Demography and Age Structure of a Central New York Shrub-Carr 94 Years After Fire

Abstract

This study describes the structure and composition of a shrub-carr in a weakly minerotrophic peatland, in Cicero Swamp Wildlife Management Area (CSWMA), 94 years after a severe fire. Total shrub density averaged 1.25 x 10(6) stems ha-1; total shrub basal area averaged 37.7 m2 ha-1. Total percentage cover for herbaceous and bryophyte species was 18.2% and 48%, respectively. The two dominant shrubs, Nemopanthus mucronata (L.) Trel. and Vaccinium corymbosum L., appear to greatly limit further colonization and growth of other woody and herbaceous species. Height-growth rates were determined for N. mucronata and V. corymbosum, for two growth phases, 0-1 m (early) and 1-2 m (late). Early height-growth of N. mucronata was greater than that of V. corymbosum. Height-growth rates generally decreased in older stems of both species. Height-growth of V. corymbosum was variable and related to stem age.