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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Unravelling intricate interactions among atmospheric bromeliads with highly overlapping niches in seasonal systems

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Author(s):
Chaves, C. J. N. [1] ; Rossatto, D. R. [1, 2]
Total Authors: 2
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Estadual Paulista Unesp, Inst Biociencias, Programa Posgrad Ecol & Biodiversidade, BR-13506900 Rio Claro - Brazil
[2] Univ Estadual Paulista Unesp, Fac Ciencias Agr & Vet, Dept Biol, Jaboticabal - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 2
Document type: Journal article
Source: Plant Biology; v. 22, n. 2, p. 243-251, MAR 2020.
Web of Science Citations: 0
Abstract

Biotic and abiotic interactions are important factors that explain community assembly. For example, epiphytic communities are shaped by tree traits that can act as environmental filters, but also by positive and/or negative interactions among coexisting epiphytes on a tree. Here, we studied interactions among three widespread atmospheric bromeliads with overlapping niches (Tillandsia recurvata, T. tricholepis and T. pohliana), using experimental data about facilitation through seed capture, interspecific interaction during seed germination and competition among adult individuals. We aim to understand how species interactions are reflected in the natural coexisting patterns of epiphytes in communities at high and low tree densities. Tillandsia pohliana showed higher facilitation by capturing almost all wind-dispersing seeds, and had the largest reduction in seed germination in the presence of any adult individual, also presenting a relatively high rate of adult mortality in the presence of other individuals. Our results indicate higher colonisation ability for T. pohliana and distinct strategies of rapid exploitation of T. recurvata and T. tricholepis individuals. In natural communities, the coexistence among atmospheric bromeliads may be hampered by dispersal limitations in wind-dispersed epiphytes at high tree density conditions, but a negative effect of T. recurvata on T. pohliana is still reflected in their reduced coexistence. However, competitive patterns observed in the experimental data may be overshadowed by a possible mass effect driving large communities under such conditions. Our results show the joint effect of positive interactions and high dispersal levels on the community patterns of atmospheric bromeliads. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 16/04396-4 - COMMUNITIES DOMINATED BY ATMOSPHERIC BROMELIADS AS A MODEL FOR METACOMMUNITIES STUDIES
Grantee:Cleber Juliano Neves Chaves
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate