Untersuchungen zur Mortalität von Empetrum nigrum (L.) und Calluna vulgaris (L.) Hull in Küstenheiden auf der Insel Sylt

In this study, the influence of abiotic and biotic factors on the mortality of Empetrum nigrum and Calluna vulgaris in coastal heaths on Sylt was investigated, as increased damage to the dwarf shrubs was observed after long dry periods. Vegetation records were used to explore whether this mortality has an influence on the species composition of the brown dunes. The results indicate that the vegetation of the coastal heaths could change significantly as a result of climate change due to drought damage of the dominant Ericaceae. Only continuous monitoring can show whether mortality promotes pioneer species in the long term or offers potential for invasive neophytes to spread.