Protocol considerations for aquatic plant seed bank assessment

摘要

Many procedures have been developed to assess seed bank characteristics, and most can be grouped into either of 2 categories: seedling emergence assays or seed separation from substrate. These procedures are particularly useful in predicting vegetation recurrence and determining need for restoration or control strategies through estimates of seed bank attributes (e.g., species composition, density, distribution, and viability). However, due to the lack of a standard protocol for seed bank investigations, researchers must select appropriate methods based on knowledge of different techniques and their potential to accomplish research goals. Here, we review a range of procedures for aquatic/wetland seed bank assessment with regard to difficulty in use, test reliability and accuracy, and laboratory resource (time, space, and labor) requirements. Information to improve sample collection and analysis is provided, and research to enhance seed/seedling identification and knowledge of germination requirements is advised.