Seed bank size and distribution of seeds in cottongrass tussock tundra, Eagle Creek, Alaska

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Abstract
Soil from cottongrass (Eriophorum vaginatum) tussock tundra at Eagle Creek, Alaska, was analyzed with respect to the distribution, abundance, and germination patterns of buried viable seeds. Seeds of Carex bigelowii, Eriophorum vaginatum, and Ledum palustre were abundant. Smaller amounts of Empetrum nigrum and Betula spp. were also present. Buried seeds were found to 21 cm below the soil surface. Germination was rapid in the first 3 weeks of exposure to greenhouse conditions and continued at a slower rate for 5 more weeks. The ecological importance of seed banks in arctic regions and their possible implications for management of cotton-grass tussock tundra vegetation are discussed.