Fire Affects Ecophysiology and Community Dynamics of Central Wisconsin Oak Forest Regeneration

• DOI: 10.2307/1938631
• Publication Date: 2006-05-09T14:51:12Z
• Authors: Peter B. Reich; Marc D. Abrams; David S. Ellsworth; Eric L. Kruger; Tom J. Tabone
• Keywords: Ecophysiology; Prescribed burn; Fire regime

In order to understand better the ecophysiological differences among competing species that might influence competitive interactions after, or in absence of, fire, we examined response fire of four sympatric woody found intermediate—sized gaps a 3—yr—old mixed oak forest central Wisconsin. Selected blocks were burned April 1987 by low—intensity controlled surface fire. The had significant effects during following growing season on community structure, foliar nutrient concentrations, and photosynthesis. Acer rubrum seedling density declined 70% while percent cover increased several—fold Rubus allegheniensis. general, leaf concentrations N, P, K all species, although relative enhancement decreased as progressed. Daily maximum photosynthetic rates 30—50% higher than unburned sites for Prunus serotina, Quercus ellipsoidalis, R. allegheniensis, but did not differ between treatments A. rubrum. Mean sunlit conductances stimulated burn with greatest photosynthesis measured Q. ellipsoidalis. Leaf gas exchange allegheniensis was most sensitive declining water potential elevated vapor pressure gradient, ellipsoidalis least sensitive. Fire no discernable effect status these plants year relatively high rainfall. comparison other seedlings responded negatively after fire–both terms survival/reproduction (decline number individuals) physiological performance. enhanced abundance performance P. particularly We conclude post—fire stimulation net conductance largely result N species.