Variation in Propagule Supply and its Role in Kelp-Forest Regeneration

海带森林，全球潮下带温带珊瑚礁的主导， 经常经历相对频繁和不可预测的局部 灭绝和重新定居。这次调查是一个 继续对因果机制进行长期研究 导致潮下带海藻的大量流失和再生 社区. 海带数量迅速减少的原因 人口越来越清楚，允许他们的机制， 严重干扰后的快速恢复仍然很差 明白 该研究将采用实验室和现场实验 检查繁殖体供应的各个方面，促进 森林大面积丧失后的荒漠化。的主要领域 研究将涉及确定模式和环境原因， （1）成年植物产生的孢子数量的变化，（2） 孢子释放时间，（3）孢子质量，（4） 孢子供应的寿命。 这项研究将集中在两个物种上 海藻（Macrocystis pyrifera和Ptergophora加州）， 形成了潮下带珊瑚礁群落的大部分生源结构， 位于加州中部和南部。 这项研究很重要，因为 它探讨了再生过程的供应方， 在斑块动力学研究中，人们往往忽视了这一点。 它将填补一个 我们对复杂过程的认识存在重大差距， 成功招聘。 这种全面的方法是一种 必要的（但很少采取）步骤，以获得彻底的 了解管理海洋群落的机制。

Kelp forests, dominant of subtidal temperate reefs worldwide, often undergo relatively frequent and unpredictable local extinctions and recolonization. This investigation is a continuation of long-term research on the causal mechanisms producing widespread loss and regeneration of subtidal kelp communities. While the causes for the rapid decline of kelp populations are becoming clear, the mechanisms that allow for their rapid recovery following severe disturbance remain poorly understood. The research will use laboratory and field experiments to examine various aspects of propagule supply that promote recolonization following widespread forest loss. The major areas of study will involve determining patterns and environmental causes of variation in (1) the number of spores produced by adult plants, (2) the timing of spore release, (3) spore quality, and (4) the longevity of spore supply. The research will focus on two species of kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera and Pterygophora california) that form much of the biogenic structure of subtidal reef communities of central and southern California. The research is important because it explores the supply side of the regenerative process which has largely been ignored in studies of patch dynamics. It will fill an important gap in our knowledge of the complicated processes leading to successful recruitment. Such a comprehensive approach is a necessary (but rarely taken) step towards gaining a thorough understanding of the mechanisms that regulate marine communities.