Author(s)

C. Robles, T. Dutoit & G. Benin

Abstract

Cistus are Mediterranean shrubs which are obligate seeders. Their germination is stimulated by fire. After this perturbation, these form pure dense stands which persist for about fifteen years, this period corresponds to the life time of the individuals. So far, shrubland decay was always awarded to the non population renewal, due to the low germination rates observed without heat stimulation. For one of these species: Cistus albidas L., we have researched to ascertain if an autotoxic phenomenon could also act on the disappearance. We have realised two types of bioassays on C. albidas seeds: one with C. albidas leachates and the other with essential oils. We have studied th

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