Submitted by Eleanor Campbell on Tue, 09/08/2011 - 14:25
Latin name:
Pteridophytes
Impact Type: Deposition of pollutant
Key Concerns:
Ferns may be susceptible to damage by acid deposition which can inhibit reproduction (spore germination)(Ashenden et al. 1990 , Bosley et al. 1998, Conway 1949, and Lawrence & Ashenden 1993. Below pH 3.5 negative effects on spore germination in Polypodium interjection, Dryopteris affinis and Phyllitis scolopendrium have been observed.
Additional Comments:
It is possible that Dryopteris affinis is less susceptible to acid deposition compared to other fern species (Lawrence & Ashenden 1993). Acid deposition may confer a positive advantage to bracken in competition with other species since it favours vegetative propagation via underground rhizomes.
Critical Load/level:
Critical Load/ Level |
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No estimate available |
References:
1990
Effects of nitrogen dioxide pollution on the growth of 3 fern species.
Environmental Pollution
66
301-308
1999
The resistance of the moss Polytrichum commune to acute exposure of simulated acid rain or ozone compared to two fern species: Spore germination
Bryologist
101
512-518
1993
Effects of acidic gases and mists on the reproductive capability of 3 fern species
Environmental Pollution
79
267-270
Species group:
Pollutant: