GERMINATION RESPONSE OF DIMORPHIC SEEDS (Atriplex sagittata) TO SOIL BURIAL DEPTH AND LITTER ACCUMULATION
Absztrakt
Seed dimorphism often reflects adaptive strategies by plants. Atriplex sagittata, exhibits dimorphic seeds, with distinct small and large morphotypes. However, limited research has addressed how soil burial depth and litter cover affect germination and establishment of dimorphic seeds, particularly considering their morphotypic variations. Germination rates, seedling height, and seedling biomass were measured to evaluate the effects of soil burial depth, litter cover, and interaction effects on seedling establishment. Soil burial depth predominantly influenced seedling height and biomass, particularly in large-seeded morphotypes, while litter cover specifically impacted germination rate. Interaction effects between soil burial depth and litter cover were non-significant, indicating limited combined effects on seedling establishment. This study highlights the significant influence of soil burial depth and seed size on seedling establishment in A. sagittata, with larger seeds exhibiting greater susceptibility to variations in burial depth. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the ecological implications of soil burial depth and litter cover on seed germination and seedling establishment in A. sagittata, emphasizing the importance of considering morphotypic variations in ecological restoration efforts.