Germination and growth strategies of alpine plant species at the limits of plant growth
Alpine ecosystems are considered to be particularly sensitive to climate change as they are mainly driven by temperatures and snow cover. Due to the ongoing climate change, species ranges are expected to expand. In alpine environments displacements of high altitude species by migrating lowland species were predicted. Monitoring programs (such as GLORIA) are concerned with the observation of these changes. However, also experimental approaches are needed to clarify the potential of species migration and to evaluate the survival abilities of the species beyond their present distribution ranges.
Research Questions
Are high altitude species able to adapt to new environmental conditions?
What are the most sensitive life history stages and traits constraining high altitude species ranges?
Do unfavourable maternal environment effects reduce offspring vigour preventing successful establishment beyond the actual distribution ranges?
Funding Wissenschaftlich-Technische Zusammenarbeit (WTZ) Österreich-Tschechische Republik (2010-2011)
Personnel involved Erich Schwienbacher Jürgen Hacker Silvia Marcante Roland Mayer Brigitta Erschbamer
Cooperation Jiri Doležal, Institute of Botany, Czech Academy of Science, Pruhonice Jitka Klimešová, Institute of Botany, Czech Academy of Science, Trebon Miroslav Dvorsky Zuzana Chlumská Petr Macek
