Past context and dynamics of the development of a Mediterranean peatland (Mont Aigoual, France)

A minerotrophic peatland (fen) located on Mont Aigoual (southern France) is investigated for both modern vegetation and fossil pollen. The site is shown to originate around 2300 cal. BP and to have been strongly influenced by agro-pastoral activities. The spread of nitrophilous and not-grazed plant communities, at the expense of hydrophilous ones, characterized the evolution of the site, even during the recent decline of agricultural activities. This study highlights the role of disturbance on the development of the Aigoual peatlands, and their present-day degradation status, and underlines the need of a well-adapted conservatory management.