well. The field experiment was complemented with lab assays. Important Findings Climate along this altitudinal gradient might be least restrictive at mid elevations, as a result of the intersection between opposite soil temperature and moisture gradients. Sown seeds germinated along the whole altitudinal gradient and seedlings successfully established and over-wintered well above their current altitudinal distribution (up to 2200 m for Ligustrum and 2400 m for Gleditsia and Pyracantha). Additional lab assays confirmed field patterns and gave some insights into contrasting regeneration strategies between these invaders that might help to overcome stochastic environmental constraints in the germination stage. Overall, seedlings of three major woody invaders of low-mountain woodlands can establish and survive at higher elevations than their current distribution. In contrast to natives, they seem to be broad climate tolerators, rather than specialized stress tolerators, capable of germinating and growing across a wide elevational range. While long-term experiments might be necessary to fully address the potentials for altitudinal expansion, out results on early lifecycle stage suggest that the invaders studied here would have mostly a dispersal barrier rather than a climate barrier to establish in the upper belt of the Sierras Grandes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2016
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24. ÁRBOLES Y ARBUSTOS INVASORES DE LA PROVINCIA DE CÓRDOBA (ARGENTINA): UNA CONTRIBUCIÓN A LA SISTEMATIZACIÓN DE BASES DE DATOS GLOBALES.

Author

GIORGIS, MELISA A. and TECCO, PAULA A.

Abstract

Invasive alien trees and shrubs in Córdoba Province (Argentina): a contribution to the systematization of global bases. We present the first database of invasive alien trees and shrubs of Córdoba Province and analyze it in the context of current national and global databases. We identified 34 invasive woody alien species. Most aliens are from Europe, Asia and Middle East origin, introduced for horticulture reasons. Grasslands are the most invaded ecosystem (39%), followed by woodlands and shrublands (32%). Most of the species (59%) are dispersed by animals (birds) and wind (35%). Except for two species, most of the species has also been recorded as invaders in other areas of the world. However, only half of them are currently registered as invaders in South America. This might reflect the notably lower research on biological invasions within the continent and the subsequent bias and underestimation of its invasibility. Two species (Cupressus macrocarpa and Zanthoxylum armatum) should be incorporated as new species in the global database. We also refer to some missing information in two major national databases, hoping to contribute with their updating. Finally, we mention six species native to Argentina to be considered as native invaders of Cordoba Province ecosystems. Overall, we expect to provide useful information for the development of basic and applied studies of biological invasions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2014

25. Contrasting functional trait syndromes underlay woody alien success in the same ecosystem.

Author

TECCO, PAULA A., URCELAY, CARLOS, DÍAZ, SANDRA, CABIDO, MARCELO, and PÉREZ‐HARGUINDEGUY, NATALIA

Subjects
*INTRODUCED species, *DISPERSAL (Ecology), *FORESTS & forestry, *BIOTIC communities, *BIOLOGICAL invasions, *ACQUISITIVENESS, *PHENOLOGY
Abstract

We performed a comprehensive comparative study of functional traits in coexisting alien and native woody species in order to examine the strategies related to resource use and dispersion underlying alien success in mountain Chaco woodlands of central Argentina. Our approach integrated seemingly contrasting pieces of evidence in the region. We specifically assessed whether (i) the 'functional acquisitive trend' previously observed along a broad environmental gradient accounts for woody alien naturalization when considering a single mesic ecosystem; or (ii) more than one trait syndrome is important among alien species, which would be more in line with the context-dependent nature of biological invasions at a local scale. Fifteen vegetative and regenerative traits were measured on the most common 14 native and 11 alien woody species. We compared the attributes of (i) native and alien species and (ii) between native species and two contrasting groups of alien species identified in the previous analysis. The overall trait comparison (i) showed that, in terms of vegetative attributes, woody alien species tend to be on average more acquisitive than native species. However, (ii) two contrasting syndromes were revealed among alien species: a group of seven deciduous species with acquisitive attributes; and a group of four evergreen species showing markedly more conservative attributes than the first group. The functional attributes of 'conservative aliens' completely overlapped with the range observed for native species, except for an exclusive dispersal phenology and a stronger tendency to clonal spread. Acquisitive aliens, in turn, proved to be beyond the range of attributes of native species, at the acquisitive extreme, as they did in previous comparisons. Despite their importance, general trends in plant functional attributes across regions and ecosystems can sometimes obscure trends at more local scales that are nevertheless important for the understanding and management of particular systems. Our study concurs with previous general trends when looking at the overall comparison between native and alien species, but unveils contrasting functional strategies among alien species when examining their attributes more closely, even within the same ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2013
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26. Floristic patterns of the neotropical forests, savannas and scrublands with Trithrinax campestris (Arecaceae) in central Argentina

Author

M. Virginia Palchetti, Alicia Teresa Rosario Acosta, Marcelo Cabido, Georgina Conti, Melisa A. Giorgis, Paula Inés Marcora, Guillermo Funes, Juan Jose Cantero, Juan Argarañaz, Paula A. Tecco, Victoria M. Vaieretti, Sebastián R. Zeballos, Ana Elisa Ferreras, Zeballos, Sebastián R., Cabido, Marcelo R., Cantero, Juan J., Acosta, Atr, Palchetti, M. Virginia, Argarañaz, Juan, Marcora, Paula I., Tecco, Paula A., Ferreras, Ana, Funes, Guillermo, Vaieretti, Victoria M., Conti, Georgina, and Giorgis, Melisa A.

Subjects
0106 biological sciences, Chaco, chorotype, endemism, environmental variable, Espinal, floristic composition, palm, species richness, vegetation type, Environmental variable, Arecaceae, Vegetation type, 010603 evolutionary biology, 01 natural sciences, Floristics, Shrubland, Floristic composition, purl.org/becyt/ford/1 [https], vegetation type, floristic composition, species richness, purl.org/becyt/ford/1.6 [https], lcsh:Environmental sciences, lcsh:GE1-350, environmental variable, geography.geographical_feature_category, biology, Trithrinax campestris, Forestry, chorotype, biology.organism_classification, Palm, Chaco, Espinal, Geography, endemism, palm, 010606 plant biology & botany
Abstract

Trithrinax campestris is one of the palm species with the southernmost distribution in the Neotropics. Despite that the vegetation types in which T. campestris occurs are nowadays heavily threatened by land use and land cover changes, their floristic composition and structure are still to be documented. In order to characterize T. campestris habitats, the aim of this study was to describe the floristic composition of the vegetation types in which this palm occurs and their relationships with different environmental factors.Study area: The survey was conducted in central Argentina in an area comprising the southern extreme of the distribution of T. campestris in the following phytogeographic areas: Espinal, Lowland and Mountain Chaco.Methods: Following the Braun-Blanquet approach we collected 92 floristic relevés recording a total of 601 vascular plant species. Vegetation was classified through the ISOPAM hierarchical analysis. Bioclimatic and elevation data were related to the floristic data through the ISOMAP ordination. Remote-sensed images (Landsat TM, ETM+ and OLI) were used to characterize the fire frequency in the 92 stands.Results: Four vegetation types that differed in floristic composition and in diagnostic species were discriminated: 1.1 Celtis tala/Sida rhombifolia closed forest; 1.2 Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco/Prosopis kuntzei open forest; 2.1 Jarava pseudoichu/Vachellia caven open savanna; and 2.2 Acalypha variabilis/Nassella cordobensis scrubland. The ISOMAP ordination showed that differences in floristic composition were related to elevation, topography and climatic variables.Out of the 92 stands, only 21 showed the occurrence of fires during the period 1999?2018.Conclusions: Our results evidenced that vegetation types (forests, savannas and scrublands) comprising T. campestris developed in a wide range of environmental conditions. This is the first study that focuses on all vegetation types in which T. campestris occurs in central Argentina and it is relevant for conservation and sustainable management of the only native palm species in the flora of this part of the country. Fil: Zeballos, Sebastián Rodolfo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Cabido, Marcelo Ruben. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Cantero, Juan Jose. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Acosta, Alicia Teresa Rosario. Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto. Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria. Departamento de Biología Agrícola; Argentina Fil: Palchetti, Maria Virginia. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Argarañaz, Juan. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Marcora, Paula Inés. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Tecco, Paula Andrea. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Ferreras, Ana Elisa. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Funes, Guillermo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Vaieretti, Maria Victoria. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Conti, Georgina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina Fil: Giorgis, Melisa Adriana. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales; Argentina

Published
2021

27. Plasticidad fenotípica en caracteres funcionales relacionados a la adquisición y uso de recursos en leñosas invasoras y nativas de las Sierras Chicas de Córdoba

Author

Zeballos, Sebastián Rodolfo., Gurvich, Diego Ezequiel, and Tecco, Paula Andrea

Subjects
SIERRAS DE CORDOBA (ARGENTINA), CIENCIAS BIOLOGICAS, ESPECIES LEÑOSAS NATIVAS, GRADIENTE AMBIENTAL, TESIS
Abstract

Tesis (Grado en Ciencias Biológicas) -- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Lugar de Trabajo: Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal IMBIV - CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba 2015. - 134 h. con Apéndice + CD. tbls. ; figuras ; Contiene Referencia Bibliográficas y Publicaciones Derivadas de la Tesis. Abstract en español e inglés. En las Sierras Chicas de Córdoba, uno de los principales factores de cambio de la vegetación es la invasión de especies leñosas exóticas. Esta problemática ha ido acompañada de un incremento en los estudios en los cuales se examina la invasibilidad de los ecosistemas y las características de algunas invasoras leñosas. Sin embargo, en la región no existen estudios que evalúen la relación entre la presencia y abundancia de leñosas invasoras con variables ambientales edáficas y topográficas que actúan a escala local, en conjunto con atributos indicadores de la adquisición y uso de recursos. Tampoco hay antecedentes sobre la existencia de plasticidad fenotípica en las especies invasoras y nativas en respuesta a los gradientes ambientales propios del sistema serrano. Es esperable que en ambientes heterogéneos, donde la disponibilidad de recursos varía en escalas espaciales muy cortas, la capacidad de modificar o ajustar la estrategia de adquisición y uso de los mismos sea un factor clave para el establecimiento y expansión de una especie invasora. Por lo tanto, en esta Tesis se planteó un estudio comparativo a escala local con la finalidad de evaluar la influencia de la heterogeneidad ambiental local en los patrones de distribución de las especies leñosas invasoras de las Sierras Chicas de Córdoba y analizar si las principales invasoras se diferencian de las nativas en cuanto a la media de sus características funcionales y/o en la capacidad de ajustar sus caracteres funcionales a la heterogeneidad ambiental del sistema. En consecuencia, se realizó una caracterización ambiental (edáfica y topográfica) y se midió la estructura y composición florística de especies leñosas en 32 parcelas en un sitio cercano a la localidad de Salsipuedes (Prov. Córdoba). Posteriormente, se seleccionaron cuatro invasoras (Celtis australis, Cotoneaster glaucophyllus, Ligustrum lucidum y Pyracantha angustifolia) y cuatro nativas (Acacia caven, Celtis ehrenbergiana, Condalia buxifolia y Lithraea molleoides), las cuales fueron caracterizadas en base a ocho caracteres funcionales vinculados al esquema ecológico de las estrategias de vida de las plantas. En especial vinculados a la (1) dimensión del transporte de agua, (2) al espectro de la economía foliar y (3) a la inversión en biomasa foliar. Los caracteres medidos como indicadores de cada una de estas estrategias fueron para (1): área foliar efectiva (AFefc), área foliar total por área de conducción (AF/AC), densidad de leño (Dl) y contenido saturado de agua en el leño (CSAl); para (2): área foliar específica (AFE) y contenido de materia seca de hoja (CMSh) y para (3) área foliar total por masa total (AF/MT) y fracción de masa foliar (FMF). Se observó una segregación espacial entre distintas comunidades de leñosas, asociada a condiciones topográficas y edáficas diferenciales. Las leñosas invasoras fueron las especies dominantes en la mayoría de las comunidades identificadas y en los demás casos fueron las especies subordinadas más importantes. De acuerdo con los caracteres funcionales de las especies estudiadas, se observó que el éxito de las leñosas invasoras que dominan comunidades del Bosque Serrano no se relacionaría con una mayor plasticidad fenotípica sino con una ventaja constitutiva, determinada por una mayor eficiencia en el transporte del agua y una gran inversión en biomasa foliar. No obstante, la invasora Pyracantha angustiolia constituye una excepción a este patrón general, ya que exhibió tanto una estrategia funcional como una plasticidad fenotípica similar a algunas especies nativas y distintas a las demás invasoras, lo cual le permitiría adaptarse a condiciones ambientales con una menor disponibilidad de recursos, con grandes implicancias en la dinámica de la sucesión en las comunidades vegetales. La segregación ambiental observada en la distribución de especies leñosas, sugiere que las especies invasoras tendrían una capacidad potencial para colonizar casi todos los ambientes en las Sierras Chicas de Córdoba (variando la identidad de la invasora). Esto, sumado a su diferenciación funcional, plantearía un escenario de posible expansión de las leñosas invasoras sobre las comunidades nativas.

Published
2019

28. Estrategias funcionales en una leñosa nativa y una invasora en las Sierras Grandes de Córdoba: variación inter e intraespecífica en el gradiente altitudinal

Author

Ferrero, María Cecilia, Gurvich, Diego Ezequiel, and Tecco, Paula Andrea

Subjects
Ciencias Biológicas, purl.org/becyt/ford/1 [https], Gradiente Altitudinal, Caracteres Funcionales, Cotoneaster Franchetii, Ecología, Variabilidad Intraespecífica, Invasiones Biologicas, purl.org/becyt/ford/1.6 [https], Polylepis Australis, CIENCIAS NATURALES Y EXACTAS
Abstract

Las especies exóticas invasoras pueden alterar la estructura y el funcionamiento delos ecosistemas invadidos, afectando su diversidad nativa y los servicios ecosistémicos que brindan. Existe un creciente registro de plantas invasoras que avanzan sobre los ecosistemas de montaña en todo el mundo. Debido a que los sistemas montañosos son fundamentales en la provisión de servicios ecosistémicos y que albergan una elevada biodiversidad, es de gran importancia evaluar los mecanismos que favorecen la expansión de plantas invasoras en la altitud. En este contexto, tanto las estrategias funcionales de una especie como su variabilidad intraespecífica tendrían relevancia en el éxito de la invasión ya que permiten dar una respuesta a la severidad climática y a la elevada heterogeneidad ambiental que caracterizan a los gradientes altitudinales. En esta Tesis se evaluó el rol de la variabilidad inter e intraespecífica de caracteres funcionales en la capacidad invasora dela principal leñosa exótica de las Sierras Grandes de Córdoba, Cotoneaster franchetii Bois. Para ellos se utilizó un enfoque comparativo con la leñosa nativa dominante, Polylepis australis Bitter, a lo largo de un gradiente altitudinal. Como forma decontextualizar la comparación entre las especies, primero se estudiaron los patrones de distribución de ambas especies y su relación con variables ambientales a escala local en una transecta altitudinal, entre los 1270 y los 2050 m s.n.m. Posteriormente, se compararon las estrategias de uso de recursos y de uso del agua mediante la determinación de ocho atributos funcionales encada una de las especies en el gradiente. La variabilidad intraespecífica se evaluó considerando tres aspectos diferentes: (a) la dirección del cambio en relación con el gradiente altitudinal y con un gradiente edáfico vinculado a la topografía, (b) la magnitud de esa variabilidad en cada especie y (c) la asociación con variables indicadoras de la aptitud (es decir, el potencial adaptativo de la variabilidad a nivel de especie). Finalmente, mediante un experimento de jardín común en invernadero se evaluó si la variabilidad intraespecífica de los caracteres funcionales observada a campo está determinada principalmente por componentes plásticos o por variación genética.La invasora C. franchetii fue más abundante a menores altitudes y P. australis a mayores altitudes. No obstante, se observó que ambas especies ocurrieron más frecuentemente en el mismo tipo de hábitat (sitios más protegidos del clima y de disturbios y con mayor disponibilidad hídrica). En cuanto a los atributos funcionales, C. franchetii presentó, en promedio y en todo el gradiente, una estrategia más conservativa en el uso de recursos (una adquisición y ciclado más lento de los nutrientes) y más segura en el uso de agua (un tallo que privilegia evitar pérdida de funcionalidad del xilema por cavitación a costa de tener un flujo de agua menos eficiente) que P. australi. Ambas especies presentaron niveles similares de variabilidad intraespecífica en los caracteres funcionales. Sin embargo, en P. australis esta variabilidad se asoció en forma directa con el gradiente altitudinal y con el gradiente edáfico (más conservativa con la altitud y a menor desarrollo del suelo), mientras que en C. franchetii esa relación no se observó. En ambas especies se presentó una relación entre la variabilidad de sus caracteres y las variables de aptitud (principalmente en términos de crecimiento para P. australis y de peso de las semillas y germinación en C. franchetii). Notablemente, a pesar del menor ajuste de sus características a los gradientes estudiados, en términos generales, la invasora presentó mayor aptitud que la nativa en todo el gradiente altitudinal. El experimento de jardín común indicó, para ambas especies, un predominio de elasticidad fenotípica en la variabilidad de los caracteres funcionales. En conjunto, los resultados de la Tesis sugieren una invasión reciente de C. franchetii en el área de estudio y que su éxito no está determinado por un ajuste preciso de sus estrategias funcionales a los gradientes ambientales que ocupa, aun cuando predominan mecanismos de repuesta rápida (plasticidad) en esa variabilidad. Una estrategia más conservativa en el uso de los recursos y más segura en el transporte del agua junto con una mayor aptitud en comparación con P. australis permitirían a C. franchetii establecerse exitosamente en un rango ambiental más amplio que la nativa, tanto en la altitud como en la heterogeneidad local, en este ecosistema altamente restrictivo. Asimismo, la elevada aptitud de C. franchetii y la preferencia por los mismos hábitats que P.australis indican un importante riesgo para la leñosa nativa y para los ecosistemas de altura de Córdoba en general, si la invasión continúa extendiéndose en la altitud. It is well known that invasive alien species are affecting native biodiversity and disrupting important ecosystem services by changing ecosystems structure and processes. There is increasing evidence of plant invasions moving towards high elevation environments worldwide. Understanding the drivers of invasion success in these environments is of great value given that mountains ecosystems provide valuable services for lowland human settlements and bear high biodiversity. Functional strategies as well as their intraspecific variability allow species to adjust to the climatic severity and high environmental heterogeneity that characterize altitudinal gradients. Accordingly, functional variability is expected to be of great relevance for invasion success. The aim of this Thesis was to evaluate the role of functional trait inter-and intraspecific variability in the invasion success of Cotoneaster franchetii Bois, the main woody exotic species at the higher elevations of Córdoba mountains. For this purpose,a comparative approach with the native dominant woody species, Polylepis australisBitter, was used along the altitudinal gradient. Distribution patterns of both species along an altitudinal transect (i.e., 1270 to 2050 m a.s.l.)were first studied in order to put the functional comparisons in context. Resource-use and water-use strategies of both species were compared along the altitudinal gradient and within the local environmental gradients of certain elevations (i.e., four elevations along each species distribution range). Intraspecific variability was assessed considering three main aspects: (a) the direction of the functional change in relation to the altitudinal and local gradients, (b) the magnitude of the variability in each species and (c) the relationship of that variability with three fitness variables (i.e.,the adaptative potential of theintraspecific functional variability). In addition, the role of genetic variationand phenotypic plasticity in functional trait variability of each species were evaluated with a common garden experiment in a greenhouse. The abundance of the invasive C. franchetiiwas highest at the lower elevations while the native P. australis was more abundant at the upper part of the altitudinal gradient. Both species seemed to share habitat preferences since both showed highest frequencies of occurrence in the same habitats (i.e. topographies less exposed to climate harshness and disturbance and with higherwater availability). In regard to the functional attributes, C. franchetii presented a more conservative functional strategy than P. australisalong the complete altitudinal gradient 6(i.e.,C. franchetii acquires and liberates nutrients at a slower rate than the native species). Moreover, water-use strategy of the invasive species was safer in comparison with that of the native species (i.e.,C. franchetii stems can maintain water flux even at low water potentials, avoiding xylem cavitation, at the expense of less efficient flux). Both species hadsimilar levels of intraspecific variability of functional traits. However, in P. australisintra specific variability patterns were associated with both environmental gradients (the altitudinal and local one) while for invasive C. franchetiisuch association was not observed. Additionally, intraspecific variability in functional traits were correlated with fitness variables in both species: mainly in terms of growth in P. australisand in terms of reproduction in C. franchetii. Notably, despite C. franchetii functional attributes appeared poorly adjusted to the studied environmental gradients, this invasive species presented higher fitness than the native throughout the altitudinal gradient. The common garden experiment showed that phenotypic plasticity was the main driver of functional traits intraspecific variability in both species. Overall, results suggest that C. francheti iinvasion is recent in the study area and that the invasive success is not triggered by a close adjustment of its functional attributes to environmental gradients, even when the variability is mainly drivenby plasticity. On the contrary, a more conservative resource-use strategy and a safer water-use strategy along with a higher performance in comparison with native P. australis,would allow C. franchetii to stablish in a variety of environmental conditions in a generally restrictive ecosystem. These high performance and broad environmental tolerance,in addition to the similar habitat preference of the native P. australis, suggest an increasing spread of this invader in these mountains and an additional threat to the already retreated high mountain woodlands. Fil: Ferrero, María Cecilia. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal; Argentina

Published
2018

29. [Woody species composition in invaded communities from mountains of central Argentina: their relations with local environmental factors].

Author

Zeballos SR, Tecco PA, Cabido M, and Gurvich DE

Subjects
Argentina, Ecosystem, Forests, Introduced Species, Wood growth & development
Abstract

Invasions by exotic woody species are threatening ecosystem functions worldwide. The spread and subsequent replacement of native forest by exotic dominated stands is particularly evident nearby urban centers were exotic propagule pressure is highest. Yet, there is a lack of information on the environmental factors that underlie these replacements. In this study we addressed the following questions: (1) is there a local spatial segregation between the dominant native and exotic woody species? and (2) if this local segregation does exist, is it driven by environmental features? For this, in 2010 we established 31 plots distributed along 16 sampling sites where we surveyed the composition and abundance of all woody species with a basal diameter ≥ 5 cm. To characterize the environment of each plot, we measured the topographic position (slope, exposure) and different properties such as soil physics (bulk density, soil impedance), structure (soil deep, texture) and chemical characteristics (pH, nutrient and water content). Through a cluster analysis we were able to identify five different woody communities in coexistence: (1) Woodlands dominated by the exotic Ligustrum lucidum; (2) Mixed woodlands dominated by the native Lithraea molleoides and the exotic Celtis australis; (3) Scrublands dominated by the native Condalia buxifolia; (4) Scrublands dominated by the exotic Cotoneaster glaucophyllus, and (5) Scrubby grasslands with the exotic Pyracantha angustifolia. These communities were all associated with different local topographic and edaphic features. The environmental segregation among the identified communities suggests that woody invaders have the potential to colonize almost all the environments of the study site (though varying in the identity of the dominant exotic species). The observed patterns, even being restricted to a single well invaded area of mountain Chaco, may posit the spread of woody invaders towards native communities in the region.

Published
2014

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