Annual plants in arid and semi-arid desert regions

Abstract

Annual plants are the main vegetation in arid and semi-arid desert regions. Because of their unique traits, they are the optimal experimental subjects for ecological studies. In this article, we summarize annual plants’ seed germination strategies, seedling adaptability mechanism to environments, seed dispersal, and soil seed banks. We also discuss the biotic and abiotic factors affecting the composition and dynamics of annual plant populations and communities. Because annual plants have important ecological functions in desert vegetation systems, this study on annual plants will be of great benefit to the conservation and restoration of desert ecosystems, the rational utilization of resources, and the sustainable development of desert regions.

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