Theory 50/Tropical Rainforest/Lianas
Lianas Follow Disturbance
The claim
Liana dominance increases above a threshold in canopy disturbance, because lianas exploit gaps faster than trees can close them.
01Mechanism
Lianas grow rapidly in high light and climb established stems; repeated disturbance favours them over tree regeneration.
02Prediction
Liana cover should track disturbance frequency.
03Refutation
Liana cover tracking rainfall would remove disturbance.