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Thesis Abstract – Egelhoff (2014)

Title:

Chemical weapons? The effect of allelochemicals from the invasive grass Vulpia myuros on fungal colonization of Artemisia californica

Author and college:

Rose Egelhoff, Pomona College

Date:

May 5, 2014

Degree:

Bachelor of Arts in Biology

Advisor:

Frances Hanzawa, Department of Biology, Pomona College

Abstract:

Allelopathic exudates from one plant may inhibit germination and stunt growth of competing plants, but can also interfere with competitors indirectly. Recent studies have shown that allelochemicals from certain invasive species disrupt the mycorrhizal networks of native plants. Vulpia myuros, an invasive grass in coastal sage scrub (CSS) communities, is known to contain allelopathic chemicals that suppress root and shoot growth in several agricultural species. I studied the possibility that Vulpia allelochemicals decrease mycorrhizal colonization rates of Artemisia californica, a co-dominant CSS shrub by measuring arbuscular mycorrhizal (AMF) colonization rates and infectivity of A. californica rhizosphere AMF communities in the presence or absence of Vulpia. Contrary to prediction, there is greater fungal colonization in the presence of Vulpia than in its absence. Additionally (and unexpectedly), it was found that dark septate endophyte (DSE) is present in the roots of A. californica, with colonization rates comparable to AMF colonization rates. Based on these results there is no indication that allelopathic chemicals from Vulpia decrease fungal colonization of A. californica.

For more information:

Contact Frances Hanzawa – frances.hanzawa@pomona.edu