Abstract Detail

Conservation Biology

Paris, Nathan [1], Boyd, Robert [2].

Reproductive Biology of the Federally Threatened Apios priceana.

Land managers require knowledge of the reproductive biology of rare plants to tailor a management plan most suitable for conservation efforts. This study determined reproductive attrition in one population of Apios priceana and seeks to target the variables which most likely explain attrition and reproductive output. In 2010-2012 population structure was assessed with a population of Apios priceana occurring on Redstone Arsenal, Madison County, Alabama and a subsample of reproductively active plants were selected for a reproductive attrition study. These selected plants produced floral buds which were marked and monitored throughout development. The number of floral buds which successfully produced mature legumes was quantified. A breeding system study was also performed to determine pollen source preference for these plants. Seed studies which assessed the level of post-dispersal seed predation and the ability to create a seed bank were also explored. We found half of the population was comprised of juvenile individuals indicating past legume production and seedling survival. Reproductive attrition was very high in 2010-2012 resulting in only a few legumes reaching maturity. Due to drought conditions experienced in these years, we are exploring climatic variables in an effort to explain this severe attrition. Hand pollination efforts have shown a preference in these plants for out-crossed pollen sources. The post-dispersal seed predation study indicates seed predation is a factor in limiting potential recruitment of new individuals. Preliminary results of the seed bank study suggest Apios priceana does not form a seed bank. We concluded that precipitation may be the most influential factor tapering legume production indicating a need for supplemental watering during the critical reproductive phase of the plant.

Broader Impacts:

1 - 500 Webster Road Lot 207, Auburn, AL, 36832, USA
2 - Auburn University, Department of Biological Sciences, 101 LIFE SCIENCES BLDG, AUBURN UNIVERSITY, AL, 36849-5407, USA

Keywords:
plant biology
reproductive biology
conservation
threatened plant
threatened species.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Topics
Session: P
Location: Grand Salon A - D/Riverside Hilton
Date: Monday, July 29th, 2013
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PCB007
Abstract ID:888
Candidate for Awards:None