Date of Award

2006

Publication Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

M.Sc.

Department

Biological Sciences

Keywords

Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Rights

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Abstract

Trapa natans, an invasive aquatic macrophyte, is currently located, in the Great Lakes, only in Sodus Bay, on the southern shore of Lake Ontario. In this thesis, I review the literature concerning the autoecology of T. natans and present results of controlled growth experiments examining: the effects of propagule mass on germination, local dispersal and plant vigor; stand density and detritus dynamics; and the effect of temperature on germination and seedling growth. Results are compiled using a modeling approach to determine potential range expansion in the Great Lakes. Experimental work determined that there was no minimum mass required for a T. natans propagule to germinate. Local dispersal by drop of propagules is limited; smaller propagules disperse farther. Progeny plant size was not significantly correlated with original propagule mass by the end of the study, nor with reproductive output. Surface area of all rosettes was similar by the end of the study, regardless of initial stand density. The number of rosettes decreased in high-density stands but was still significantly greater than that of low-density stands at the end of the study. Reproductive output was greatest in high-density stands. Lower temperatures significantly increased time to germination and decreased seedling growth rate, but did not influence overall germination rate. Prevention of spread depends on constant monitoring and prompt control. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)Dept. of Biological Sciences. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis2006 .P69. Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 45-01, page: 0208. Thesis (M.Sc.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 2006.

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