Effects of tree cover, understory vegetation, and litter on regeneration of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) in southwestern Argentina

The factors and processes that regulate Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) natural regeneration in southwestern Argentina are unknown. We investigated (i) the germination responses of P. menziesii seeds to variations in the radiation and thermal environments imposed by canopy cover and litter, (ii) the effects of litter on seedling emergence, and (iii) the effects of understory vegetation on seedling performance and seed and seedling predation. Seed germination was high in darkness and under canopies. Under a combination of canopy types and litter covers, germination showed a negative correlation with temperature between 23 and 40 degrees C. Germination was not altered by changes in red/far-red ratio. These results suggest that the presence of an overstory canopy promotes P. menziesii seed germination compared with a no-canopy situation (e.g., a clearcut). Litter inhibited seedling emergence by reducing water availability and by acting as a mechanical barrier. Understory vegetation (established saplings) reduced seedling growth and survival. However, our results suggest that direct competition between seedlings and understory vegetation is not the principal force regulating regeneration; indirect effects appear to be of paramount importance because P. menziesii seed and seedling consumption (presumably by rodents) is greatly encouraged by the presence of dense vegetation patches in the understory.