2011 NPS George M. Wright Climate Change Youth Initiative Fellowship Research Final Report
Bisbing S. 2012. 2011 NPS George M. Wright Climate Change Youth Initiative Fellowship Research Final Report. Colorado State University
A report on the ecological adaptations of Pinus contorta to climate change. An understanding of the role of phenotypic plasticity and genetic variation in overall success and relative distribution is still poorly documented for many widespread organisms. As changes in climate impact habitat, species will be forced to adapt or migrate to accommodate their environmental requirements. This research used genetic and ecological information to examine the nature of adaptation and the drivers of variation among the subspecies of Pinus contorta, the most widespread pine of western North America. This species’ broad distribution is divided into four geographically and morphologically distinct subspecies (ssp. murrayana, latifolia, contorta, and bolanderi), with each subspecies growing under and hypothesized to be locally adapted to a unique set of edaphic and climatic conditions. Climatic changes may have variable effects on populations across the distribution of the species, and conservation may require subspecies-level action.
- Type
- Unpublished Report
- Authors
- Bisbing, Sarah
- Date of Issue
- 2012-12-31
- Units
- YELL
- Keywords
- adaptations, Climate Change, Ecology, PINE, Pinus contorta
- Subjects
- Ecological Framework: Biological Integrity | Focal Species or Communities | Forest/Woodland Communities