‘Social distancing’ between plants may amplify coastal restoration at early stage

Ecological restoration is crucial to counteract the degradation of coastal ecosystems. Recent studies increasingly suggest that success can be amplified by harnessing positive interactions between individuals foundation species, with clumped spatial designs as an easy-to-implement approach. However, are strongly context dependent, making it often difficult tell a priori if configurations would necessarily enhance survival and growth. Another uncertainty relevance below-ground configuration remains unclear. Here, using clonal plant species Scirpus mariqueter material, we conducted full-factorial transplanting experiment mimicking short-term vegetation test for effects above-ground pattern (rhizome) connectance on efficiency. An unexpected finding patterns high rhizome resulted in lower efficiency Scirpus, reflected recolonization rates cover. Such effect was especially pronounced during early post-transplantation stage, robust both low wave-stressed conditions. Particularly, rate treatment only about half random regular treatments 4 weeks after transplantation. The stark contrast our results previous work may explained differences traits substantially shape net outcomes plant–plant interactions. Synthesis applications. Our situ flexible demonstrates higher extents distancing represented result In showing advantage restoration, optimal pursued through thoughtful manipulative field. highlights necessity considerations biotic attributes means interactions, advances applications facilitation theory ecological practices.