Date of Award
2015
Type
Thesis
Major
Master of Science
Degree Type
Master of Science in Natural Science
Department
Natural Sciences
First Advisor
Kevin S. Burgess
Second Advisor
Laura F. Galloway
Third Advisor
Holly R. Prendeville
Abstract
Local adaptation is characterized by higher reproductive fitness by individuals present in their native habitats relative to nonlocals. This study utilized Campanulastrum americanum as a model for assessing whether an environmental gradient can facilitate local adaptation. In particular, I determined if a latitudinal gradient across eastern United States has influenced the phenology and reproductive fitness of five northern and four southern C, americanum populations. These populations were reciprocally transplanted into two common garden sites positioned in the most northern and southern extent of the species distribution: Hastings, MI and Columbus, GA. I observed adaptive population differentiation of northern and southern populations. Both reproductive and phenological traits of plants of southern origin were differentiated from plants of northern origins and under selection. There was also significant selection towards earlier flowering initiation. Earlier flowering, along with faster bolting rate and delayed fruit maturation has assisted in maximizing reproductive fitness of southern populations in the south. While, earlier flowering, delayed fruit maturation, and delayed bolting has facilitated higher fitness of northern populations in the northern part of the species range. This study demonstrates that selection may occur across a species distribution, creating locally adapted populations.
Recommended Citation
Naciuk, Marisa L., "Latitudinal Gradient Facilitates Adaptive Population Differentiation of Campanulastrum americanum (American Bellflower)" (2015). Theses and Dissertations. 191.
https://csuepress.columbusstate.edu/theses_dissertations/191
