Fire intensity, seasonal variation and seeds traits may influence seed fates in Banksia woodlands

Abstract

This thesis presents a multifaceted approach to understanding seed survival during fire. I considered seed survival of high temperatures in the context of seed moisture content, soil temperature, and seed depth in the soil profile. I identified several seed traits associated with seed survival and seedling emergence depth. I modelled seasonal variation and interactions between these traits, fuel dynamics and soil temperatures to identify conditions and periods for burning that minimise risk of seed mortality.