Horticulture Research Station

The Effect of Plant Distribution on Diversity and Exotic Species Invasion in Prairie Restoration

Authors: Kathryn Anne Yurkonis (Iowa State University) , Brian J. Wilsey (Iowa State University) , Kirk A. Moloney (Iowa State University)

Abstract

The most abundant plants in restored prairies are often distributed in large, single-species stands despite our efforts to establish high diversity plantings. This likely occurs as weaker species are excluded by stronger competitors during the first few years of establishment. The resulting distribution of plants into large patches in space may promote establishment of non-planted species in restored prairies, further compromising restoration success.

Keywords: Ecology Evolution and Organismal Biology

How to Cite: Yurkonis, K. A. , Wilsey, B. J. & Moloney, K. A. (2009) “The Effect of Plant Distribution on Diversity and Exotic Species Invasion in Prairie Restoration”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports. 2008(1).