Dynamics of Associations Between Plants in Ten Old Fields During 31 Years of Succession

The pattern of significant associations between plants was examined in ten old fields during 31 years of succession by calculating rank correlations for species pairs in each old field during each sample year. Three hypotheses were tested concerning the dynamics of species interactions through succession, and correspondence was explored between the pattern of association and published results from field and glasshouse experiments. The proportion, number and level of significance of associations between plants all declined with time. Annuals and biennials had a higher portion of significant associations and more positive associations than perennial species (...)