Sphagnum distribution patterns along environmental gradients in Bulgaria
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2007 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | Journal of Bryology |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Field | Ecology |
| Keywords | Balkans; ecological demands; fens; mineral richness; mires; niche diversification; groundwater |
| Description | The distribution patterns of 18 Sphagnum species along base-richness and altitudinal gradients were studied in Bulgarian treeless wetlands. Of 483 spring and mire sites studied, 202 samples contained some Sphagnum species. The significance of Sphagnum responses to environmental gradients was tested by comparing generalized additive models against the null model. Many Sphagnum species displayed a significant response to the altitudinal gradient. Several species were clearly linked to low or to high altitudes, but the realized niche of other species was wide with respect to altitude. Most species significantly responded to water pH, both above and below the timberline. Only a few species had a significant response to conductivity above the timberline. |
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