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"Nutrient limitation" is a universal theme, though with
doubtful relevance to ecology unless treated with care. It will be demonstrated
that early as well as late successional alpine vegetation respond with
dramatic growth stimulation when nutrients are added, but this leads
to a complete removal of the original plant community, hence nutrients
cannot be considered "limiting" if the removal of limitation
is fatal to most species. This insight will help us understand both natural as well as
anthropogenically influenced nutrient regimes. Aspects of litter decomposition,
nutrient uptake, the role of legumes and nutrient consumption strategies
will be discussed.
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