ISSN:
1573-5052
Keywords:
Aldabra
;
Atoll
;
Markovian model
;
Succession
;
Tortolse grazing
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract The process of succession after release from grazing by giant tortoises was investigated in three different vegetation types on Aldabra atoll. After four years there was very little change in two vegetation types: a tall mixed scrubland and an open single-species grassland. Probably in the former case grazing had no effect and in the latter case soil nutrients were limiting sward growth and establishment. In the third vegetation type, a patchwork of scrub and low vegetation, analysis of transition matrices showed that the succession was non-independent, non-stationary and depended on more than one past state (high order). This succession was extrapolated by simulation. The results suggested that other vegetation types studied were discrete associations, not merely different stages in the same grazing-mediated sere. The transition matrix approach proved useful in helping to generate initial hypotheses, but became too cumbersome for a realistic model of this succession. An experimental approach will be better for dealing with problems identified from the transition models. We are extremely grateful to the staff of the Seychelles Islands Foundation and of their Aldabra Research Station for permission to work on the island and for their assistance in the field.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00044990
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