Seed and seedling traits have strong impacts on establishment of a perennial bunchgrass in invaded semi-arid systems

Elizabeth A. Leger; Daniel Z. Atwater; Jeremy J. James

doi:10.1111/1365-2664.13367

Treesearch

Seed and seedling traits have strong impacts on establishment of a perennial bunchgrass in invaded semi-arid systems

Formally Refereed

Authors:

Elizabeth A. Leger, Daniel Z. Atwater, Jeremy J. James

Year:

2019

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.13367

Source:

Journal of Applied Ecology. 56: 1343-1354

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Abstract

Many restoration projects use seeds to found new populations, and understanding phenotypic traits associated with seedling establishment in disturbed and invaded communities is important for restoration efforts world-wide. Focusing on the perennial grass Elymus elymoides, a native species common to sagebrush steppe communities in the Western United States, we asked if seed and seedling traits could predict field establishment.

Keywords

adaptation, Bromus tectorum, Elymus elymoides, functional traits, Great Basin, natural selection, restoration, wild populations

Citation

Leger, Elizabeth A.; Atwater, Daniel Z.; James, Jeremy J. 2019. Seed and seedling traits have strong impacts on establishment of a perennial bunchgrass in invaded semi-arid systems. Journal of Applied Ecology. 56: 1343-1354.