Abstract Detail

Ecology

Atkins, David [1], Laughlin, Daniel [2], Margaret, Moore [3].

Linking functional traits to demographic fitness outcomes.

Functional traits determine a plant species’ ability to persist in a given environment. Differences in these functional traits influence demographic vital rates. However, tradeoffs observed between individual vital rates may obscure the net effect on fitness. Here we use 20 years of demographic census data paired with functional trait measurements to evaluate the effects of functional traits on the population fitness of dominant perennial graminoids. These populations are located within 16 sites outside of Flagstaff, AZ and representing a significant gradient of temperature and precipitation. We report significant inter- and intraspecific variation in functional trait values corresponding to changes in environmental conditions across sites. We also find differences in population growth rates calculated using integral projection models (IPMs) and interactions between traits and environment effects on fitness. These findings demonstrate tradeoffs in vital rates leading to fitness differences between species and link these differences to abiotic conditions between sites.

1 - University of Wyoming, Botany, 1000 E University Ave, Laramie, WY, 82071, USA
2 - University Of Wyoming, Department Of Botany, 1000 E University Ave, Laramie, WY, 82071, United States
3 - Northern Arizona University, School of Forestry, 200 E Pine Knoll Drive, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011

Keywords:
ecology
functional traits
ecophysiology
population biology.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Number: EC08002
Abstract ID:956
Candidate for Awards:None