Effects of fire on germination and growth of campo sujo leguminous field seedlings

Abstract

Fire is an important ecological factor, being present in Cerrado for million of years. The effect of fire on the germination of native species in Cerrado vegetation is not well-studied and it is hypothesized that flammable ecosystems will have species influenced by fire on their germination, related to the exposure to high temperatures (break of dormancy, resistance to high temperatures) and smoke (stimulation to germination). We also hypothesize that growth rate, allocation of biomass of seedlings and seed traits will be influenced by fire. Therefore, we aim to evaluate seed and seedling traits of legume species in campo sujo of Cerrado. We will measure the following seed traits: seed shape, seed mass (mg), water content (%), permeability (%) and resistance to high temperatures (100 and 200ºC). These traits will be incorporated in the Cerrado Seed Trait Database. Three species of legumes will be chosen (different growth forms) to produce seedlings and the following measures will be carried out: a) plant height (cm), b) length of the belowground organ (cm), c) dry weight of aerial and belowground parts (mg). The results will contribute to a better understanding of the fire effects on vegetation and also provide information for restoration efforts of Cerrado degraded areas and the production of seedlings of native species.