Date of Award:
5-1982
Document Type:
Thesis
Degree Name:
Master of Science (MS)
Department:
Wildland Resources
Department name when degree awarded
Range Science
Committee Chair(s)
Cyrus M. McKell
Committee
Cyrus M. McKell
Committee
Ray Brown
Committee
Doug Johnson
Committee
Jim Richardson
Abstract
Four populations of Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) Beauv (a Poaceae species), growing on disturbed and undisturbed sites at Climax, Colorado, were examined for metal tolerances (Zn, Cu, Pb, Al). Root growth assessments on parent plant and offspring material for each population were conducted using nutrient solutions containing elevated levels of Zn, Cu, Pb, or Al. Seed germination and seedling survival tests for each population were conducted on both alpine topsoil and mine spoil material.
Evidence is presented that supports the hypothesis that ecotypic variation exists within Deschampsia caespitosa and that this variation has allowed certain Deschampsia populations to become successfully established on alpine mine spoils. Acid mine spoil populations showed significantly less root growth retardation in the presence of zinc, copper or aluminum.
Checksum
8020a694e6abde8f29268254a81d23fc
Recommended Citation
Pratt, Paul Ellsworth, "An Evaluation of Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) Beauv Populations for Metal Tolerances and Ecotypic Variation at Climax, Colorado" (1982). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023. 6352.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/6352
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