Influence of tephra deposition on mire vegetation in Hokkaido, Japan

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Volcanic eruptions significantly affect vegetation, particularly through explosive blasts and lava flows, but the distal effects remain underexplored. Following large eruptions, fine-grained volcanic particles, or tephra, cover extensive areas. This research investigates the impact of tephra on mire vegetation in Hokkaido, northern Japan. Stratigraphical and experimental studies were conducted to assess how tephra deposition influences vegetation across various spatial and temporal scales. Peat and sediment cores were collected from six distinct mires, and macrofossil analysis was utilized to identify vegetation changes associated with tephra layers during the Holocene. Field experiments at Sarobetsu Mire tested the effects of artificial tephra layers of varying thickness and grain size on a Sphagnum lawn community. Additionally, a separate experiment examined nutrient limitations for Sphagna and vascular plants. Findings indicate that tephra thickness primarily dictates vegetation response, with grain size and season also influencing outcomes. Contrary to previous assumptions, the long-term effects of tephra deposition appear less significant, as no substantial vegetation changes were observed at the tephra layers.