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Evolution in the novel environment of restored habitats

Restoration of terrestrial ecosystems often requires re-introduction of plants. In restored sites, the plants often face environments that differ from those of natural populations. This can affect plant traits, reduce performance and impose novel selection pressures. As a response, restored populations might rapidly evolve and adapt to the novel conditions. This may enhance population survival and contribute to restoration success, but has been rarely tested so far. We focuse on populations of grassland species restored 20 years ago by the transfer of green hay, and compare them with donor populations that were the source of the hay. So far, we have documented rapid differentiation in two species, Galium witrgenii and Inula salicina.

People: Lea Klepka, Anna Bucharova

Publications: 

Bucharova A. Conrady M., Klein-Raufhake T., Rathka V., Schultz F., Hölzel N. (2024): Rapid evolution of flower phenology and clonality in restored populations of multiple grassland species. Journal of Applied Ecology 61: 836-846. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14600