Monks tonsure-like gaps in the tussock grass Spartina argentinensis (Gramineae)

Lewis, J. P.; Stofella, S. L.; Feldman, S. R.

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Revista de Biología Tropical

On-line version ISSN 0034-7744Print version ISSN 0034-7744

Abstract

LEWIS, J. P.; STOFELLA, S. L. and FELDMAN, S. R.. Monks tonsure-like gaps in the tussock grass Spartina argentinensis (Gramineae). Rev. biol. trop [online]. 2001, vol.49, n.1, pp.313-316. ISSN 0034-7744.

Monk's tonsure-like gaps develop inside gramineans and other plants. The tonsures of Spartina argentinensis originate as a result of tussock development and disturbance. As the tonsure develops the ring of tillers around it breakes down and new tussocks develop from the fragments, regenerating the grassland matrix vegetatively. The microenvironment inside the tonsure is different from the surroundings and microhabitat-specific taxa grow there.

Keywords : Chaco; gaps; grasses; grasslands; matrix regeneration; pampa; disturbance; regeneration niche; savannas; Spartina argentinensis; tussocks.

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