Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
optimal germination rates, conifer-aspen seeds, aspen forests, temperature
College
Life Sciences
Department
Plant and Wildlife Sciences
Abstract
In the aspen forests on the mountains of Utah, a shift is occurring in the ecological community. The aspen stands have, over time, been invaded by multiple conifer species. The composition of these forests is shifting from a pure aspen stand to a pure conifer stand (Calder & St. Clair 2012). Recent findings show that there exists in conifer-aspen ecosystems a direct facilitative relationship between aspen and conifer. While there have been multiple studies investigating the facilitative interactions of conifer-conifer stands, at present, little or no data is available regarding facilitation and seedling establishment in aspen dominated and aspen-conifer mixed stands. In this study we will look at the effect of temperature and water availability on the germination of four mountainous conifer species and aspen. These results can then be compared against the existing water potentials that are prevalent in aspen, and aspen-conifer stands thus allowing us to predict the probability of successful germination of conifer seedlings in the areas of question.
Recommended Citation
Boekweg, Christian; Nettles, Rachel; and St. Clair, Dr. Samuel
(2014)
"Factors Influencing the Optimal Germination Rates of Conifer-aspen Seeds,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014:
Iss.
1, Article 933.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/933