Respiratory and physiological characteristics in subpopulations of Great Basin cheatgrass

V. Wallace McCarlie; Lee D. Hansen; Bruce Smith

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Respiratory and physiological characteristics in subpopulations of Great Basin cheatgrass

Informally Refereed

Authors:

V. Wallace McCarlie, Lee D. Hansen, Bruce Smith

Year:

2001

Type:

Proceedings

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

Source:

In: McArthur, E. Durant; Fairbanks, Daniel J., comps. Shrubland ecosystem genetics and biodiversity: proceedings; 2000 June 13-15; Provo, UT. Proc. RMRS-P-21. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 271-275.

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Abstract

Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.) is a dominant weed that has increased the frequency of wildfire in the Great Basin since its introduction approximately 106 years ago. Characteristics of respiratory metabolism were examined in eleven subpopulations from different habitats. Seeds from each subpopulation were germinated (4mm radicle) and metabolic heat rates (q) and respiration rates (RCO2) determined calorimetrically at 5 °C intervals from 5 to 30 °C or from 5 to 45 °C. From the experimental data, growth rates and ratios of q/RCO2 (a measure of efficiency) were calculated. In general, growth rate increases from a low temperature limit of 3 to 7 °C to an upper temperature limit between 27 to 31 °C. Beyond these limits growth ceases. These limits differ among subpopulations, and are related to the native microclimate.

Parent Publication

Shrubland ecosystem genetics and biodiversity: proceedings

Keywords

wildland shrubs, genetics, biodiversity, disturbance, ecophysiology, community ecology

Citation

McCarlie, V. Wallace; Hansen, Lee D.; Smith, Bruce N. 2001. Respiratory and physiological characteristics in subpopulations of Great Basin cheatgrass. In: McArthur, E. Durant; Fairbanks, Daniel J., comps. Shrubland ecosystem genetics and biodiversity: proceedings; 2000 June 13-15; Provo, UT. Proc. RMRS-P-21. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 271-275.