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Understanding the evolutionary potential of weeds: Baker’s weediness traits, tolerance to competition, and the general purpose genotype

Chaney, Lindsay
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1396524273

Abstract Details

2014, PhD, University of Cincinnati, Arts and Sciences: Biological Sciences.
Weeds are problematic because they can have large impacts on economies and on ecosystems. Much of the scientific work to this point has focused on predicting which weedy plants will become invasive; few studies have investigated how genetic variation for key weediness traits within one species can lead to evolutionary responses. Here I aim to uncover key principles in understanding the evolutionary potential in weeds. I do this in three chapters: (1) I investigate genetic variation of Baker’s `ideal’ weed traits in the common morning glory, (2) I examine the cost of benefits of tolerance to competition in the morning glory when grown with maize, and (3) I use a large data set to test Baker’s general purpose genotype in a variety of weedy plant species. In these studies I have found significant genetic variation for key weediness traits that provides the adequate fuel for evolutionary process in nature. I also found that some traits co-varied; this can act as a constraint on their respective or dual evolutionary trajectories. Also, in two studies I found significant fitness costs associated with tolerance. These results give us a deeper understanding on the evolutionary potential of weeds and how plants can adapt to a changing environment. This knowledge can facilitate decisions to be made regarding how weed management techniques and agricultural regimes may or may not select for more problematic weeds. It also gives additional insight in predicting what plants may become invasive.
Jodi Shann, Ph.D. (Committee Chair)
Christina Richards, Ph.D. (Committee Member)
Regina Baucom, Ph.D. (Committee Member)
Theresa Culley, Ph.D. (Committee Member)
Stephen Matter, Ph.D. (Committee Member)
107 p.
Evolution and Development
evolution; weeds; Baker; quantitative genetics; Ipomoea purpurea; adaptations

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Chaney, L. (2014). Understanding the evolutionary potential of weeds: Baker’s weediness traits, tolerance to competition, and the general purpose genotype [Doctoral dissertation, University of Cincinnati]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1396524273

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Chaney, Lindsay. Understanding the evolutionary potential of weeds: Baker’s weediness traits, tolerance to competition, and the general purpose genotype. 2014. University of Cincinnati, Doctoral dissertation. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1396524273.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Chaney, Lindsay. "Understanding the evolutionary potential of weeds: Baker’s weediness traits, tolerance to competition, and the general purpose genotype." Doctoral dissertation, University of Cincinnati, 2014. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1396524273

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

ucin1396524273
342
© 2014, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by University of Cincinnati and OhioLINK.