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FinalThesis_JUL2020_Noble.pdf (833.94 KB)

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The Influence of Canopy Cover and Canopy Heterogeneity on Plant Diversity within Oak Savannas

Noble, Sidney Lake
http://orcid.org/0000-0002-0748-2124
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1595843486558554

Abstract Details

2020, Master of Science in Botany, Miami University, Botany.
Midwest oak savannas contain some of the highest plant diversity in the U.S. and are one of the rarest terrestrial ecosystems. This study aimed to understand the role of canopy cover and canopy heterogeneity in influencing plant alpha and beta diversity within these ecosystems. This is important for conservation and restoration because these systems must be maintained through active management. This study took place in remnant and restored oak savannas of the Indiana Dunes. Vegetation surveys took place across gradients of canopy cover and canopy heterogeneity. Alpha diversity was highest in plots with intermediate canopy cover (25-50%) and high canopy heterogeneity. However, plant functional groups varied in their response to canopy cover. Woody species diversity was highest in areas with a high canopy cover (>75%). C3, C4, and sedge species diversity was highest in areas with low canopy cover (<25%). Forb and legume diversity were highest with low to intermediate canopy cover (25-50% and 20-35%). There was no relationship between canopy cover or canopy heterogeneity with beta diversity. However, beta diversity was exceptionally high within all sites. From a management perspective, an average canopy cover of 25-50% is the optimal cover for promoting high plant diversity across many functional groups.
Jonathan Bauer, Dr. (Advisor)
Melany Fisk, Dr. (Committee Member)
Amélie Davis, Dr. (Committee Member)
41 p.
Botany; Conservation; Ecology
Plant Diversity; Environmental Heterogeneity; Oak Savannas; Alpha Diversity; Beta Diversity

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Noble, S. L. (2020). The Influence of Canopy Cover and Canopy Heterogeneity on Plant Diversity within Oak Savannas [Master's thesis, Miami University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1595843486558554

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Noble, Sidney. The Influence of Canopy Cover and Canopy Heterogeneity on Plant Diversity within Oak Savannas . 2020. Miami University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1595843486558554.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Noble, Sidney. "The Influence of Canopy Cover and Canopy Heterogeneity on Plant Diversity within Oak Savannas ." Master's thesis, Miami University, 2020. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1595843486558554

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

miami1595843486558554
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© 2020, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Miami University and OhioLINK.