Vegetation Succession on the 1986 Lava Flows

In the area of the 1986 lava flow, the early stages of primary plant succession can be observed. About one year after the eruption, we observed a Reynoutria japonica growing on bare ground.

Reynoutria japonica seeds are spread by the strong winds typical of the island and become established by sending their long roots down deep into the ground through gaps in the lava. The long roots penetrate the lava and settle deep underground, where they form a soil with their own leaves, which is then invaded by Miscanthus sinensis, a typical form of vegetation recovery on the island.

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