Functions of canopy-stored seeds in the dune ecosystem: conclusions from Agriophyllum squarrosum and Artemisia wudanica

Abstract

Delay in seed release is found in the dune ecosystem. However, its functions have been rarely reported. We studied delayed seed release in the Agriophyllum squarrosum (Chenopodiaceae), an annual psammophyte, and the Artemisia wudanica (Asteraceae), a psammophilous subshrub in an active sand dune field in Inner Mongolia, China, to get insights into its functions in dealing with sand movement. We concluded that delay in seed release in the dune ecosystem are as follows: (1) postponing dispersal of a portion of seeds until the end of windy season and the start of growing season; (2) regulating the spatiotemporal pattern of seed bank; (3) helping psammophytes adapt to wind erosion on the active sand dune; and (4) helping psammophytes realize long-distance dispersal.

Key words： sand movement; psammophytes; persistent soil seed; germination; seedling emergence