Living architecture and biological dispersal

Abstract

Many vegetative roof systems deliver biodiversity and conservation goals, but it may be less appreciated that roofs function as a nursery, exporting biological materials. Interestingly, we have observed one green roof performing two forms of plant dispersal, thus demonstrating the potential for vegetative roofs to offer nursery services to their surroundings. We describe the project, explain the dispersal strategies, provide a brief discussion, and define the terminology of terrestrial-roof link, agent dispersal, and self dispersal, in an effort to aid in understanding the nursery function of green roofs. Continuing and future research on the dispersal mechanisms of the roof are also briefly discussed