Effect of gap size and regeneration niche on species coexistence in bryophyte communities

Abstract

Relative abundance of the two species varies with availability of the appropriate regeneration niche, which is a function of the local disturbance regime. Rodent activity may both produce the gaps favored by D. flagellare and facilitate its dispersal to them. Dominance of T. pellucida is associated with larger gaps produced by decay. The interaction of the regeneration niche and the disturbance regime are found to be primary determinants of community structure on this unstable substrate.