Structure and Dynamics of Calluna Vulgaris on Sand Dunes in South Sweden

Abstract

Age structure, biomass, and productivity in three differently aged Calluna heaths at different distances from the sea were studied in a sand dune area at Sandhammaren, S. Sweden. A method for measuring above ground production, based on only one sampling occasion was used. The phased developmental pattern of Calluna, as originally defined by Watt was not valid in the study area. A continuous rejuvenation of above ground biomass occurred through successive embedding and frequent adventitious rooting of trailing stems, and in spite of age of the heaths, no marked differences in age structure was found between the studied sites. The above ground biomass was assumed to be in a steady state, in conformity with what occurs in certain heaths on peat. The successive accumulation of organic matter is defined in a simple model, based on an assumedly unchanged between-year production.