Natural regeneration and succession — results from a 13 years study with reference to mesofauna and vegetation, and implications for management

Succession of soil mesofauna and vegetation has been studied since 1980 on two experimental plots, one left for undisturbed succession, the other managed as a lawn until 1987 (thereafter ruderalization). Samples of soil mesofauna have been taken every 3 months. The results show the successional dynamics of soil mesofauna taxa and their abundances both at group and species levels (Acari, Mesostigmata: Gamasina) for a period of 13 years, and may be compared to those of the vegetation. Recultivation accelerates colonisation and leads to increased abundances. Although above- and below-ground plant structure influence the development of soil mesofauna, their dynamics are not synchronised. Gamasina communities of the recultivated and successional site diverge with time. Restoration management should consider processes in the soil, e.g. by allowing or introducing patchiness.