Beiträge zur Populationsbiologie der Silberdistel (Carlina acaulis L.): 4. Beitrag zur Wuchsform und Biologie der Gefäßpflanzen des hercynischen Raumes

Abstract

NICKSTADT, A.; JÄGER, E. J.: Contribution to the population biology of Carlina acaulis L.- Hercynia N. F. 33 (2000): 245-256. The life history, saisonal development and population dynamics of Carlina acaulis L., a plant protected by law in Germany and endaugered in many parts of the country, were investigated in 1997- 1999 at 12 sites in Central Germany. The rate of seedling emergence is very low, and seedlings establish only rarely. The longevity is at least 50 years. The first flowering depends on a minimal va!ue of leaf area. Young generative plants usually remain vegetative in the year after first flowering. The population growth is enhanced by pasture, although the young flower heads are browsed by sheep and goat and the rosettes are damaged by trampling. But the plant is able to regenerate easily from root suckers. The main threat for the plant is a high closure of herb vegetation. Under these conditions, the development of high flowering shoots, !arge flower heads and long leaves is not a sign of high fitness.