The basis of my research project is the relationship between natural disturbances and species richness. The river creates a natural opening in the canopy that can be occupied by species not present within the thick cover of the Douglas fir dominated forest. The frequency and magnitude of flooding likely contribute to vegetation patterns in the adjacent communities. Natural disturbances can create gaps in the forest canopy, disturbances such as a fallen tree or the constant flowing water of a river. The species of trees that take advantage of this opening in the canopy are the point of interest in my research. The tolerance model of succession is relevant as the dominant tree species outcompetes within the forest where there isn’t constant disturbance from the river. Species that are more intolerant of competition have the opportunity to grow in the opening carved by the river. In addition to the increase in sunlight caused by this opening, some of the species that grow along the river appear to be tolerant to inundation. The change in species composition may be impacted by tolerance to shade and inundation. The increase in diversity along the riverbed may be an example of Connell’s intermediate disturbance hypothesis in which the highest diversity is maintained when the frequency and magnitude of disturbance is intermediate. The river has constant disturbance within its main channel while the floodplain is intermediately disturbed by flooding.
Keywords:
Tree species composition
Tolerance model
Intermediate disturbance hypothesis
A good start to the theoretical basis for your project and start to your introduction. You will not be able to tease apart flooding causing openings versus inundation. You can explore this in your introduction and discussion based on other research.