Negative Feedbacks in a Global Plant Invader
Author Information
Author(s): Andonian Krikor, Hierro José L., Khetsuriani Liana, Becerra Pablo, Janoyan Grigor, Villarreal Diego, Cavieres Lohengrin, Fox Laurel R., Callaway Ragan M.
Primary Institution: University of California Santa Cruz
Hypothesis
Is Centaurea released from natural enemy pressure from soil microbes in introduced regions?
Conclusion
The study found that Centaurea solstitialis experiences negative plant-soil feedbacks in regions where it is most invasive, which may limit its long-term persistence.
Supporting Evidence
- Soil microbes had pervasive negative effects in all regions.
- Centaurea generated strong negative feedbacks in regions where it is the most invasive.
- Negative feedbacks may limit the long-term persistence of invasive plants.
Takeaway
This study shows that a weed called Centaurea can actually be hurt by the soil it grows in, even in places where it's spreading quickly.
Methodology
Greenhouse experiments using soils and seeds collected from native and introduced populations of Centaurea solstitialis.
Limitations
The study did not identify specific soil microbes responsible for the observed effects.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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