Demographic Processes Allow Echinochloa crus-galli to Compensate Seed Losses by Seed Predation

The effect of weed management that targets the seed stage on subsequent life stages is largely unknown. Post-dispersal predation reduces number seeds from soil surface before contribute to seedbank. Density-dependent processes can mitigate in stages. In this study, we tested if (i) targeting affects seedling stage; (ii) density-dependent mortality partly compensates abundance; and (iii) magnitude final production depends predation. We fully parameterized a model for summer-annual Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv. Field data three maize fields north-eastern Germany were obtained, presence or absence different population levels species. Seeds E. applied autumn seedlings, adult plants, per m2 was determined following season. Seed reduced seedlings. during increased fecundity with decreasing density, and, thus, compensated lower numbers level did not depend initial densities, but differed among fields. conclude, solely scarcely limit growth crus-galli.