Genetic Variation Within and Among Populations of Draba asterophora (Brassicaceae) in Lake Tahoe Nevada

Authors

Danny Nielsen, Brigham Young University
Dr. Loreen Allphin, Brigham Young University

Keywords

genetic variation, Draba asterophora, Brassicaceae. Lake Tahoe

College

Life Sciences

Department

Plant and Wildlife Sciences

Abstract

The rare endemic Lake Tahoe Draba (Draba asterophora) plant is under threat of extinction due to completed and proposed grating of ski runs on two ski resorts near Lake Tahoe where this species is located. This is of concern to both the US Forest Service and the two ski resorts, and they are cooperating to study this issue. In correspondence with the Forest Service, Dr. Allphin and I have conducted studies with this plant from three isolated clusters in order to determine the potential ecological consequences of this proposed grating, and whether or not certain subpopulations of the species can be eliminated while allowing the persistence of surrounding populations and moreover the preservation of the species as a whole. These three clusters are Mount Rose, Heavenly and Southwestern. The findings of this study have increased understanding of how rare isolated plant populations with restricted gene flow and high degrees of endemism respond to human disturbance.

Recommended Citation

Nielsen, Danny and Allphin, Dr. Loreen (2013) "Genetic Variation Within and Among Populations of Draba asterophora (Brassicaceae) in Lake Tahoe Nevada," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 1555.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1555