Plant species variation across path ecotones in a variety of common vegetation types

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of prolonged recreational disturbance on vegetation structure. Therefore, plant species variation along trails was determined in some common vegetation types of Flanders (Belgium). The study sites included two forest types, one grassland and one heathland. Inventory was conducted in transects perpendicular to trail centre. Field data on frequency, percent cover and multiple habitat variables were collected in the path, transition and undisturbed zones of the respective transects. In order to determine plant response groups in relation to recreational disturbances, distribution of plant species across paths was linked with their respective life form and plant strategy. Generally, species diversity increased towards the trail centre. The intensity of soil compaction was highly correlated with species cover and composition. Since soil compaction is interrelated with other aspects of the biotic and abiotic environment, it is clear that trampling exerts multiple stress on vegetation.