Climate drives adaptive genetic responses associated with survival in big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata).

ABSTRACT: A genecological approach was used to explore genetic variation for survival in Artemisia tridentata (big sagebrush). Artemisia tridentata is a widespread and foundational shrub species in western North America. This species has become extremely fragmented, to the detriment of dependent wildlife, and efforts to restore it are now a land management priority. Common-garden experiments were established at three sites with seedlings from 55 source-populations. Populations included each of the three predominant subspecies, and cytotype variations. Survival was monitored for 5 years to assess differences in survival between gardens and populations. We found evidence of adaptive genetic variation for survival. Survival within gardens differed by source-population and a substantial pr

SUBMITTER: Chaney L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5367076 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature