Time-declining potential of aquatic plant recovery from the propagule banks of lake sediments

Abstract

Lake sediments containing propagule banks are recognised as key materials to regenerate aquatic plants that have disappeared from above-ground vegetation. However, the propagules in sediments are lost over time, likely reducing the potential of plant recovery from propagule banks. This study explored the relationship between the recovery of vegetation from lake sediments and the time after disappearance from above-ground vegetation at Lake Kasumigaura (Nishiura) and Lake Inbanuma, Japan. The possibility of restoration from sediments decreases exponentially over time, and restoration becomes particularly difficult 40-50 years after disappearance from above-ground vegetation. Therefore, conservation of propagule banks should be a priority when restoring lake ecosystems.