Herb assemblage dynamics over seven years in different cocoa production systems

Abstract Both agronomic practices and spatial position can determine the assemblage of herbaceous species. We assess dynamics contribution these two aspects over time to herb assemblages different cocoa production systems. Braun-Blanquet surveys were performed seven years in a long-term trial Bolivia compare systems: successional agroforestry (SA) with no external inputs, organic (OA) monoculture (OM), both including leguminous perennial cover crop, conventional (CA) (CM), where agrochemicals applied. Using general linear models multivariate analysis we found that mainly driven by only at beginning. After this, very dynamic selection process related management took place, which became more stable years. observed decline species CA OA systems, due loss heliophilous low number new established them. The OM presented most conservative pattern, lowest lost, presence crop. intensively managed system (CM) diverse least intensive one had highest recorded time, led highly specialized assemblages, worldwide distributed herbicide resistant first case secondary forest species, second. conclude promotion especially divers sytems would favour high conservation value prevent establishment globally