Review
Version 1
Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed
Bilberry Encroachment in the Changing Subalpine Belt
Version 1
: Received: 30 August 2024 / Approved: 1 September 2024 / Online: 2 September 2024 (11:36:03 CEST)
How to cite: Zeidler, M.; Banaš, M. Bilberry Encroachment in the Changing Subalpine Belt. Preprints 2024, 2024090041. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202409.0041.v1 Zeidler, M.; Banaš, M. Bilberry Encroachment in the Changing Subalpine Belt. Preprints 2024, 2024090041. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202409.0041.v1
Abstract
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) encroachment in subalpine and alpine ecosystems is increasing due to climate change and reduced land management. This review examines bilberry traits, environmental responses, and ecosystem impacts. As a stress-tolerant chamaephyte, bilberry thrives in acidic, nutrient-poor soils across various habitats. It propagates effectively through rhizomes and demonstrates a phalanx growth form. Bilberry's growth and distribution are influenced by elevation, soil structure, pH, water availability, and nitrogen content. Mycorrhizal associations play a crucial role in nutrient uptake. The species modifies microclimate, facilitates litter accumulation, and influences soil microbial communities, affecting nutrient turnover and biodiversity. Bilberry shows moderate tolerance to herbivory and frost, with the ability to recover through rapid emergence of new ramets. However, severe or repeated disturbances can significantly impact its abundance and reproductive success. Climate warming and atmospheric nitrogen deposition have accelerated bilberry growth in treeline ecotones. Management of bilberry encroachment requires a nuanced approach, considering its resilience, historical land-use changes, and environmental factors. The goal should be to limit, not eliminate, bilberry as it's a natural part of subalpine communities. Long-term comparative monitoring and experimental manipulation are necessary for effective management strategies.
Keywords
shrubification bilberry; Vaccinium myrtillus; subalpine; mountains; plant traits; habitat
Subject
Environmental and Earth Sciences, Ecology
Copyright: This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comments (0)
We encourage comments and feedback from a broad range of readers. See criteria for comments and our Diversity statement.
Leave a public commentSend a private comment to the author(s)
* All users must log in before leaving a comment