SFRC-87/03 Old Field Succession in Everglades National Park
Krauss P. 1987. SFRC-87/03 Old Field Succession in Everglades National Park. SFRC 87/03. South Florida Natural Resources Center. Homestead, Florida
A characterization of successional vegetation patterns on abandoned farmland in the Hole-in-the-Donut area of Everglades National park was performed. Vegetative community composition and structure was examined in detail in 21 study plots located throughout the study site. Successional assemblages are described qualitatively and quantitatively. Distinct community types are defined using methods that emphasize site-to-site comparisons. The relationship between vegetation and substrate, farming history, hydroperiod, and spatial arrangement was examined. Results were used to summarize and predict trends of old field succession on abandoned farmland in southern Florida. Post-farming vegetation patterns do not resemble prefarming conditions. Successional forest, frequently dominated by exotic species, is a relatively new community in southern Florida. It is likely a final stage in secondary succession on abandoned farmland.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Krauss, Pamela
- Date of Issue
- 1987
- Publisher
- South Florida Natural Resources Center
- Units
- EVER , SFCN
- Keywords
- everglades, Old Field, SFNRCTRS, Succession