Population biology of two rare fern species: long-life and long-lasting stability

• Published in: American Journal of Botany
• Main Authors: Bucharová, A. (Anna), Münzbergová, Z., Tájek, P.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: 2010
• Subjects: ferns; life cycle; naturally rare species; Asplenium adulterinum
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.3732/ajb.0900351; http://hdl.handle.net/11104/0189265

The study species, Asplenium adulterinum and A. cuneifolium, are restricted to serpentine rocks and differ in ploidy level and partly in habitat requirements. Single life-history traits were evaluated and transition matrix models were used to describe the dynamics of the populations. Predicted population performance based on models was compared with real data on population growth. All populations of both species are growing. Stable stage distribution based on stochastic simulation corresponds to current stage distribution. The most critical phase of the life cycle is stasis of large adult plants. Extinction probability of small populations is low. When compared with real data, the model successfully predicted population performance over 10 yr. Populations in the study region are not endangered, and current population dynamics are stable.