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Evaluation of Germination Niche Breadth Along an Elevational Gradient

Published by National Park Service | Department of the Interior | Catalog Last Checked: January 25, 2026 at 05:29 PM | Dataset Last Updated: October 11, 2016 at 12:00 AM
Ecological generalization, or an increase in niche breadth, has been shown to vary consistently with latitude and elevation. Specifically, comparative studies in plant taxa have documented a strong increase in niche breadth with elevation, often attributed to enhancing the ability to survive in more variable conditions at higher elevations. At present, the following questions remain: [1] Does niche breadth increase with elevation within a single species? [2] Is an increase in niche breadth with elevation adaptive? PI plans to conduct a pilot study in summer 2015 to assess [1] and to inform selection of a potential future study system with which to evaluate [2]. As such, she will examine if the breadth of the germination niche changes along an elevational gradient in multiple species native to the southern Appalachian mountains.

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  • GSMNP Houstonia serpyllifolia germination data.xlsx

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