2026/02/01 by Amelia V. Stevens, Bree‐Ann Lautgier, Gemma L. Hoyle +4 · 1 voice
Agricultural and Biological Sciences · Environmental Science · #Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies #Plant Diversity and Evolution #Seed Germination and Physiology
paper · pdf · doi:10.1111/1442-1984.70044
openalex publication_date 2026/02/01 · openalex created_date 2026/02/03 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/22
Abstract Climate change in tropical montane cloud forest (TMCF) is predicted to impact species adapted to consistent, mild temperatures. We used a temperature gradient plate to investigate the effect of temperature on germination and early seedling survival of Dracophyllum sayeri (Ericaceae), a tree species endemic to TMCF in northeast Queensland, Australia. Despite a narrow distribution, results suggest that a wide range of temperatures is conducive to germination of D. sayeri , including up to 8°C higher than current temperatures. At higher temperatures, a day/night temperature amplitude of at least 5°C was required for optimal germination. In addition, germination was greater when seeds were exposed to natural diurnal light compared to constant darkness. Based on temperature, predictions under future climate conditions include a shift in peak germination from summer to winter/early spring. Results also suggest that D. sayeri has multiple strategies for maximizing germination in warm, alternating temperatures and light‐filled gaps, and possesses more acclimation potential to persist under a future climate than previously assumed.