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• 1. [Article] The effect of salinity on habitat selection of two Oregon chiton species (Katharina tunicata and Mopalia hindsii)

  Adult specimens of Katharina tunicata (mean weight = 10.23 grams) and Mopalia hindsii (mean weight = 10.90 grams) were tested for osmotic stress tolerance and oxygen consumption rates in a series of salinities ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The effect of salinity on habitat selection of two Oregon chiton species (Katharina tunicata and Mopalia hindsii) Author: Rostal, David Carl Year: 1986 Adult specimens of Katharina tunicata (mean weight = 10.23 grams) and Mopalia hindsii (mean weight = 10.90 grams) were tested for osmotic stress tolerance and oxygen consumption rates in a series of salinities (120%, 100%, 80%, 60%, and 40% seawater) at 11°C and 16L:8D photoperiod. K. tunicata and M. hindsii displayed similar trends in percent body weight variation and volume regulatory responses to osmotic stress. However, K. tunicata experienced a significantly higher percent body weight increase than did M. hindsii in response to hypo-osmotic conditions (80%, 60%, and 40% seawater). The mean rates of oxygen consumption per salinity for the two species were not significantly different. Both species, however, showed reduced oxygen consumption rates and significantly increased weight gain in 40% seawater. SEM comparisons of radulae, ctenidia, and shape of the pallial groove revealed no significant differences between the species relevant to differences observed in habitat selection. Title: The effect of salinity on habitat selection of two Oregon chiton species (Katharina tunicata and Mopalia hindsii) Author: Rostal, David Carl Year: 1986 Adult specimens of Katharina tunicata (mean weight = 10.23 grams) and Mopalia hindsii (mean weight = 10.90 grams) were tested for osmotic stress tolerance and oxygen consumption rates in a series of salinities (120%, 100%, 80%, 60%, and 40% seawater) at 11°C and 16L:8D photoperiod. K. tunicata and M. hindsii displayed similar trends in percent body weight variation and volume regulatory responses to osmotic stress. However, K. tunicata experienced a significantly higher percent body weight increase than did M. hindsii in response to hypo-osmotic conditions (80%, 60%, and 40% seawater). The mean rates of oxygen consumption per salinity for the two species were not significantly different. Both species, however, showed reduced oxygen consumption rates and significantly increased weight gain in 40% seawater. SEM comparisons of radulae, ctenidia, and shape of the pallial groove revealed no significant differences between the species relevant to differences observed in habitat selection. Close

• 2. [Article] A multi-gene phylogeny of Cephalopoda supports convergent morphological evolution in association with multiple habitat shifts in the marine environment

  The marine environment is comprised of numerous divergent organisms living under similar selective pressures, often resulting in the evolution of convergent structures such as the fusiform body shape of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A multi-gene phylogeny of Cephalopoda supports convergent morphological evolution in association with multiple habitat shifts in the marine environment Author: Lindgren, Annie R., Pankey, Molly S., Hochberg, Frederick G., Oakley, Todd H. Year: 2012 The marine environment is comprised of numerous divergent organisms living under similar selective pressures, often resulting in the evolution of convergent structures such as the fusiform body shape of pelagic squids, fishes, and some marine mammals. However, little is known about the frequency of, and circumstances leading to, convergent evolution in the open ocean. Here, we present a comparative study of the molluscan class Cephalopoda, a marine group known to occupy habitats from the intertidal to the deep sea. Several lineages bear features that may coincide with a benthic or pelagic existence, making this a valuable group for testing hypotheses of correlated evolution. To test for convergence and correlation, we generate the most taxonomically comprehensive multi-gene phylogeny of cephalopods to date. We then create a character matrix of habitat type and morphological characters, which we use to infer ancestral character states and test for correlation between habitat and morphology. Our study utilizes a taxonomically well-sampled phylogeny to show convergent evolution in all six morphological characters we analyzed. Three of these characters also correlate with habitat. The presence of an autogenic photophore (those relying upon autonomous enzymatic light reactions) is correlated with a pelagic habitat, while the cornea and accessory nidamental gland correlate with a benthic lifestyle. Here, we present the first statistical tests for correlation between convergent traits and habitat in cephalopods to better understand the evolutionary history of characters that are adaptive in benthic or pelagic environments, respectively. Our study supports the hypothesis that habitat has influenced convergent evolution in the marine environment: benthic organisms tend to exhibit similar characteristics that confer protection from invasion by other benthic taxa, while pelagic organisms possess features that facilitate crypsis and communication in an environment lacking physical refuges. Features that have originated multiple times in distantly related lineages are likely adaptive for the organisms inhabiting a particular environment: studying the frequency and evolutionary history of such convergent characters can increase understanding of the underlying forces driving ecological and evolutionary transitions in the marine environment. Title: A multi-gene phylogeny of Cephalopoda supports convergent morphological evolution in association with multiple habitat shifts in the marine environment Author: Lindgren, Annie R., Pankey, Molly S., Hochberg, Frederick G., Oakley, Todd H. Year: 2012 The marine environment is comprised of numerous divergent organisms living under similar selective pressures, often resulting in the evolution of convergent structures such as the fusiform body shape of pelagic squids, fishes, and some marine mammals. However, little is known about the frequency of, and circumstances leading to, convergent evolution in the open ocean. Here, we present a comparative study of the molluscan class Cephalopoda, a marine group known to occupy habitats from the intertidal to the deep sea. Several lineages bear features that may coincide with a benthic or pelagic existence, making this a valuable group for testing hypotheses of correlated evolution. To test for convergence and correlation, we generate the most taxonomically comprehensive multi-gene phylogeny of cephalopods to date. We then create a character matrix of habitat type and morphological characters, which we use to infer ancestral character states and test for correlation between habitat and morphology. Our study utilizes a taxonomically well-sampled phylogeny to show convergent evolution in all six morphological characters we analyzed. Three of these characters also correlate with habitat. The presence of an autogenic photophore (those relying upon autonomous enzymatic light reactions) is correlated with a pelagic habitat, while the cornea and accessory nidamental gland correlate with a benthic lifestyle. Here, we present the first statistical tests for correlation between convergent traits and habitat in cephalopods to better understand the evolutionary history of characters that are adaptive in benthic or pelagic environments, respectively. Our study supports the hypothesis that habitat has influenced convergent evolution in the marine environment: benthic organisms tend to exhibit similar characteristics that confer protection from invasion by other benthic taxa, while pelagic organisms possess features that facilitate crypsis and communication in an environment lacking physical refuges. Features that have originated multiple times in distantly related lineages are likely adaptive for the organisms inhabiting a particular environment: studying the frequency and evolutionary history of such convergent characters can increase understanding of the underlying forces driving ecological and evolutionary transitions in the marine environment. Close

• 3. [Article] Spatial Patterns of Extra-pair Paternity for Spotted Towhees Pipilo Maculatus in Urban Parks

  The extra-pair (EP) mating system of birds may be influenced by food resources, such that nutritionally stressed females are unable to pursue EP fertilizations (constrained female hypothesis; CFH), or ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Spatial Patterns of Extra-pair Paternity for Spotted Towhees Pipilo Maculatus in Urban Parks Author: Bartos Smith, Sarah, McKay, Jenny E., Murphy, Michael T., Duffield, Deborah A. Year: 2016 The extra-pair (EP) mating system of birds may be influenced by food resources, such that nutritionally stressed females are unable to pursue EP fertilizations (constrained female hypothesis; CFH), or that females on poor territories acquire EP fertilizations during extra-territorial forays in search of food (mating opportunity hypothesis; MOH). Edges of urban habitat fragments are sites of apparent high food abundance for spotted towhees Pipilo maculatus, and we used distance to habitat edge in four urban parks in Portland, OR, USA (2004–2006), to test the CFH and MOH. EP paternity was independent of park identity and year; 44% of nests contained EP young and 26% of all young were EP. As predicted by the CFH, EP paternity was more common in nests of long-tailed (presumably) high quality females. However, independently of tail length, younger females had more EP young than older females, a finding consistent with the MOH. Contrary to predictions of both hypotheses, the probability that a nest contained EP young was highest both at the habitat edge and habitat interior while the proportion of young in nests of EP origin (for nests with EP young) was highest at intermediate distances from habitat edge. We propose that high frequency of EP paternity among females in the interior occurred because, as predicted by the MOH, they ranged more widely in search of food and often encountered EP males. High probability of EP paternity near edges was likely unrelated to female quality. Instead, anthropogenic food sources may have attracted individuals to edges and increased encounters between potential EP mates. Simple opportunity seems likely to account for patterns of EP paternity in spotted towhees, suggesting that human altered environments have the potential to substantially affect EP mating behavior. Title: Spatial Patterns of Extra-pair Paternity for Spotted Towhees Pipilo Maculatus in Urban Parks Author: Bartos Smith, Sarah, McKay, Jenny E., Murphy, Michael T., Duffield, Deborah A. Year: 2016 The extra-pair (EP) mating system of birds may be influenced by food resources, such that nutritionally stressed females are unable to pursue EP fertilizations (constrained female hypothesis; CFH), or that females on poor territories acquire EP fertilizations during extra-territorial forays in search of food (mating opportunity hypothesis; MOH). Edges of urban habitat fragments are sites of apparent high food abundance for spotted towhees Pipilo maculatus, and we used distance to habitat edge in four urban parks in Portland, OR, USA (2004–2006), to test the CFH and MOH. EP paternity was independent of park identity and year; 44% of nests contained EP young and 26% of all young were EP. As predicted by the CFH, EP paternity was more common in nests of long-tailed (presumably) high quality females. However, independently of tail length, younger females had more EP young than older females, a finding consistent with the MOH. Contrary to predictions of both hypotheses, the probability that a nest contained EP young was highest both at the habitat edge and habitat interior while the proportion of young in nests of EP origin (for nests with EP young) was highest at intermediate distances from habitat edge. We propose that high frequency of EP paternity among females in the interior occurred because, as predicted by the MOH, they ranged more widely in search of food and often encountered EP males. High probability of EP paternity near edges was likely unrelated to female quality. Instead, anthropogenic food sources may have attracted individuals to edges and increased encounters between potential EP mates. Simple opportunity seems likely to account for patterns of EP paternity in spotted towhees, suggesting that human altered environments have the potential to substantially affect EP mating behavior. Close

• 4. [Article] Avian population trends within the evolving agricultural landscape of the eastern and central United States

  State-level Breeding Bird Survey (1980-1998) and U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics were used to test the hypothesis that changes in agricultural land use within the eastern and central U.S. have ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Avian population trends within the evolving agricultural landscape of the eastern and central United States Author: Murphy, Michael T. Year: 2003 State-level Breeding Bird Survey (1980-1998) and U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics were used to test the hypothesis that changes in agricultural land use within the eastern and central U.S. have driven population trends of grassland and shrub habitat birds over the past two decades. The degree to which population trends differed between grassland and shrub habitats was evaluated with respect to migratory and nesting behavior. Grassland birds declined significantly between 1980 and 1999, but, on average, shrub habitat species did not. Grassland-breeding, long-distance migrants exhibited the strongest negative trends. Most species (78%; n = 63) exhibited at least one significant association between population trends and changes in agricultural land use, and in most, land use "explained" 25-30% of the variation in population trends among states. Changes in the farmland landscape accounted for more of the interstate variability of population trends of short-distance migrants than of both long-distance migrants and residents, and that variability was greater in grassland than shrub species. Declines in the area of rangeland and cover crops were followed by population declines and increases, respectively, by many species. Increases of land in the Conservation Reserve Program had negative associations with population trends of some shrub species. The results indicate that grassland birds have declined strongly over the past two decades, and that regardless of migratory behavior or nesting habits, avian population trends are linked strongly to changes in agricultural land use within North America. Title: Avian population trends within the evolving agricultural landscape of the eastern and central United States Author: Murphy, Michael T. Year: 2003 State-level Breeding Bird Survey (1980-1998) and U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics were used to test the hypothesis that changes in agricultural land use within the eastern and central U.S. have driven population trends of grassland and shrub habitat birds over the past two decades. The degree to which population trends differed between grassland and shrub habitats was evaluated with respect to migratory and nesting behavior. Grassland birds declined significantly between 1980 and 1999, but, on average, shrub habitat species did not. Grassland-breeding, long-distance migrants exhibited the strongest negative trends. Most species (78%; n = 63) exhibited at least one significant association between population trends and changes in agricultural land use, and in most, land use "explained" 25-30% of the variation in population trends among states. Changes in the farmland landscape accounted for more of the interstate variability of population trends of short-distance migrants than of both long-distance migrants and residents, and that variability was greater in grassland than shrub species. Declines in the area of rangeland and cover crops were followed by population declines and increases, respectively, by many species. Increases of land in the Conservation Reserve Program had negative associations with population trends of some shrub species. The results indicate that grassland birds have declined strongly over the past two decades, and that regardless of migratory behavior or nesting habits, avian population trends are linked strongly to changes in agricultural land use within North America. Close

• 5. [Article] Investigations of Larval Pacific Lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus Osmotic Stress Tolerance and Occurrence in a Tidally-Influenced Estuarine Stream

  Pacific lamprey is a culturally valuable species to indigenous people, and has significant ecological importance in freshwater and marine ecosystems. Over the past several decades, constrictions in range ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Investigations of Larval Pacific Lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus Osmotic Stress Tolerance and Occurrence in a Tidally-Influenced Estuarine Stream Author: Silver, Gregory Shell Year: 2015 Pacific lamprey is a culturally valuable species to indigenous people, and has significant ecological importance in freshwater and marine ecosystems. Over the past several decades, constrictions in range and reductions in Pacific lamprey abundance have been observed in Western North America, and may be indicators of range-wide declines. In the face of declining populations, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has partnered with tribal, state, federal, and local entities to implement a regional Pacific lamprey conservation agreement aimed at reducing threats to Pacific lamprey and improving their habitats and population status. Research needs identified in the conservation agreement include assessing larval Pacific lamprey occupancy and distribution, habitat requirements, and the limiting factors of larval distribution in the freshwater ecosystem. As part of the effort to address these knowledge gaps, we investigated the potential for larval lampreys to occur in tidally-influenced estuarine environments. Research of this type may be valuable for future conservation, management or recovery efforts of Pacific lamprey throughout its range. We employed a two-phased approach, consisting of laboratory and field components to address our aims. We first conducted a series of controlled laboratory experiments to evaluate osmotic stress tolerance and osmoregulatory status of larval Pacific lamprey exposed to a range of (1) fixed salinity in various dilutions of saltwater and (2) oscillating salinity treatments designed to simulate tidal activity. Tolerance was assessed by monitoring and comparing survival of larvae in various treatments through 96 h. Osmoregulatory status was assessed by quantifying and comparing total body water content, plasma osmolality, and plasma cation (i.e., sodium) concentrations among larvae surviving various treatments. In fixed salinity experiments, 100% survival was observed in 0‰, 6‰, 8‰ and 10‰ through 96 h, while 0% survival was observed through 48 h in 12‰, 30 h in 15‰, and 12 h in 25‰ and 35‰. In oscillating salinity experiments, on the other hand, a significant increase in survival (100%) was observed through 96 h in treatments that oscillated between 12‰ and 0‰ (freshwater) at about 6 h intervals versus fixed 12‰ salinity experiments. A significant increase in survival also occurred in oscillating 15‰ treatments (60%) versus fixed 15‰ through 96 h. Linear regression analysis indicated higher environmental salinity in laboratory experiments was significantly related to increases in plasma osmolality and plasma sodium (the most abundant osmotically active plasma cation) concentrations, and concurrent decreases in total body water content among larvae that survived various treatments. Tidal oscillations in salinity appeared to temper the desiccating effects of salinity, as changes in body water content and sodium ion concentration were less abrupt than fixed salinity treatments. These results suggest larvae cannot osmoregulate in hyperosmotic environments, but are able to tolerate some fixed and oscillating hyperosmotic salinity exposure. Consequently, larvae may be able to occur in certain areas of estuaries, such as oligohaline habitats that are characterized by low levels of salinity. Experimental results were used, in part, to guide larval sampling in a tidally-influenced habitat. Occurrence of larval Pacific lamprey and Lampetra spp. (western brook and river lampreys) was subsequently investigated across a gradient of salinity in Ellsworth Creek (Pacific County, Washington) by electrofishing. Larval Pacific and Lampetra spp. were detected within an approximately 300 m long tidally-influenced segment of the study area. Salinity monitoring was conducted in six tidally-influenced reaches where larvae were detected for up to 14 d following electrofishing. Maximum tidal cycle salinity exceeded 15 ppt during 52% to 80% of tidal cycles within tidally-influenced reaches where larvae were detected. These results suggest potential for larval lamprey to occur in certain portions of tidal estuaries. However, long-term residence of larvae in tidally-influenced habitats and whether larvae are able to subsequently survive, grow, transform, and out-migrate is not known and requires further study. Given the potential for tidally-influenced habitats to be occupied by larvae, assessments of larval occurrence in other areas, such as the lower Columbia River, may be warranted. Knowledge of larval lamprey distribution in estuarine environments may be valuable for habitat restoration, and mitigating potential impacts from dredging and other human disturbances. Title: Investigations of Larval Pacific Lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus Osmotic Stress Tolerance and Occurrence in a Tidally-Influenced Estuarine Stream Author: Silver, Gregory Shell Year: 2015 Pacific lamprey is a culturally valuable species to indigenous people, and has significant ecological importance in freshwater and marine ecosystems. Over the past several decades, constrictions in range and reductions in Pacific lamprey abundance have been observed in Western North America, and may be indicators of range-wide declines. In the face of declining populations, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has partnered with tribal, state, federal, and local entities to implement a regional Pacific lamprey conservation agreement aimed at reducing threats to Pacific lamprey and improving their habitats and population status. Research needs identified in the conservation agreement include assessing larval Pacific lamprey occupancy and distribution, habitat requirements, and the limiting factors of larval distribution in the freshwater ecosystem. As part of the effort to address these knowledge gaps, we investigated the potential for larval lampreys to occur in tidally-influenced estuarine environments. Research of this type may be valuable for future conservation, management or recovery efforts of Pacific lamprey throughout its range. We employed a two-phased approach, consisting of laboratory and field components to address our aims. We first conducted a series of controlled laboratory experiments to evaluate osmotic stress tolerance and osmoregulatory status of larval Pacific lamprey exposed to a range of (1) fixed salinity in various dilutions of saltwater and (2) oscillating salinity treatments designed to simulate tidal activity. Tolerance was assessed by monitoring and comparing survival of larvae in various treatments through 96 h. Osmoregulatory status was assessed by quantifying and comparing total body water content, plasma osmolality, and plasma cation (i.e., sodium) concentrations among larvae surviving various treatments. In fixed salinity experiments, 100% survival was observed in 0‰, 6‰, 8‰ and 10‰ through 96 h, while 0% survival was observed through 48 h in 12‰, 30 h in 15‰, and 12 h in 25‰ and 35‰. In oscillating salinity experiments, on the other hand, a significant increase in survival (100%) was observed through 96 h in treatments that oscillated between 12‰ and 0‰ (freshwater) at about 6 h intervals versus fixed 12‰ salinity experiments. A significant increase in survival also occurred in oscillating 15‰ treatments (60%) versus fixed 15‰ through 96 h. Linear regression analysis indicated higher environmental salinity in laboratory experiments was significantly related to increases in plasma osmolality and plasma sodium (the most abundant osmotically active plasma cation) concentrations, and concurrent decreases in total body water content among larvae that survived various treatments. Tidal oscillations in salinity appeared to temper the desiccating effects of salinity, as changes in body water content and sodium ion concentration were less abrupt than fixed salinity treatments. These results suggest larvae cannot osmoregulate in hyperosmotic environments, but are able to tolerate some fixed and oscillating hyperosmotic salinity exposure. Consequently, larvae may be able to occur in certain areas of estuaries, such as oligohaline habitats that are characterized by low levels of salinity. Experimental results were used, in part, to guide larval sampling in a tidally-influenced habitat. Occurrence of larval Pacific lamprey and Lampetra spp. (western brook and river lampreys) was subsequently investigated across a gradient of salinity in Ellsworth Creek (Pacific County, Washington) by electrofishing. Larval Pacific and Lampetra spp. were detected within an approximately 300 m long tidally-influenced segment of the study area. Salinity monitoring was conducted in six tidally-influenced reaches where larvae were detected for up to 14 d following electrofishing. Maximum tidal cycle salinity exceeded 15 ppt during 52% to 80% of tidal cycles within tidally-influenced reaches where larvae were detected. These results suggest potential for larval lamprey to occur in certain portions of tidal estuaries. However, long-term residence of larvae in tidally-influenced habitats and whether larvae are able to subsequently survive, grow, transform, and out-migrate is not known and requires further study. Given the potential for tidally-influenced habitats to be occupied by larvae, assessments of larval occurrence in other areas, such as the lower Columbia River, may be warranted. Knowledge of larval lamprey distribution in estuarine environments may be valuable for habitat restoration, and mitigating potential impacts from dredging and other human disturbances. Close

• 6. [Article] Let the Seeds Fall Where They May: Investigating the Effect of Landscape Features on Fine-Scale Seed Dispersal

  Seed dispersal is a crucial ecological and evolutionary process that allows plants to colonize sites and expand their ranges, while also reducing inbreeding depression and facilitating the spread of adaptive ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Let the Seeds Fall Where They May: Investigating the Effect of Landscape Features on Fine-Scale Seed Dispersal Author: Grasty, Monica R. Year: 2017 Seed dispersal is a crucial ecological and evolutionary process that allows plants to colonize sites and expand their ranges, while also reducing inbreeding depression and facilitating the spread of adaptive genetic variation. However, our fundamental understanding of seed dispersal is limited due to the difficulty of directly observing dispersal events. In recent years, genetic marker methods have furthered our understanding of colonization and range expansion due to seed dispersal. Most investigations focus on regional scales of dispersal, due to low levels of variation in the chloroplast genome (cpDNA), which can serve as an indirect measure of seed dispersal. Here, I employ a whole-genome assay of cpDNA variation in Plagiobothrys nothofulvus to resolve variation due to patterns of seed dispersal within a 400x400 meter section of the Whetstone Savanna Preserve in Central Point, OR, USA. Whetstone is characterized by a mosaic of habitat types, including vernal pools, hummocks of dry prairie, and large Ceanothus cuneatus bushes, as well as a network of vole runways. Plagiobothrys nothofulvus grows in dense patches on hummocks within this prairie. I found evidence of limited seed dispersal in P. nothofulvus, indicated by strong genetic structure over distances of less than 100 meters. There was little evidence that geographic distance predicts genetic distance; environmental features have a stronger influence on dispersal. Habitat preference was the strongest predictor of genetic variation in P. nothofulvus, indicating that it may be a habitat specialist in this prairie. Flower density also accounted for a significant portion of dispersal, which may be a consequence of the annual life history of P. nothofulvus resulting in seasonal turnover and lack of competition with adult plants. Least-cost-path analysis indicated that seeds are secondarily dispersed by small mammals along vole runways. Overall, I found significant evidence that landscape features influence dispersal, even at a very fine spatial scale. Title: Let the Seeds Fall Where They May: Investigating the Effect of Landscape Features on Fine-Scale Seed Dispersal Author: Grasty, Monica R. Year: 2017 Seed dispersal is a crucial ecological and evolutionary process that allows plants to colonize sites and expand their ranges, while also reducing inbreeding depression and facilitating the spread of adaptive genetic variation. However, our fundamental understanding of seed dispersal is limited due to the difficulty of directly observing dispersal events. In recent years, genetic marker methods have furthered our understanding of colonization and range expansion due to seed dispersal. Most investigations focus on regional scales of dispersal, due to low levels of variation in the chloroplast genome (cpDNA), which can serve as an indirect measure of seed dispersal. Here, I employ a whole-genome assay of cpDNA variation in Plagiobothrys nothofulvus to resolve variation due to patterns of seed dispersal within a 400x400 meter section of the Whetstone Savanna Preserve in Central Point, OR, USA. Whetstone is characterized by a mosaic of habitat types, including vernal pools, hummocks of dry prairie, and large Ceanothus cuneatus bushes, as well as a network of vole runways. Plagiobothrys nothofulvus grows in dense patches on hummocks within this prairie. I found evidence of limited seed dispersal in P. nothofulvus, indicated by strong genetic structure over distances of less than 100 meters. There was little evidence that geographic distance predicts genetic distance; environmental features have a stronger influence on dispersal. Habitat preference was the strongest predictor of genetic variation in P. nothofulvus, indicating that it may be a habitat specialist in this prairie. Flower density also accounted for a significant portion of dispersal, which may be a consequence of the annual life history of P. nothofulvus resulting in seasonal turnover and lack of competition with adult plants. Least-cost-path analysis indicated that seeds are secondarily dispersed by small mammals along vole runways. Overall, I found significant evidence that landscape features influence dispersal, even at a very fine spatial scale. Close

• 7. [Article] Investigation of Crangon spawning behavior, assemblage, and trophic relationships in the estuarine and shelf habitats of the central Oregon coast

  This was a final project for BI 450 Marine Biology, which included a paper and a presentation by myself and Larkin Loewenherz. The presentation was given on June 6th, 2014, to a public audience at Hatfield ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Investigation of Crangon spawning behavior, assemblage, and trophic relationships in the estuarine and shelf habitats of the central Oregon coast Author: Huff, David D., Danilchik, Nikolai M., Loewenherz, Larkin This was a final project for BI 450 Marine Biology, which included a paper and a presentation by myself and Larkin Loewenherz. The presentation was given on June 6th, 2014, to a public audience at Hatfield Marine Science Center. Title: Investigation of Crangon spawning behavior, assemblage, and trophic relationships in the estuarine and shelf habitats of the central Oregon coast Author: Huff, David D., Danilchik, Nikolai M., Loewenherz, Larkin This was a final project for BI 450 Marine Biology, which included a paper and a presentation by myself and Larkin Loewenherz. The presentation was given on June 6th, 2014, to a public audience at Hatfield Marine Science Center. Close

• 8. [Article] Distribution and Behavior Study of Diurnal Tree Squirrels in Portland, Oregon, with Emphasis on the Western Gray Squirrel (Saiurus grieeus griseus Ord) and the Western Fox Squirrel (S. niger rufiventer E. Geoffroy St.-Hilaire)

  Populations of diurnal tree squirrels in the Portland area were located by mail surveys, personal interviews, and field inspections. Pine squirrels were found to reside in thickly wooded residential areas ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Distribution and Behavior Study of Diurnal Tree Squirrels in Portland, Oregon, with Emphasis on the Western Gray Squirrel (Saiurus grieeus griseus Ord) and the Western Fox Squirrel (S. niger rufiventer E. Geoffroy St.-Hilaire) Author: Rice, Ira Young Year: 1977 Populations of diurnal tree squirrels in the Portland area were located by mail surveys, personal interviews, and field inspections. Pine squirrels were found to reside in thickly wooded residential areas with dense understories and running water nearby. Western gray squirrels occupied habitats in relatively quiet residential neighborhoods, in areas well supplied with mast crops. Western fox squirrels were found to coexist with gray squirrels in their preferred habitat, and also to thrive in park settings with few mast trees and high activity and noise levels. In areas occupied by both fox and gray squirrels, dominant-subordinate relationships were noted. Each species tolerated the others. Title: Distribution and Behavior Study of Diurnal Tree Squirrels in Portland, Oregon, with Emphasis on the Western Gray Squirrel (Saiurus grieeus griseus Ord) and the Western Fox Squirrel (S. niger rufiventer E. Geoffroy St.-Hilaire) Author: Rice, Ira Young Year: 1977 Populations of diurnal tree squirrels in the Portland area were located by mail surveys, personal interviews, and field inspections. Pine squirrels were found to reside in thickly wooded residential areas with dense understories and running water nearby. Western gray squirrels occupied habitats in relatively quiet residential neighborhoods, in areas well supplied with mast crops. Western fox squirrels were found to coexist with gray squirrels in their preferred habitat, and also to thrive in park settings with few mast trees and high activity and noise levels. In areas occupied by both fox and gray squirrels, dominant-subordinate relationships were noted. Each species tolerated the others. Close

• 9. [Article] Residential Edges as Ecological Traps: Postfledgling Survival of a Ground-Nesting Passerine in a Forested Urban Park

  Substantial offspring mortality can occur during the postfledging period of birds, but few postfledging survival studies have been conducted within the context of habitat suitability. We conducted a 2-year ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Residential Edges as Ecological Traps: Postfledgling Survival of a Ground-Nesting Passerine in a Forested Urban Park Author: Shipley, Amy A., Murphy, Michael T., Elzinga, Adam H. Year: 2013 Substantial offspring mortality can occur during the postfledging period of birds, but few postfledging survival studies have been conducted within the context of habitat suitability. We conducted a 2-year radiotelemetry study of Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatus) reproductive success and fledgling survival in a 24-ha forested park in a residential area of Lake Oswego, Oregon. In corroboration of previous research on this species, we found (1) that Spotted Towhees nested closer to the edge between the park and residential neighborhoods than expected by chance, and (2) that pairs nesting near edges produced the largest and most offspring. However, fates were reversed during the postfledging period. Thirty-six of 52 fledglings survived the 27-day tracking period, and although fledglings were more likely to be found near edges than in the interior, fledglings near edges had a far higher probability of dying. All deaths were from predation, and at least 11 of 16 predation events were attributable to Domestic Cats (Felis catus) and Western Screech-Owls (Megascops kennicottii). A stochastic model that incorporated probability of nest success, nestling production from successful nests, and fledgling survival showed that the number of independent offspring produced per nest was greatest in the park interior. Heavy use of, and apparent preference for, edge by nesting Spotted Towhees, coupled with high fledgling mortality near edges, created a severe ecological trap that was not apparent until the final stage of parental care. Hence, failure to document offspring survival in the late stages of reproduction may lead to incorrect assessment of habitat suitability and poor management decisions. Title: Residential Edges as Ecological Traps: Postfledgling Survival of a Ground-Nesting Passerine in a Forested Urban Park Author: Shipley, Amy A., Murphy, Michael T., Elzinga, Adam H. Year: 2013 Substantial offspring mortality can occur during the postfledging period of birds, but few postfledging survival studies have been conducted within the context of habitat suitability. We conducted a 2-year radiotelemetry study of Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatus) reproductive success and fledgling survival in a 24-ha forested park in a residential area of Lake Oswego, Oregon. In corroboration of previous research on this species, we found (1) that Spotted Towhees nested closer to the edge between the park and residential neighborhoods than expected by chance, and (2) that pairs nesting near edges produced the largest and most offspring. However, fates were reversed during the postfledging period. Thirty-six of 52 fledglings survived the 27-day tracking period, and although fledglings were more likely to be found near edges than in the interior, fledglings near edges had a far higher probability of dying. All deaths were from predation, and at least 11 of 16 predation events were attributable to Domestic Cats (Felis catus) and Western Screech-Owls (Megascops kennicottii). A stochastic model that incorporated probability of nest success, nestling production from successful nests, and fledgling survival showed that the number of independent offspring produced per nest was greatest in the park interior. Heavy use of, and apparent preference for, edge by nesting Spotted Towhees, coupled with high fledgling mortality near edges, created a severe ecological trap that was not apparent until the final stage of parental care. Hence, failure to document offspring survival in the late stages of reproduction may lead to incorrect assessment of habitat suitability and poor management decisions. Close

• 10. [Article] The Impact of Weather on Kingbird Foraging Behavior

  Foraging data on Eastern Kingbirds (Tyrannus tyrannus) were collected during the early breeding season in eastern Kansas to test the hypothesis that foraging rate and other aspects of foraging behavior ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Impact of Weather on Kingbird Foraging Behavior Author: Murphy, Michael T. Year: 1987 Foraging data on Eastern Kingbirds (Tyrannus tyrannus) were collected during the early breeding season in eastern Kansas to test the hypothesis that foraging rate and other aspects of foraging behavior vary with weather. Foraging characteristics of five additional kingbird species were also examined to assess Fitzpatrick's (1980) generalization that kingbirds (Tyrannus spp.) are aerial hawking specialists. In Eastern Kingbirds, total foraging rate was independent of air temperature, cloud cover, wind speed, and time of day, but the rate of aerial hawking varied directly with air temperature and inversely with cloud cover (both P < 0.05). Effects of the two variables were additive. The percentage of foraging movements that were aerial hawks also increased with temperature and declined with cloud cover, and, hover-gleaning and perch-to-ground sallying were observed mainly during cloudy weather. Sally (i.e., foraging flight) distance correlated directly with perch height and air temperature, and large insects were captured almost exclusively in long upward or horizontal flights. I interpret these data to indicate that foraging behavior and the capture of large, flying insects depends on weather because of how it affects the activity of insect prey. Foraging data on kingbirds support Fitzpatrick's generalization, but the relative use of aerial hawking varies considerably among species. Resident Tropical Kingbirds( T. melancholicus) are the most specialized foragers, whereas the migrant and widely distributed Eastern Kingbird appears to be the most generalized. Certain habitats also appear to favor the use of particular foraging methods (e.g., outward striking in grasslands and perch-to-ground sallying in drier, open habitats). Title: The Impact of Weather on Kingbird Foraging Behavior Author: Murphy, Michael T. Year: 1987 Foraging data on Eastern Kingbirds (Tyrannus tyrannus) were collected during the early breeding season in eastern Kansas to test the hypothesis that foraging rate and other aspects of foraging behavior vary with weather. Foraging characteristics of five additional kingbird species were also examined to assess Fitzpatrick's (1980) generalization that kingbirds (Tyrannus spp.) are aerial hawking specialists. In Eastern Kingbirds, total foraging rate was independent of air temperature, cloud cover, wind speed, and time of day, but the rate of aerial hawking varied directly with air temperature and inversely with cloud cover (both P < 0.05). Effects of the two variables were additive. The percentage of foraging movements that were aerial hawks also increased with temperature and declined with cloud cover, and, hover-gleaning and perch-to-ground sallying were observed mainly during cloudy weather. Sally (i.e., foraging flight) distance correlated directly with perch height and air temperature, and large insects were captured almost exclusively in long upward or horizontal flights. I interpret these data to indicate that foraging behavior and the capture of large, flying insects depends on weather because of how it affects the activity of insect prey. Foraging data on kingbirds support Fitzpatrick's generalization, but the relative use of aerial hawking varies considerably among species. Resident Tropical Kingbirds( T. melancholicus) are the most specialized foragers, whereas the migrant and widely distributed Eastern Kingbird appears to be the most generalized. Certain habitats also appear to favor the use of particular foraging methods (e.g., outward striking in grasslands and perch-to-ground sallying in drier, open habitats). Close

• 11. [Article] Demography of a Ground Nesting Bird in an Urban System: Are Populations Self-Sustaining?

  Urbanization poses threats to earth’s biota, and retention of remnant native habitat in protected areas within expanding urban boundaries may help alleviate threats to wildlife. However, it is unclear ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Demography of a Ground Nesting Bird in an Urban System: Are Populations Self-Sustaining? Author: Bartos Smith, Sarah, McKay, Jenny E., Richardson, Jennifer K., Shipley, Amy A., Murphy, Michael T. Year: 2016 Urbanization poses threats to earth’s biota, and retention of remnant native habitat in protected areas within expanding urban boundaries may help alleviate threats to wildlife. However, it is unclear for nearly all nonsynanthropic (i.e., not benefiting from an association with humans) species whether vital rates in urban habitats can sustain populations or if populations persist only through immigration from outside the urban boundary. We conducted a three-year study of spotted towhees (Aves: Pipilo maculatus) breeding in four undeveloped parks in Portland, OR, USA, to measure park-specific seasonal reproductive output (F) and annual adult survival (SA). We developed a stochastic model that combined F and SA with an estimate of first-year survival to measure population growth rate (λ) in all parks assumed to be closed to immigration. F differed among parks but SA did not. Relatively high F was possible because many pairs raised >1 brood/season. When combined with empirical estimates of survival through the 30-day period of post-fledging parental care (SD = 0.645), only 2 of 4 parks were self-sustaining (i.e., λ > 1.0). However, SD reflected substantial loss of fledglings to domestic cats (Felis catus). Assuming no loss to cats and either partial compensatory or additive mortality of fledglings substantially improved prospects of population persistence for declining (sink) populations. Moreover, allowing low levels of immigration to sinks reversed population declines in most parks even when vital rates were insufficient to maintain populations. Our results suggest that nonsynanthropic bird species can persist in urban landscapes, but also that offspring mortality in the post-fledging period may be a critical determinant of population viability. Title: Demography of a Ground Nesting Bird in an Urban System: Are Populations Self-Sustaining? Author: Bartos Smith, Sarah, McKay, Jenny E., Richardson, Jennifer K., Shipley, Amy A., Murphy, Michael T. Year: 2016 Urbanization poses threats to earth’s biota, and retention of remnant native habitat in protected areas within expanding urban boundaries may help alleviate threats to wildlife. However, it is unclear for nearly all nonsynanthropic (i.e., not benefiting from an association with humans) species whether vital rates in urban habitats can sustain populations or if populations persist only through immigration from outside the urban boundary. We conducted a three-year study of spotted towhees (Aves: Pipilo maculatus) breeding in four undeveloped parks in Portland, OR, USA, to measure park-specific seasonal reproductive output (F) and annual adult survival (SA). We developed a stochastic model that combined F and SA with an estimate of first-year survival to measure population growth rate (λ) in all parks assumed to be closed to immigration. F differed among parks but SA did not. Relatively high F was possible because many pairs raised >1 brood/season. When combined with empirical estimates of survival through the 30-day period of post-fledging parental care (SD = 0.645), only 2 of 4 parks were self-sustaining (i.e., λ > 1.0). However, SD reflected substantial loss of fledglings to domestic cats (Felis catus). Assuming no loss to cats and either partial compensatory or additive mortality of fledglings substantially improved prospects of population persistence for declining (sink) populations. Moreover, allowing low levels of immigration to sinks reversed population declines in most parks even when vital rates were insufficient to maintain populations. Our results suggest that nonsynanthropic bird species can persist in urban landscapes, but also that offspring mortality in the post-fledging period may be a critical determinant of population viability. Close

• 12. [Article] The analysis and use of methodologies for the study of the diets of long-eared owls from three environments in north central Oregon

  Part I of this study presents a procedure for standardization of pellet analysis methodologies which improves estimation of prey biomass and determines the number of pellets needed to estimate prey diversity ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The analysis and use of methodologies for the study of the diets of long-eared owls from three environments in north central Oregon Author: Barss, John M. Year: 1985 Part I of this study presents a procedure for standardization of pellet analysis methodologies which improves estimation of prey biomass and determines the number of pellets needed to estimate prey diversity indices. The procedure was developed to provide a simple, easily replicated methodology for the study of pellets which also retains maximal data recorded from pellet analysis. A sample size of ten Long-eared Owl pellets was found adequate to calculate diversity indices with no significant loss of accuracy when compared to total pellets recovered from beneath a roosting site. Analysis of the total sample of pellets from a specific roost provided information on intraspecies size selection by Long-eared Owls and also increased the probability of finding remains of rare prey in pellets from the areas studied. Part II of this study investigates the influences of seasonality and habitat differences on prey selection by Long-eared Owls in north-central Oregon. Differences in habitat where Long-eared Owls foraged were found to significantly influence prey species selection of Thomomys talpoides , Lagurus curtatus, Peromyscus maniculatus, Microtus montanus, and Perognathus parvus. Significant seasonal differences were also observed in the consumption of T. talpoides and M. montanus. Analysis of intraspecific size selection of northern pocket gophers by Long-eared Owls supports the observation that size of prey influences the foraging strategies of Long-eared Owls to a greater degree than does species composition. Title: The analysis and use of methodologies for the study of the diets of long-eared owls from three environments in north central Oregon Author: Barss, John M. Year: 1985 Part I of this study presents a procedure for standardization of pellet analysis methodologies which improves estimation of prey biomass and determines the number of pellets needed to estimate prey diversity indices. The procedure was developed to provide a simple, easily replicated methodology for the study of pellets which also retains maximal data recorded from pellet analysis. A sample size of ten Long-eared Owl pellets was found adequate to calculate diversity indices with no significant loss of accuracy when compared to total pellets recovered from beneath a roosting site. Analysis of the total sample of pellets from a specific roost provided information on intraspecies size selection by Long-eared Owls and also increased the probability of finding remains of rare prey in pellets from the areas studied. Part II of this study investigates the influences of seasonality and habitat differences on prey selection by Long-eared Owls in north-central Oregon. Differences in habitat where Long-eared Owls foraged were found to significantly influence prey species selection of Thomomys talpoides , Lagurus curtatus, Peromyscus maniculatus, Microtus montanus, and Perognathus parvus. Significant seasonal differences were also observed in the consumption of T. talpoides and M. montanus. Analysis of intraspecific size selection of northern pocket gophers by Long-eared Owls supports the observation that size of prey influences the foraging strategies of Long-eared Owls to a greater degree than does species composition. Close

• 13. [Article] Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Micro-UAVs, Drones) in Plant Ecology

  Premise of the study: Low-elevation surveys with small aerial drones (micro–unmanned aerial vehicles [UAVs]) may be used for a wide variety of applications in plant ecology, including mapping vegetation ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Micro-UAVs, Drones) in Plant Ecology Author: Cruzan, Mitchell B., Weinstein, Ben G., Grasty, Monica R., Kohrn, Brendan F., Hendrickson, Elizabeth C., Arredondo, Tina M., Thompson, Pamela G. Year: 2016 Premise of the study: Low-elevation surveys with small aerial drones (micro–unmanned aerial vehicles [UAVs]) may be used for a wide variety of applications in plant ecology, including mapping vegetation over small- to medium-sized regions. We provide an overview of methods and procedures for conducting surveys and illustrate some of these applications. Methods: Aerial images were obtained by flying a small drone along transects over the area of interest. Images were used to create a composite image (orthomosaic) and a digital surface model (DSM). Vegetation classification was conducted manually and using an automated routine. Coverage of an individual species was estimated from aerial images. Results: We created a vegetation map for the entire region from the orthomosaic and DSM, and mapped the density of one species. Comparison of our manual and automated habitat classification confirmed that our mapping methods were accurate. A species with high contrast to the background matrix allowed adequate estimate of its coverage. Discussion: The example surveys demonstrate that small aerial drones are capable of gathering large amounts of information on the distribution of vegetation and individual species with minimal impact to sensitive habitats. Low-elevation aerial surveys have potential for a wide range of applications in plant ecology. Title: Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Micro-UAVs, Drones) in Plant Ecology Author: Cruzan, Mitchell B., Weinstein, Ben G., Grasty, Monica R., Kohrn, Brendan F., Hendrickson, Elizabeth C., Arredondo, Tina M., Thompson, Pamela G. Year: 2016 Premise of the study: Low-elevation surveys with small aerial drones (micro–unmanned aerial vehicles [UAVs]) may be used for a wide variety of applications in plant ecology, including mapping vegetation over small- to medium-sized regions. We provide an overview of methods and procedures for conducting surveys and illustrate some of these applications. Methods: Aerial images were obtained by flying a small drone along transects over the area of interest. Images were used to create a composite image (orthomosaic) and a digital surface model (DSM). Vegetation classification was conducted manually and using an automated routine. Coverage of an individual species was estimated from aerial images. Results: We created a vegetation map for the entire region from the orthomosaic and DSM, and mapped the density of one species. Comparison of our manual and automated habitat classification confirmed that our mapping methods were accurate. A species with high contrast to the background matrix allowed adequate estimate of its coverage. Discussion: The example surveys demonstrate that small aerial drones are capable of gathering large amounts of information on the distribution of vegetation and individual species with minimal impact to sensitive habitats. Low-elevation aerial surveys have potential for a wide range of applications in plant ecology. Close

• 14. [Article] Mammals of the Bull Run

  This study of mammals of the Bull Run Planning Unit has a dual character. First, mammals of special scientific or natural history interest such as threatened or endangered species were sought. This was ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Mammals of the Bull Run Author: Thatcher, Edward M. Year: 1976 This study of mammals of the Bull Run Planning Unit has a dual character. First, mammals of special scientific or natural history interest such as threatened or endangered species were sought. This was in conjunction with a Mt. Hood Bull Run Planning Unit. Second, a zoogeographical study of mammals of the Bull Run was performed. Abundance and distributional data was recorded for each species observed. This data was related to availability to moisture as indicated by plant associations trapped. Difference in habitat utilization along a moisture gradient was investigated as a possible coexistence mechanism for sympatric small mammals in the Bull Run Planning Unit. Title: Mammals of the Bull Run Author: Thatcher, Edward M. Year: 1976 This study of mammals of the Bull Run Planning Unit has a dual character. First, mammals of special scientific or natural history interest such as threatened or endangered species were sought. This was in conjunction with a Mt. Hood Bull Run Planning Unit. Second, a zoogeographical study of mammals of the Bull Run was performed. Abundance and distributional data was recorded for each species observed. This data was related to availability to moisture as indicated by plant associations trapped. Difference in habitat utilization along a moisture gradient was investigated as a possible coexistence mechanism for sympatric small mammals in the Bull Run Planning Unit. Close

• 15. [Article] Snowy Plover Buried Alive by Wind-blown Sand

  Brief description of an encounter with a Snowy Plover discovered at a nest site near the mouth of Tahkenitch Creek in Douglas County, Oregon. The plover was buried up to its neck in sand, presumably caused ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Snowy Plover Buried Alive by Wind-blown Sand Author: Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A., Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen A., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2012 Brief description of an encounter with a Snowy Plover discovered at a nest site near the mouth of Tahkenitch Creek in Douglas County, Oregon. The plover was buried up to its neck in sand, presumably caused by high winds. The article describes the authors' efforts to resuscitate the plover. Title: Snowy Plover Buried Alive by Wind-blown Sand Author: Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A., Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen A., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2012 Brief description of an encounter with a Snowy Plover discovered at a nest site near the mouth of Tahkenitch Creek in Douglas County, Oregon. The plover was buried up to its neck in sand, presumably caused by high winds. The article describes the authors' efforts to resuscitate the plover. Close

• 16. [Article] Temporary Environments

  This is a book chapter within Extremophile Fishes. This book summarizes the key adaptations enabling extremophile fishes to survive under harsh environmental conditions. It reviews the most recent research ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Temporary Environments Author: Polacik, Matej, Podrabsky, Jason E. Year: 2015 This is a book chapter within Extremophile Fishes. This book summarizes the key adaptations enabling extremophile fishes to survive under harsh environmental conditions. It reviews the most recent research on acidic, Antarctic, cave, desert, hypersaline, hypoxic, temporary, and fast-flowing habitats, as well as naturally and anthropogenically toxic waters, while pointing out generalities that are evident across different study systems. Knowledge of the different adaptations that allow fish to cope with stressful environmental conditions furthers our understanding of basic physiological, ecological, and evolutionary principles. In several cases, evidence is provided for how the adaptation to extreme environments promotes the emergence of new species. Furthermore, a link is made to conservation biology, and how human activities have exacerbated existing extreme environments and created new ones. The book concludes with a discussion of major open questions in our understanding of the ecology and evolution of life in extreme environments. Title: Temporary Environments Author: Polacik, Matej, Podrabsky, Jason E. Year: 2015 This is a book chapter within Extremophile Fishes. This book summarizes the key adaptations enabling extremophile fishes to survive under harsh environmental conditions. It reviews the most recent research on acidic, Antarctic, cave, desert, hypersaline, hypoxic, temporary, and fast-flowing habitats, as well as naturally and anthropogenically toxic waters, while pointing out generalities that are evident across different study systems. Knowledge of the different adaptations that allow fish to cope with stressful environmental conditions furthers our understanding of basic physiological, ecological, and evolutionary principles. In several cases, evidence is provided for how the adaptation to extreme environments promotes the emergence of new species. Furthermore, a link is made to conservation biology, and how human activities have exacerbated existing extreme environments and created new ones. The book concludes with a discussion of major open questions in our understanding of the ecology and evolution of life in extreme environments. Close

• 17. [Article] Biogeography and species density distributions of Tasmanian mammals

  Separated from mainland Australia by the Bass Strait, Tasmania has acted as an island preserve maintaining large populations of many mammalian species presently uncommon, rare, or extinct on mainland Australia. There ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biogeography and species density distributions of Tasmanian mammals Author: Bevers, Jerry E. Year: 1990 Separated from mainland Australia by the Bass Strait, Tasmania has acted as an island preserve maintaining large populations of many mammalian species presently uncommon, rare, or extinct on mainland Australia. There are few studies of Tasmanian mammal distributions. Recent distributional maps, based on information from surveys and mammal specimens, allowed for an investigation of the species density distributions of the terrestrial mammals of Tasmania. Compilation of species' distributional information into species density distributions provides an overview as to which areas may provide the most significant habitat for the greatest number of species; what geographic variations may influence species distributions; and which regions remain least surveyed for mammalian species in Tasmania. Title: Biogeography and species density distributions of Tasmanian mammals Author: Bevers, Jerry E. Year: 1990 Separated from mainland Australia by the Bass Strait, Tasmania has acted as an island preserve maintaining large populations of many mammalian species presently uncommon, rare, or extinct on mainland Australia. There are few studies of Tasmanian mammal distributions. Recent distributional maps, based on information from surveys and mammal specimens, allowed for an investigation of the species density distributions of the terrestrial mammals of Tasmania. Compilation of species' distributional information into species density distributions provides an overview as to which areas may provide the most significant habitat for the greatest number of species; what geographic variations may influence species distributions; and which regions remain least surveyed for mammalian species in Tasmania. Close

• 18. [Article] StreamNet: an integrated information system serving fisheries scientists and managers in the Columbia River Basin - or - is innovation possible when differing traditions collide?

  StreamNet is a project which brings together fisheries information collected by state agencies, federal agencies, and Indian tribes in a system of interconnected sets of data about anadromous fish in the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: StreamNet: an integrated information system serving fisheries scientists and managers in the Columbia River Basin - or - is innovation possible when differing traditions collide? Author: Siegel, Gretta E. Year: 1996 StreamNet is a project which brings together fisheries information collected by state agencies, federal agencies, and Indian tribes in a system of interconnected sets of data about anadromous fish in the Columbia River Basin. The data are used to observe trends in stock abundance escapement, hatchery production, etc. Each data point is linked to corresponding literature which can be searched separately in a references database. Plans are in progress to make this system available via the Internet. Data entry for the reference module is done via Microsoft Access. The application has been designed to include features of both a catalog and an index, and, through creative programming, has been successful in serving the project as both. Documents are housed in the library at the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission. StreamNet is a cooperative project of the tribes, the state fisheries agencies of Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Montana federal fisheries agencies, and the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission. The project is funded by the Bonneville Power Administration. Title: StreamNet: an integrated information system serving fisheries scientists and managers in the Columbia River Basin - or - is innovation possible when differing traditions collide? Author: Siegel, Gretta E. Year: 1996 StreamNet is a project which brings together fisheries information collected by state agencies, federal agencies, and Indian tribes in a system of interconnected sets of data about anadromous fish in the Columbia River Basin. The data are used to observe trends in stock abundance escapement, hatchery production, etc. Each data point is linked to corresponding literature which can be searched separately in a references database. Plans are in progress to make this system available via the Internet. Data entry for the reference module is done via Microsoft Access. The application has been designed to include features of both a catalog and an index, and, through creative programming, has been successful in serving the project as both. Documents are housed in the library at the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission. StreamNet is a cooperative project of the tribes, the state fisheries agencies of Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Montana federal fisheries agencies, and the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission. The project is funded by the Bonneville Power Administration. Close

• 19. [Article] Desert Environments

  This is a book chapter within Extremophile Fishes. This book summarizes the key adaptations enabling extremophile fishes to survive under harsh environmental conditions. It reviews the most recent research ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Desert Environments Author: Hillyard, Stanley D., Podrabsky, Jason E., van Breukelen, Frank Year: 2015 This is a book chapter within Extremophile Fishes. This book summarizes the key adaptations enabling extremophile fishes to survive under harsh environmental conditions. It reviews the most recent research on acidic, Antarctic, cave, desert, hypersaline, hypoxic, temporary, and fast-flowing habitats, as well as naturally and anthropogenically toxic waters, while pointing out generalities that are evident across different study systems. Knowledge of the different adaptations that allow fish to cope with stressful environmental conditions furthers our understanding of basic physiological, ecological, and evolutionary principles. In several cases, evidence is provided for how the adaptation to extreme environments promotes the emergence of new species. Furthermore, a link is made to conservation biology, and how human activities have exacerbated existing extreme environments and created new ones. The book concludes with a discussion of major open questions in our understanding of the ecology and evolution of life in extreme environments. Title: Desert Environments Author: Hillyard, Stanley D., Podrabsky, Jason E., van Breukelen, Frank Year: 2015 This is a book chapter within Extremophile Fishes. This book summarizes the key adaptations enabling extremophile fishes to survive under harsh environmental conditions. It reviews the most recent research on acidic, Antarctic, cave, desert, hypersaline, hypoxic, temporary, and fast-flowing habitats, as well as naturally and anthropogenically toxic waters, while pointing out generalities that are evident across different study systems. Knowledge of the different adaptations that allow fish to cope with stressful environmental conditions furthers our understanding of basic physiological, ecological, and evolutionary principles. In several cases, evidence is provided for how the adaptation to extreme environments promotes the emergence of new species. Furthermore, a link is made to conservation biology, and how human activities have exacerbated existing extreme environments and created new ones. The book concludes with a discussion of major open questions in our understanding of the ecology and evolution of life in extreme environments. Close

• 20. [Article] Vocalizations of the Townsend chipmunk (Eutamias townsendii)

  This study describes and analyzes the vocalizations of the Townsend chipmunk (Eutamias townsendii) in Oregon. Tape recordings of calls were collected primarily from Forest Park in Portland (Oregon) during ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Vocalizations of the Townsend chipmunk (Eutamias townsendii) Author: Warner, Greig Michael Year: 1971 This study describes and analyzes the vocalizations of the Townsend chipmunk (Eutamias townsendii) in Oregon. Tape recordings of calls were collected primarily from Forest Park in Portland (Oregon) during 1970 and 1971, and sonograms of these recordings were produced. Findings were compared with those of Brand (1970) who investigated E. townsendii vocalizations in California. The prominent calls in the vocal repertoire of townsendii are the quist, the quirt, and the chipper. These calls all appear to be warning calls. The quist note is a a chevron-shaped (A) figure representing a sound which begins at a low frequency (1-2 KC), sharply rises to a peak at about 11 KC, and then drops sharply to the lower frequencies again. Quists are arranged into bursts, and bursts into sequences. The number of quists per burst and the frequency of the top of the note decreased significantly over time. The interval between burst increased significantly, while the interval between quists seems to increase over time. The variation in the quist rate and related character6istics between Oregon and California townsendii populations is probably a result of subspecific differences. There seems to be a trend in the sciurids from the specific vocal system (one definite meaning per call) of the forest dwellers towards the unspecific vocal systems of animal groups which live in the more open habitats. E. townsendii displays a specific vocal system in which each call seems to have a specific function. Title: Vocalizations of the Townsend chipmunk (Eutamias townsendii) Author: Warner, Greig Michael Year: 1971 This study describes and analyzes the vocalizations of the Townsend chipmunk (Eutamias townsendii) in Oregon. Tape recordings of calls were collected primarily from Forest Park in Portland (Oregon) during 1970 and 1971, and sonograms of these recordings were produced. Findings were compared with those of Brand (1970) who investigated E. townsendii vocalizations in California. The prominent calls in the vocal repertoire of townsendii are the quist, the quirt, and the chipper. These calls all appear to be warning calls. The quist note is a a chevron-shaped (A) figure representing a sound which begins at a low frequency (1-2 KC), sharply rises to a peak at about 11 KC, and then drops sharply to the lower frequencies again. Quists are arranged into bursts, and bursts into sequences. The number of quists per burst and the frequency of the top of the note decreased significantly over time. The interval between burst increased significantly, while the interval between quists seems to increase over time. The variation in the quist rate and related character6istics between Oregon and California townsendii populations is probably a result of subspecific differences. There seems to be a trend in the sciurids from the specific vocal system (one definite meaning per call) of the forest dwellers towards the unspecific vocal systems of animal groups which live in the more open habitats. E. townsendii displays a specific vocal system in which each call seems to have a specific function. Close

• 21. [Article] The Hyperthermophilic Archaeon Sulfolobus : from Exploration to Exploitation

  In the early 1970s, Sulfolobus was first isolated by Thomas Brock and co-workers from sulfur-rich acidic hot springs in Yellowstone National Park. Sulfolobus became one of the model organisms of Archaea ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Hyperthermophilic Archaeon Sulfolobus : from Exploration to Exploitation Author: Brouns, Stan J.J., Ettema, Thijs J.G., Stedman, Kenneth M., Walther, Jasper, Smith, Hauke, Snijders, Ambrosius P.L., Young, Mark, Bernander, Rolf, Wright, Phillip C., Siebers, Betina, Van der Oost, John Year: 2003 In the early 1970s, Sulfolobus was first isolated by Thomas Brock and co-workers from sulfur-rich acidic hot springs in Yellowstone National Park. Sulfolobus became one of the model organisms of Archaea in general, and of Crenarchaea in particular. Many of its unusual physiological characteristics have been investigated, and several of its thermostable enzymes have been studied in considerable detail. For fundamental reasons, and because of its potential for industrial applications, Sulfolobus has been selected for a genome sequence project. The recent completion of the Sulfolobus solfataricus genome has set the stage for a series of postgenome research lines that will be reviewed here. Comparative genomics aims to unravel the cell’s metabolic potential (enzymes, pathways, and regulation) and compare it to other organisms. This in silico analysis of Sulfolobus has revealed several unique metabolic features and confirmed that the major control processes (transcription, translation, and replication) resemble eukaryal much more than bacterial equivalents. Currently, several research groups use a functional genomics approach—a genomebased, high-throughput analysis of the complete Sulfolobus cell—at the level of RNA (transcriptomics), protein (proteomics), and metabolic intermediates and products (metabolomics). Apart from analyzing the cell’s response to different cultivation conditions, the comparison of different genotypes (wild type and mutants) would be very interesting for both basic science and applied reasons. Much effort has recently been put into the establishment of tools that allow genetic engineering of Sulfolobus. The future challenge is to integrate available knowledge in order to understand the relevant mechanisms that enable Sulfolobus to thrive in its extreme habitats. Moreover, such a Systems Biology approach is essential as a basis for the directed engineering and industrial exploitation of this unique microorganism. Title: The Hyperthermophilic Archaeon Sulfolobus : from Exploration to Exploitation Author: Brouns, Stan J.J., Ettema, Thijs J.G., Stedman, Kenneth M., Walther, Jasper, Smith, Hauke, Snijders, Ambrosius P.L., Young, Mark, Bernander, Rolf, Wright, Phillip C., Siebers, Betina, Van der Oost, John Year: 2003 In the early 1970s, Sulfolobus was first isolated by Thomas Brock and co-workers from sulfur-rich acidic hot springs in Yellowstone National Park. Sulfolobus became one of the model organisms of Archaea in general, and of Crenarchaea in particular. Many of its unusual physiological characteristics have been investigated, and several of its thermostable enzymes have been studied in considerable detail. For fundamental reasons, and because of its potential for industrial applications, Sulfolobus has been selected for a genome sequence project. The recent completion of the Sulfolobus solfataricus genome has set the stage for a series of postgenome research lines that will be reviewed here. Comparative genomics aims to unravel the cell’s metabolic potential (enzymes, pathways, and regulation) and compare it to other organisms. This in silico analysis of Sulfolobus has revealed several unique metabolic features and confirmed that the major control processes (transcription, translation, and replication) resemble eukaryal much more than bacterial equivalents. Currently, several research groups use a functional genomics approach—a genomebased, high-throughput analysis of the complete Sulfolobus cell—at the level of RNA (transcriptomics), protein (proteomics), and metabolic intermediates and products (metabolomics). Apart from analyzing the cell’s response to different cultivation conditions, the comparison of different genotypes (wild type and mutants) would be very interesting for both basic science and applied reasons. Much effort has recently been put into the establishment of tools that allow genetic engineering of Sulfolobus. The future challenge is to integrate available knowledge in order to understand the relevant mechanisms that enable Sulfolobus to thrive in its extreme habitats. Moreover, such a Systems Biology approach is essential as a basis for the directed engineering and industrial exploitation of this unique microorganism. Close

• 22. [Article] Some Coyote Food Habitat Patterns in the Shrub-Steppe of South-central Washington

  Coyote food habits were ascertained by identifying the undigested material in 1143 scats collected at monthly intervals from specific road transects on the USERDA Hanford Reservation in Washington from ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Some Coyote Food Habitat Patterns in the Shrub-Steppe of South-central Washington Author: Stoel, Peter Frederick Year: 1976 Coyote food habits were ascertained by identifying the undigested material in 1143 scats collected at monthly intervals from specific road transects on the USERDA Hanford Reservation in Washington from 1974 to 1976. Tracks at artificially established scent posts along the principal transect provided evidence that the scats were left by coyotes and not bobcats or badgers. On the basin plain (150m elevation) where the Aptemisia tpidentata/Poa sandbepgii Association predominates, the average monthly percent occurrences in the 491 scats collected in 1975 2 were pocket mouse 60, leporid 39, pocket gopher 12, grasshopper 12, fruit 10, cricetine mice 7, darkling beetle 6, bird 5, reptile 4, ground squirrel 4, microtine mice 3, and livestock 1.8. Pocket mice and leporids both occurred in every monthly sample of 1974-76. During the summer of 1974 grasshoppers were eaten in large quantities (85 percent occurrence), but the next year they were eaten less than half as frequently (37 percent) during the same period. Monthly numbers of pocket mice and cricetines live-trapped on a grid on the plain correlated significantly with the monthly percent occurrence in scats (r = .80, P < .001; and r = .~2, P < .02 respectively). Title: Some Coyote Food Habitat Patterns in the Shrub-Steppe of South-central Washington Author: Stoel, Peter Frederick Year: 1976 Coyote food habits were ascertained by identifying the undigested material in 1143 scats collected at monthly intervals from specific road transects on the USERDA Hanford Reservation in Washington from 1974 to 1976. Tracks at artificially established scent posts along the principal transect provided evidence that the scats were left by coyotes and not bobcats or badgers. On the basin plain (150m elevation) where the Aptemisia tpidentata/Poa sandbepgii Association predominates, the average monthly percent occurrences in the 491 scats collected in 1975 2 were pocket mouse 60, leporid 39, pocket gopher 12, grasshopper 12, fruit 10, cricetine mice 7, darkling beetle 6, bird 5, reptile 4, ground squirrel 4, microtine mice 3, and livestock 1.8. Pocket mice and leporids both occurred in every monthly sample of 1974-76. During the summer of 1974 grasshoppers were eaten in large quantities (85 percent occurrence), but the next year they were eaten less than half as frequently (37 percent) during the same period. Monthly numbers of pocket mice and cricetines live-trapped on a grid on the plain correlated significantly with the monthly percent occurrence in scats (r = .80, P < .001; and r = .~2, P < .02 respectively). Close

• 23. [Article] Some physical and biological factors affecting red-tailed hawk productivity

  Various physical and biological factors affecting annual productivity in a Red-tailed Hawk population in north-central Oregon were investigated. The percentage of the population successfully fledging one ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Some physical and biological factors affecting red-tailed hawk productivity Author: Janes, Stewart Wayne Year: 1979 Various physical and biological factors affecting annual productivity in a Red-tailed Hawk population in north-central Oregon were investigated. The percentage of the population successfully fledging one or more young was the most important factor in determining the number of young fledged per pair in a given year. Neither clutch size nor the number of young fledged per successful nest varied significantly. Percent pair success was correlated with several January weather variables. A cold and dry January is positively correlated with Red-tailed Hawk productivity. This is apparently related to the onset of rapid vegetative growth and this in turn is positively correlated with the timing of the emergence and reproductive cycle of the principal prey, Belding’s and Townsend's ground squirrels, (Turner 1972). Because a cold and dry January delays the emergence of ground squirrels, the period of emergence and dispersal of the young squirrels more closely corresponds to the time of peak food needs of the young Red-tailed Hawks, and greater pair success is observed. This relative abundance of prey appears to be of greater importance than actual abundance. Red-tailed Hawk productivity was found to correlate significantly with two habitat variables & the presence of adequate numbers of dispersed hunting perches and relative ground squirrel abundance. The presence of one or more perches per sixteenth section provided the best single correlation. Neither territory size nor competition from interspecifically territorial Swainson's Hawks were correlated with productivity of Red-tailed Hawk territories. Red-tailed Hawks with inhabited dwellings within their territories fledged significantly more young than those without. Title: Some physical and biological factors affecting red-tailed hawk productivity Author: Janes, Stewart Wayne Year: 1979 Various physical and biological factors affecting annual productivity in a Red-tailed Hawk population in north-central Oregon were investigated. The percentage of the population successfully fledging one or more young was the most important factor in determining the number of young fledged per pair in a given year. Neither clutch size nor the number of young fledged per successful nest varied significantly. Percent pair success was correlated with several January weather variables. A cold and dry January is positively correlated with Red-tailed Hawk productivity. This is apparently related to the onset of rapid vegetative growth and this in turn is positively correlated with the timing of the emergence and reproductive cycle of the principal prey, Belding’s and Townsend's ground squirrels, (Turner 1972). Because a cold and dry January delays the emergence of ground squirrels, the period of emergence and dispersal of the young squirrels more closely corresponds to the time of peak food needs of the young Red-tailed Hawks, and greater pair success is observed. This relative abundance of prey appears to be of greater importance than actual abundance. Red-tailed Hawk productivity was found to correlate significantly with two habitat variables & the presence of adequate numbers of dispersed hunting perches and relative ground squirrel abundance. The presence of one or more perches per sixteenth section provided the best single correlation. Neither territory size nor competition from interspecifically territorial Swainson's Hawks were correlated with productivity of Red-tailed Hawk territories. Red-tailed Hawks with inhabited dwellings within their territories fledged significantly more young than those without. Close

• 24. [Article] Nest Reuse by Eastern Kingbirds: Adaptive Behavior or Ecological Constraint?

  The reuse of old nests by open-cup nesting passerines is a seemingly rare but potentially adaptive behavior if, as a consequence, females begin to breed earlier, lay larger clutches, or fledge more young. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Nest Reuse by Eastern Kingbirds: Adaptive Behavior or Ecological Constraint? Author: Redmond, Lucas J., Murphy, Michael T., Dolan, Amy C. Year: 2007 The reuse of old nests by open-cup nesting passerines is a seemingly rare but potentially adaptive behavior if, as a consequence, females begin to breed earlier, lay larger clutches, or fledge more young. We report an unusually high rate of nest reuse (~10% of 341 nests) for Eastern Kingbirds (Tyrannus tyrannus) breeding at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon. We found no difference in availability of nesting habitat or food abundance in territories in which nests were and were not reused. We also found no support for the hypotheses that kingbirds benefited from nest reuse by breeding earlier, laying larger clutches, or fledging more young, and, contrary to expectations, females that reused nests laid significantly smaller eggs than females who built their own nests. Nest reuse was independent of age: a roughly equal number of females for which we had multiple years of data both reused nests and built new nests, but at different points in their lives. Competition for nest sites seems high at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge because many open-cup nesting species utilize similar nest sites in the limited zone of riparian vegetation. A shortage of high-quality nest sites, coupled with interspecific competition, may underlie the high frequency of nest reuse in this kingbird population. Title: Nest Reuse by Eastern Kingbirds: Adaptive Behavior or Ecological Constraint? Author: Redmond, Lucas J., Murphy, Michael T., Dolan, Amy C. Year: 2007 The reuse of old nests by open-cup nesting passerines is a seemingly rare but potentially adaptive behavior if, as a consequence, females begin to breed earlier, lay larger clutches, or fledge more young. We report an unusually high rate of nest reuse (~10% of 341 nests) for Eastern Kingbirds (Tyrannus tyrannus) breeding at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon. We found no difference in availability of nesting habitat or food abundance in territories in which nests were and were not reused. We also found no support for the hypotheses that kingbirds benefited from nest reuse by breeding earlier, laying larger clutches, or fledging more young, and, contrary to expectations, females that reused nests laid significantly smaller eggs than females who built their own nests. Nest reuse was independent of age: a roughly equal number of females for which we had multiple years of data both reused nests and built new nests, but at different points in their lives. Competition for nest sites seems high at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge because many open-cup nesting species utilize similar nest sites in the limited zone of riparian vegetation. A shortage of high-quality nest sites, coupled with interspecific competition, may underlie the high frequency of nest reuse in this kingbird population. Close

• 25. [Article] Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species of Oregon

  Extinction is a natural process. Today, however, plant and animal species are disappearing world-wide at an accelerated pace. Based on current trends, half of the species on earth will be extinct within ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species of Oregon Author: Kagan, James S., Vrilakas, Sue, Gaines, Eleanor P., Alton, Cliff, McArthur, Fern, Walsh, Kuuipo, Scheuering, Eric, Christy, John A., Hak, Jon, Tobalske, Claudine, Weiland, Annie, Koloszar, Theresa, Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center Year: 2004 Extinction is a natural process. Today, however, plant and animal species are disappearing world-wide at an accelerated pace. Based on current trends, half of the species on earth will be extinct within the next 100 years. The major cause of this phenomenon is large-scale destruction of native habitats, which has increased since European settlement began in the mid 1800's - in Oregon and throughout the New World. Once lost, a species can never be recovered, and there is no way of knowing how useful it may have been. We do know that human beings and many of their industries depend on plant and animal products. About 50% of all pharmaceuticals have a natural component as an active ingredient, yet less than one percent of the world's species have been chemically analyzed and tested. Many invertebrates and plants contain undescribed and highly functional compounds. Limnanthes floccosa subsp. grandiflora, or wooly meadow-foam, a rare plant that grows in southwest Oregon, has been recently found to produce a hybrid with the more common member of the genus, Limnanthes alba. This hybrid grows well in the poorly drained soils of the Willamette Valley and produces a valuable oil used for soaps, plastic and rubber production. In addition, the new hybrid meadow-foam does not require the field burning necessary for other crops. This species, and many other Oregon natives, will be lost without intervention. The purpose of this publication is to provide land managers, owners and interested parties with a list of those species in Oregon which are in greatest jeopardy. Title: Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species of Oregon Author: Kagan, James S., Vrilakas, Sue, Gaines, Eleanor P., Alton, Cliff, McArthur, Fern, Walsh, Kuuipo, Scheuering, Eric, Christy, John A., Hak, Jon, Tobalske, Claudine, Weiland, Annie, Koloszar, Theresa, Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center Year: 2004 Extinction is a natural process. Today, however, plant and animal species are disappearing world-wide at an accelerated pace. Based on current trends, half of the species on earth will be extinct within the next 100 years. The major cause of this phenomenon is large-scale destruction of native habitats, which has increased since European settlement began in the mid 1800's - in Oregon and throughout the New World. Once lost, a species can never be recovered, and there is no way of knowing how useful it may have been. We do know that human beings and many of their industries depend on plant and animal products. About 50% of all pharmaceuticals have a natural component as an active ingredient, yet less than one percent of the world's species have been chemically analyzed and tested. Many invertebrates and plants contain undescribed and highly functional compounds. Limnanthes floccosa subsp. grandiflora, or wooly meadow-foam, a rare plant that grows in southwest Oregon, has been recently found to produce a hybrid with the more common member of the genus, Limnanthes alba. This hybrid grows well in the poorly drained soils of the Willamette Valley and produces a valuable oil used for soaps, plastic and rubber production. In addition, the new hybrid meadow-foam does not require the field burning necessary for other crops. This species, and many other Oregon natives, will be lost without intervention. The purpose of this publication is to provide land managers, owners and interested parties with a list of those species in Oregon which are in greatest jeopardy. Close

• 26. [Article] Rare, Threatened and Endangered Plants and Animals of Oregon

  Extinction is a natural process. Today, however, plant and animal species are disappearing world-wide at an accelerated pace. Based on current trends, half of the species on earth will be extinct within ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Rare, Threatened and Endangered Plants and Animals of Oregon Author: Kagan, James S., Vrilakas, Sue, Gaines, Eleanor P., Alton, Cliff, Popper, Ken, Stern, Mark A., Scheuering, Eric, Christy, John A., Finnerty, Mary, Hak, Jon, Tovar, Anthony A., Murray, Michael, Tobalske, Claudine, Oregon Natural Heritage Program Year: 2001 Extinction is a natural process. Today, however, plant and animal species are disappearing world-wide at an accelerated pace. Based on current trends, half of the species on earth will be extinct within the next 100 years. The major cause of this phenomenon is large-scale destruction of native habitats, which has increased since European settlement began in the mid 1800's - in Oregon and throughout the New World. Once lost, a species can never be recovered, and there is no way of knowing how useful it may have been. We do know that human beings and many of their industries depend on plant and animal products. About 50% of all pharmaceuticals have a natural component as an active ingredient, yet less than one percent of the world's species have been chemically analyzed and tested. Many invertebrates and plants contain undescribed and highly functional compounds. Limnanthes floccosa subsp. grandiflora, or wooly meadow-foam, a rare plant that grows in southwest Oregon, has been recently found to produce a hybrid with the more common member of the genus, Limnanthes alba. This hybrid grows well in the poorly drained soils of the Willamette Valley and produces a valuable oil used for soaps, plastic and rubber production. In addition, the new hybrid meadow-foam does not require the field burning necessary for other crops. This species, and many other Oregon natives, will be lost without intervention. The purpose of this book is to provide land managers, owners and interested parties with a list of those species in Oregon which are in greatest jeopardy. Title: Rare, Threatened and Endangered Plants and Animals of Oregon Author: Kagan, James S., Vrilakas, Sue, Gaines, Eleanor P., Alton, Cliff, Popper, Ken, Stern, Mark A., Scheuering, Eric, Christy, John A., Finnerty, Mary, Hak, Jon, Tovar, Anthony A., Murray, Michael, Tobalske, Claudine, Oregon Natural Heritage Program Year: 2001 Extinction is a natural process. Today, however, plant and animal species are disappearing world-wide at an accelerated pace. Based on current trends, half of the species on earth will be extinct within the next 100 years. The major cause of this phenomenon is large-scale destruction of native habitats, which has increased since European settlement began in the mid 1800's - in Oregon and throughout the New World. Once lost, a species can never be recovered, and there is no way of knowing how useful it may have been. We do know that human beings and many of their industries depend on plant and animal products. About 50% of all pharmaceuticals have a natural component as an active ingredient, yet less than one percent of the world's species have been chemically analyzed and tested. Many invertebrates and plants contain undescribed and highly functional compounds. Limnanthes floccosa subsp. grandiflora, or wooly meadow-foam, a rare plant that grows in southwest Oregon, has been recently found to produce a hybrid with the more common member of the genus, Limnanthes alba. This hybrid grows well in the poorly drained soils of the Willamette Valley and produces a valuable oil used for soaps, plastic and rubber production. In addition, the new hybrid meadow-foam does not require the field burning necessary for other crops. This species, and many other Oregon natives, will be lost without intervention. The purpose of this book is to provide land managers, owners and interested parties with a list of those species in Oregon which are in greatest jeopardy. Close

• 27. [Article] Breeding success and nest site characteristics of the western bluebird on Parrett Mountain

  The lack of suitable nest sites may be a limiting factor for Western Bluebird populations inhabiting the upper Willamette Valley. Nest box trails have been established on the hills surrounding the Portland ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Breeding success and nest site characteristics of the western bluebird on Parrett Mountain Author: Sims, Marcia Diane Year: 1983 The lack of suitable nest sites may be a limiting factor for Western Bluebird populations inhabiting the upper Willamette Valley. Nest box trails have been established on the hills surrounding the Portland metropolitan area. Since their placement, approximately 25% of the boxes available have been used by Western Bluebirds as nest cavities. This study was undertaken to identify factors which might determine the selection of a nest box by Western Bluebirds and the subsequent nest success or failure. The breeding biology of Western Bluebirds using the nest box trail located on Parrett Mountain, Oregon in 1979 was investigated. Breeding season, mean clutch size, average incubation and nestling periods, and level of nest success were determined. Nest box dimensions, placement, and surrounding habitat features were quantified. Potentially important nest site characteristics were examined and tested for association with Western Bluebird nest box use and reproductive success. Western Bluebird nest box selection was random with regard to all of the characteristics studied except Solar Index and Nest Box Density. No correlation was seen between nest box characteristics and bluebird nest success. Title: Breeding success and nest site characteristics of the western bluebird on Parrett Mountain Author: Sims, Marcia Diane Year: 1983 The lack of suitable nest sites may be a limiting factor for Western Bluebird populations inhabiting the upper Willamette Valley. Nest box trails have been established on the hills surrounding the Portland metropolitan area. Since their placement, approximately 25% of the boxes available have been used by Western Bluebirds as nest cavities. This study was undertaken to identify factors which might determine the selection of a nest box by Western Bluebirds and the subsequent nest success or failure. The breeding biology of Western Bluebirds using the nest box trail located on Parrett Mountain, Oregon in 1979 was investigated. Breeding season, mean clutch size, average incubation and nestling periods, and level of nest success were determined. Nest box dimensions, placement, and surrounding habitat features were quantified. Potentially important nest site characteristics were examined and tested for association with Western Bluebird nest box use and reproductive success. Western Bluebird nest box selection was random with regard to all of the characteristics studied except Solar Index and Nest Box Density. No correlation was seen between nest box characteristics and bluebird nest success. Close

• 28. [Article] Transcriptomic Regulation of Alternative Phenotypic Trajectories in Embryos of the Annual Killifish <i>Austrofundulus limnaeus</i>

  The Annual Killifish, Austrofundulus limnaeus, survives the seasonal drying of their pond habitat in the form of embryos entering diapause midway through development. The diapause trajectory is one of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Transcriptomic Regulation of Alternative Phenotypic Trajectories in Embryos of the Annual Killifish <i>Austrofundulus limnaeus</i> Author: Romney, Amie Lynn Thomas Year: 2017 The Annual Killifish, Austrofundulus limnaeus, survives the seasonal drying of their pond habitat in the form of embryos entering diapause midway through development. The diapause trajectory is one of two developmental phenotypes. Alternatively, individuals can "escape" entry into diapause and develop continuously until hatching. The alternative phenotypes of A. limnaeus are a form of developmental plasticity that provides this species with a physiological adaption for surviving stressful environments. The developmental trajectory of an embryo is not distinguishable morphologically upon fertilization and phenotype is believed to be influenced by maternal provisioning within the egg based on observations of offspring phenotype production. However, incubation temperature may override any such maternal pattern suggesting an environmental influence on the regulation of developmental trajectory. We hypothesize that maternally packaged gene products coordinate the cellular events prior to the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MTZ) that determine developmental trajectory in embryos of A. limnaeus. In addition, we propose that environmentally responsive gene expression after the MTZ can sustain or override any such maternal provisioning. Using high-throughput RNA-sequencing, we have generated transcriptomic profiles of protein-coding messenger RNA and noncoding RNA during development in A. limnaeus. Embryos destined for either the diapause or escape phenotypes display unique expression profiles immediately upon fertilization that support hormone synthesis, well before the stage when phenotypes are morphologically distinct. At stages when the trajectories diverge from one another, differential expression of the vitamin D receptor signaling pathway suggests that vitamin D signaling may be a key regulator of developmental phenotype in this species. These data provide a critical link between maternal and environmental influences on the genetic regulation of phenotypic plasticity. These results will not only impact our understanding of the genetic mechanisms that regulate entrance into diapause, but also provide insight into the epigenetic regulation of gene expression and development. Uncovering genetic mechanisms in a system exhibiting alternative developmental trajectories will elucidate the role of maternal packaging in regulating developmental decisions, and in sustaining metabolic depression during diapause. Title: Transcriptomic Regulation of Alternative Phenotypic Trajectories in Embryos of the Annual Killifish <i>Austrofundulus limnaeus</i> Author: Romney, Amie Lynn Thomas Year: 2017 The Annual Killifish, Austrofundulus limnaeus, survives the seasonal drying of their pond habitat in the form of embryos entering diapause midway through development. The diapause trajectory is one of two developmental phenotypes. Alternatively, individuals can "escape" entry into diapause and develop continuously until hatching. The alternative phenotypes of A. limnaeus are a form of developmental plasticity that provides this species with a physiological adaption for surviving stressful environments. The developmental trajectory of an embryo is not distinguishable morphologically upon fertilization and phenotype is believed to be influenced by maternal provisioning within the egg based on observations of offspring phenotype production. However, incubation temperature may override any such maternal pattern suggesting an environmental influence on the regulation of developmental trajectory. We hypothesize that maternally packaged gene products coordinate the cellular events prior to the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MTZ) that determine developmental trajectory in embryos of A. limnaeus. In addition, we propose that environmentally responsive gene expression after the MTZ can sustain or override any such maternal provisioning. Using high-throughput RNA-sequencing, we have generated transcriptomic profiles of protein-coding messenger RNA and noncoding RNA during development in A. limnaeus. Embryos destined for either the diapause or escape phenotypes display unique expression profiles immediately upon fertilization that support hormone synthesis, well before the stage when phenotypes are morphologically distinct. At stages when the trajectories diverge from one another, differential expression of the vitamin D receptor signaling pathway suggests that vitamin D signaling may be a key regulator of developmental phenotype in this species. These data provide a critical link between maternal and environmental influences on the genetic regulation of phenotypic plasticity. These results will not only impact our understanding of the genetic mechanisms that regulate entrance into diapause, but also provide insight into the epigenetic regulation of gene expression and development. Uncovering genetic mechanisms in a system exhibiting alternative developmental trajectories will elucidate the role of maternal packaging in regulating developmental decisions, and in sustaining metabolic depression during diapause. Close

• 29. [Article] A Survey of Small Mammals on Islands in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers

  A survey of small mammals on eight islands in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers near Portland, Oregon was conducted in 1974. The islands were Govermnent , Sand, Lemon, McGuire and Sandy Islands in the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A Survey of Small Mammals on Islands in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers Author: Kirk, Gayle Year: 1976 A survey of small mammals on eight islands in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers near Portland, Oregon was conducted in 1974. The islands were Govermnent , Sand, Lemon, McGuire and Sandy Islands in the Columbia River and East, Ross and Hardtack Islands in the Willamette River. The objectives of the study were to ascertain and compare the kinds, distribution and relative densitites of small mammals . A variety of traps was used to capture the animals including Museum Special Rodent Traps , back- break mouse traps, scissor and guillotine- type stab mole traps , Sherman traps , modified Young traps and pitfalls . Most traps were set in linear transects . Trapping was conducted with the objective of sampling the major habitats on each island. Observations of scats, tracks , burrows and dead animals were also noted. One species of small marmnal , Sorex vargrans , was found on all eight islands . Microtus was found on five islands and Peromyscus maniculatus on four islands . Two islands yielded Scapanus townsendii. Glaucomvs sabrinus was found on only one island. I hoped that evidence would be found to prove or disprove that current theories of island biogeography would apply to river islands. However, data in this study were inadequate to allow calculation of precise indices of population densities . Therefore, I was unable to determine if theories of island biogeography do apply to these river islands. Title: A Survey of Small Mammals on Islands in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers Author: Kirk, Gayle Year: 1976 A survey of small mammals on eight islands in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers near Portland, Oregon was conducted in 1974. The islands were Govermnent , Sand, Lemon, McGuire and Sandy Islands in the Columbia River and East, Ross and Hardtack Islands in the Willamette River. The objectives of the study were to ascertain and compare the kinds, distribution and relative densitites of small mammals . A variety of traps was used to capture the animals including Museum Special Rodent Traps , back- break mouse traps, scissor and guillotine- type stab mole traps , Sherman traps , modified Young traps and pitfalls . Most traps were set in linear transects . Trapping was conducted with the objective of sampling the major habitats on each island. Observations of scats, tracks , burrows and dead animals were also noted. One species of small marmnal , Sorex vargrans , was found on all eight islands . Microtus was found on five islands and Peromyscus maniculatus on four islands . Two islands yielded Scapanus townsendii. Glaucomvs sabrinus was found on only one island. I hoped that evidence would be found to prove or disprove that current theories of island biogeography would apply to river islands. However, data in this study were inadequate to allow calculation of precise indices of population densities . Therefore, I was unable to determine if theories of island biogeography do apply to these river islands. Close

• 30. [Article] Predation Avoidance Response Behaviors, Oviposition and Distribution of the Intertidal Gastropod Lirularia succincta

  xiii, 141 p. : ill. (some col.)

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Predation Avoidance Response Behaviors, Oviposition and Distribution of the Intertidal Gastropod Lirularia succincta Author: McNeill, Myndee Year: 2011 xiii, 141 p. : ill. (some col.) Title: Predation Avoidance Response Behaviors, Oviposition and Distribution of the Intertidal Gastropod Lirularia succincta Author: McNeill, Myndee Year: 2011 xiii, 141 p. : ill. (some col.) Close

• 31. [Article] Intestinal Microbiota Diversity of Pre-Smolt Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Across Six Oregon and Washington Hatcheries

  The Pacific Northwest is known for its once-abundant wild salmonid populations that have been in decline for more than 50 years due to habitat destruction and commercial overexploitation. To compensate, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Intestinal Microbiota Diversity of Pre-Smolt Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Across Six Oregon and Washington Hatcheries Author: Yildirimer, Christina Carrell Year: 2017 The Pacific Northwest is known for its once-abundant wild salmonid populations that have been in decline for more than 50 years due to habitat destruction and commercial overexploitation. To compensate, federal and state agencies annually release hundreds of thousands of hatchery-reared fish into the wild. However, accumulating data indicate that hatchery fish have lower fitness in natural environments, and that hatchery rearing negatively influences return rates of anadromous salmonids. Recently, mounting evidence revealed that the richness and diversity of intestinal microbial species influence host health. We examined the gut microbiota of pre-migratory hatchery-reared steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) to assess microbial community diversity. The Cascade Mountains serve as an allopatric border between two distinct clades of steelhead that show significant differences in genomic and mitochondrial diversity. We identified differences in core microbiota of hatchery-reared fish that correlate with this divergent phylogeographic distribution. Steelhead sampled from hatcheries east of the Cascades had overall greater core gut microbiota diversity. These differences were found despite similarities in diet and rearing conditions. In addition to taxonomic variation across the geographic divide, we identified significant differences in metabolic pathways using PICRUSt gene prediction software. Our analysis revealed significant enrichment of genes associated with lipid metabolism in the gut microbiome of western fish. 8 of 19 individual lipid metabolism pathways were more prominent in western populations. Lipids are a vital nutritional component for teleost species involved in migration and subsequent return for spawning in natal environments. We hypothesize that the observed differences in lipid metabolism across this phylogenetic divide results from an increased ability of eastern Cascade (O. m. gairdneri) fish to utilize lipids taken in via the diet. This increased absorption and utilization would make lipids less available for the intestinal microbiota of the eastern fish, as evidenced by the lower abundance of lipid metabolism genes in the east. Our research utilizes information from the microbiome to understand the phenotypic implications occurring in segregated populations of hatchery-reared steelhead, further confirming elements of coevolution between an organism and its internal environment. Title: Intestinal Microbiota Diversity of Pre-Smolt Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Across Six Oregon and Washington Hatcheries Author: Yildirimer, Christina Carrell Year: 2017 The Pacific Northwest is known for its once-abundant wild salmonid populations that have been in decline for more than 50 years due to habitat destruction and commercial overexploitation. To compensate, federal and state agencies annually release hundreds of thousands of hatchery-reared fish into the wild. However, accumulating data indicate that hatchery fish have lower fitness in natural environments, and that hatchery rearing negatively influences return rates of anadromous salmonids. Recently, mounting evidence revealed that the richness and diversity of intestinal microbial species influence host health. We examined the gut microbiota of pre-migratory hatchery-reared steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) to assess microbial community diversity. The Cascade Mountains serve as an allopatric border between two distinct clades of steelhead that show significant differences in genomic and mitochondrial diversity. We identified differences in core microbiota of hatchery-reared fish that correlate with this divergent phylogeographic distribution. Steelhead sampled from hatcheries east of the Cascades had overall greater core gut microbiota diversity. These differences were found despite similarities in diet and rearing conditions. In addition to taxonomic variation across the geographic divide, we identified significant differences in metabolic pathways using PICRUSt gene prediction software. Our analysis revealed significant enrichment of genes associated with lipid metabolism in the gut microbiome of western fish. 8 of 19 individual lipid metabolism pathways were more prominent in western populations. Lipids are a vital nutritional component for teleost species involved in migration and subsequent return for spawning in natal environments. We hypothesize that the observed differences in lipid metabolism across this phylogenetic divide results from an increased ability of eastern Cascade (O. m. gairdneri) fish to utilize lipids taken in via the diet. This increased absorption and utilization would make lipids less available for the intestinal microbiota of the eastern fish, as evidenced by the lower abundance of lipid metabolism genes in the east. Our research utilizes information from the microbiome to understand the phenotypic implications occurring in segregated populations of hatchery-reared steelhead, further confirming elements of coevolution between an organism and its internal environment. Close

• 32. [Article] Winter Diet of Bobolink, a Long-Distance Migratory Grassland Bird, Inferred from Feather Isotopes

  Effective conservation of migratory bird populations depends on advancements in our understanding of processes throughout the life cycle. Fundamental information about wintering ecology (e.g., habitat ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Winter Diet of Bobolink, a Long-Distance Migratory Grassland Bird, Inferred from Feather Isotopes Author: Renfrew, Rosalind B., Hill, Jason M., Kim, Daniel H., Romanek, Christopher, Perlut, Noah G. Year: 2017 Effective conservation of migratory bird populations depends on advancements in our understanding of processes throughout the life cycle. Fundamental information about wintering ecology (e.g., habitat use and diet composition) remains limited, which limits assessment of threats to populations during winter. Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) is a year-round grassland obligate and Nearctic-Neotropical migrant that undergoes 2 complete molts each year, including a complete prealternate molt on the South American wintering grounds. This unusual winter molt provides a rare opportunity to examine, using stable isotope analysis, the timing and contribution of foraging resources in the Bobolink diet prior to northbound migration from disparate breeding populations. We compared winter diet composition among 3 breeding populations of Bobolinks and during 3 stages of winter molt using stable carbon isotope ratios. We used mixing models to compare the ratio of carbon-12 to carbon-13 isotope (d13C value) in feathers—grown on the wintering grounds but collected from individuals (n ¼ 105) breeding in Vermont, Nebraska, and North Dakota, USA—to estimate diet during early, middle, and late winter molt. Across the 3 breeding populations, Bobolinks relied on C3 sources for nearly one-third of their diet during the winter molt. Isotope data from feathers collected while growing on the wintering grounds from birds in rice vs. non-rice regions supported our assumption that C3 signatures are primarily due to a rice diet. The proportion of rice consumed was highest during late molt, corresponding with a period of greater rice availability to Bobolinks. Our results demonstrate that rice was a substantial component of the diet throughout the winter molt and was most exploited prior to northbound migration. Research is needed on the potential trade-offs of feeding on abundant cultivated rice, including its nutritional value and associated risks and conflicts from foraging in an agricultural setting. Title: Winter Diet of Bobolink, a Long-Distance Migratory Grassland Bird, Inferred from Feather Isotopes Author: Renfrew, Rosalind B., Hill, Jason M., Kim, Daniel H., Romanek, Christopher, Perlut, Noah G. Year: 2017 Effective conservation of migratory bird populations depends on advancements in our understanding of processes throughout the life cycle. Fundamental information about wintering ecology (e.g., habitat use and diet composition) remains limited, which limits assessment of threats to populations during winter. Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) is a year-round grassland obligate and Nearctic-Neotropical migrant that undergoes 2 complete molts each year, including a complete prealternate molt on the South American wintering grounds. This unusual winter molt provides a rare opportunity to examine, using stable isotope analysis, the timing and contribution of foraging resources in the Bobolink diet prior to northbound migration from disparate breeding populations. We compared winter diet composition among 3 breeding populations of Bobolinks and during 3 stages of winter molt using stable carbon isotope ratios. We used mixing models to compare the ratio of carbon-12 to carbon-13 isotope (d13C value) in feathers—grown on the wintering grounds but collected from individuals (n ¼ 105) breeding in Vermont, Nebraska, and North Dakota, USA—to estimate diet during early, middle, and late winter molt. Across the 3 breeding populations, Bobolinks relied on C3 sources for nearly one-third of their diet during the winter molt. Isotope data from feathers collected while growing on the wintering grounds from birds in rice vs. non-rice regions supported our assumption that C3 signatures are primarily due to a rice diet. The proportion of rice consumed was highest during late molt, corresponding with a period of greater rice availability to Bobolinks. Our results demonstrate that rice was a substantial component of the diet throughout the winter molt and was most exploited prior to northbound migration. Research is needed on the potential trade-offs of feeding on abundant cultivated rice, including its nutritional value and associated risks and conflicts from foraging in an agricultural setting. Close

• 33. [Article] The Impeccable Timing of the Apple Maggot Fly, <i>Rhagoletis pomonella</i> (Dipetera: Tephritidae), and its Implications for Ecological Speciation

  Speciation is the process by which life diversifies into discrete forms, and understanding its underlying mechanisms remains a primary focus for biologists. Increasingly, empirical studies are helping ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Impeccable Timing of the Apple Maggot Fly, <i>Rhagoletis pomonella</i> (Dipetera: Tephritidae), and its Implications for Ecological Speciation Author: Mattsson, Monte Arthur Year: 2015 Speciation is the process by which life diversifies into discrete forms, and understanding its underlying mechanisms remains a primary focus for biologists. Increasingly, empirical studies are helping explain the role of ecology in generating biodiversity. Adaptive radiations are often propelled by selective fitness tradeoffs experienced by individuals that invade new habitats, resulting in reproductive isolation from ancestral conspecifics and potentially cladogenesis. Host specialist insects are among the most speciose organisms known and serve as highly useful models for studying adaptive radiations. We are just beginning to understand the pace and degree with which these insects diversify. The apple maggot, Rhagoletis pomonella, is a well-studied insect whose eastern and southern populations are models for ecological speciation. Recently (40–65 ya), the fly has invaded the Pacific Northwestern United States through human-transported apples infested with larvae. There, populations of R. pomonella have rapidly colonized two novel hawthorn hosts whose fruiting times bracket apple’s (early-season native Crataegus douglasii and introduced C. monogyna, which fruits late in the season). The recent introduction might initiate host shifts, providing opportunities to examine the pace and mechanistic means with which host races (an evolutionary stage preceding speciation) become established. Here, I demonstrate that host-associated populations at a site in southwest Washington are partially allochronically isolated from one another, and life cycles temporally match with natal host fruit ripening times in sympatry. If spatially widespread, these temporal barriers could result in reproductive isolation and possibly cladogenesis. Implications of these findings reach beyond academic import, as R. pomonella is expanding not only its host range, but its geographic range is encroaching upon central Washington, the site of a multi-billion dollar per year apple-growing industry. Title: The Impeccable Timing of the Apple Maggot Fly, <i>Rhagoletis pomonella</i> (Dipetera: Tephritidae), and its Implications for Ecological Speciation Author: Mattsson, Monte Arthur Year: 2015 Speciation is the process by which life diversifies into discrete forms, and understanding its underlying mechanisms remains a primary focus for biologists. Increasingly, empirical studies are helping explain the role of ecology in generating biodiversity. Adaptive radiations are often propelled by selective fitness tradeoffs experienced by individuals that invade new habitats, resulting in reproductive isolation from ancestral conspecifics and potentially cladogenesis. Host specialist insects are among the most speciose organisms known and serve as highly useful models for studying adaptive radiations. We are just beginning to understand the pace and degree with which these insects diversify. The apple maggot, Rhagoletis pomonella, is a well-studied insect whose eastern and southern populations are models for ecological speciation. Recently (40–65 ya), the fly has invaded the Pacific Northwestern United States through human-transported apples infested with larvae. There, populations of R. pomonella have rapidly colonized two novel hawthorn hosts whose fruiting times bracket apple’s (early-season native Crataegus douglasii and introduced C. monogyna, which fruits late in the season). The recent introduction might initiate host shifts, providing opportunities to examine the pace and mechanistic means with which host races (an evolutionary stage preceding speciation) become established. Here, I demonstrate that host-associated populations at a site in southwest Washington are partially allochronically isolated from one another, and life cycles temporally match with natal host fruit ripening times in sympatry. If spatially widespread, these temporal barriers could result in reproductive isolation and possibly cladogenesis. Implications of these findings reach beyond academic import, as R. pomonella is expanding not only its host range, but its geographic range is encroaching upon central Washington, the site of a multi-billion dollar per year apple-growing industry. Close

• 34. [Article] Developmental Mechanisms that Support Genome Stability and Embryonic Survival in Stress-tolerant Embryos of the Annual Killifish <i>Austrofundulus limnaeus</i>

  In order to complete their life cycles, vertebrates require oxygen and water. However, environments are not always forgiving when it comes to constantly providing these basic needs for vertebrate life. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Developmental Mechanisms that Support Genome Stability and Embryonic Survival in Stress-tolerant Embryos of the Annual Killifish <i>Austrofundulus limnaeus</i> Author: Wagner, Josiah Tad Year: 2015 In order to complete their life cycles, vertebrates require oxygen and water. However, environments are not always forgiving when it comes to constantly providing these basic needs for vertebrate life. The annual killifish Austrofundulus limnaeus is possibly the most well described extremophile vertebrate and its embryos have been shown to tolerate extremes in oxygen, salinity, and water availability. This phenotype is likely a result of the annual killifish life history, which includes periods of temporary habitat desiccation and oxygen deprivation, and requires the production of stress-tolerant embryos that depress metabolism in a state of suspended animation, known as diapause. Over the past several decades, the basic morphology and physiology of annual killifish development has become better characterized. However, there are still basic cellular processes that remain to be described in annual killifish such as A. limnaeus. Specifically, changes in DNA structure, expression, and copy number are known to have profound impacts on the phenotype and survival of an organism. Little is known as to how A. limnaeus maintains genome integrity during cell stress, nor how the A. limnaeus nuclear and mitochondrial genomes may have evolved under the unpredictable conditions in which A. limnaeus thrive. Early annual killifish embryonic development is also characterized by a complete dispersion and subsequent reaggregation of embryonic blastomeres prior to formation of the embryonic axis. This unusual period of early development may provide a functional adaptation that allows annual killifish embryos to survive these extreme conditions. The overall goals of this project were to (1) characterize the ability of A. limnaeus to tolerate and repair DNA damage through enzymatic and developmental mechanisms, (2) to determine possible consequences of mitochondrial DNA sequence and copy number on the metabolism of A. limnaeus, and (3) to establish a draft genome of A. limnaeus for future comparative genome studies. The results of this project show that embryos of A. limnaeus have an impressive ability to survive and reverse high doses of DNA damage induced by ultraviolet-C (UV-C) radiation, especially when allowed to recover under photoreactivating light. Surprisingly, embryos that survived irradiation during blastomere dispersion phases were able to develop normally. Characterization of gene expression during embryonic development for genes important for axis formation and cellular differentiation suggests that A. limnaeus embryos may delay axis formation until several days after epiboly is complete, thus allowing time for cells that become damaged to be replaced by surrounding pluripotent cells. This outcome would represent first case of a developmental buffering stage in a vertebrate. A. limnaeus embryos are also unique in their mitochondrial response to anoxia. Whereas in other species the amount of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number fluctuates following extremes in oxygen availability, A. limnaeus embryonic mtDNA remains stable. Additionally, characterization of the fully sequenced A. limnaeus mitochondrial genome reveals possible evolutionary adaptations that may have facilitated dormancy and anoxia tolerance when compared to other species within the Order Cyprinodontiformes. The final chapter of this project characterizes the draft genome of A. limnaeus and I provide evidence suggesting that epigenetic DNA methylation that may be involved in regulating diapause. Title: Developmental Mechanisms that Support Genome Stability and Embryonic Survival in Stress-tolerant Embryos of the Annual Killifish <i>Austrofundulus limnaeus</i> Author: Wagner, Josiah Tad Year: 2015 In order to complete their life cycles, vertebrates require oxygen and water. However, environments are not always forgiving when it comes to constantly providing these basic needs for vertebrate life. The annual killifish Austrofundulus limnaeus is possibly the most well described extremophile vertebrate and its embryos have been shown to tolerate extremes in oxygen, salinity, and water availability. This phenotype is likely a result of the annual killifish life history, which includes periods of temporary habitat desiccation and oxygen deprivation, and requires the production of stress-tolerant embryos that depress metabolism in a state of suspended animation, known as diapause. Over the past several decades, the basic morphology and physiology of annual killifish development has become better characterized. However, there are still basic cellular processes that remain to be described in annual killifish such as A. limnaeus. Specifically, changes in DNA structure, expression, and copy number are known to have profound impacts on the phenotype and survival of an organism. Little is known as to how A. limnaeus maintains genome integrity during cell stress, nor how the A. limnaeus nuclear and mitochondrial genomes may have evolved under the unpredictable conditions in which A. limnaeus thrive. Early annual killifish embryonic development is also characterized by a complete dispersion and subsequent reaggregation of embryonic blastomeres prior to formation of the embryonic axis. This unusual period of early development may provide a functional adaptation that allows annual killifish embryos to survive these extreme conditions. The overall goals of this project were to (1) characterize the ability of A. limnaeus to tolerate and repair DNA damage through enzymatic and developmental mechanisms, (2) to determine possible consequences of mitochondrial DNA sequence and copy number on the metabolism of A. limnaeus, and (3) to establish a draft genome of A. limnaeus for future comparative genome studies. The results of this project show that embryos of A. limnaeus have an impressive ability to survive and reverse high doses of DNA damage induced by ultraviolet-C (UV-C) radiation, especially when allowed to recover under photoreactivating light. Surprisingly, embryos that survived irradiation during blastomere dispersion phases were able to develop normally. Characterization of gene expression during embryonic development for genes important for axis formation and cellular differentiation suggests that A. limnaeus embryos may delay axis formation until several days after epiboly is complete, thus allowing time for cells that become damaged to be replaced by surrounding pluripotent cells. This outcome would represent first case of a developmental buffering stage in a vertebrate. A. limnaeus embryos are also unique in their mitochondrial response to anoxia. Whereas in other species the amount of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number fluctuates following extremes in oxygen availability, A. limnaeus embryonic mtDNA remains stable. Additionally, characterization of the fully sequenced A. limnaeus mitochondrial genome reveals possible evolutionary adaptations that may have facilitated dormancy and anoxia tolerance when compared to other species within the Order Cyprinodontiformes. The final chapter of this project characterizes the draft genome of A. limnaeus and I provide evidence suggesting that epigenetic DNA methylation that may be involved in regulating diapause. Close

• 35. [Article] Quantifying the Impacts of a Novel Predator: The Distinctive Case of the Oregon Spotted Frog (<i>Rana pretiosa</i>) and the Invasive American Bullfrog (<i>Rana (Aquarana) catesbeiana</i>)

  The decline of the Oregon Spotted Frog (Rana pretiosa), a Pacific Northwest endemic now federally listed as threatened, has been attributed to several aspects of ecosystem alteration, primarily habitat ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Quantifying the Impacts of a Novel Predator: The Distinctive Case of the Oregon Spotted Frog (<i>Rana pretiosa</i>) and the Invasive American Bullfrog (<i>Rana (Aquarana) catesbeiana</i>) Author: Tidwell, Kyle Scott Year: 2017 The decline of the Oregon Spotted Frog (Rana pretiosa), a Pacific Northwest endemic now federally listed as threatened, has been attributed to several aspects of ecosystem alteration, primarily habitat degradation and loss. The introduced American Bullfrog (Rana (Aquarana) catesbeiana) has been widely implicated in those declines, but the basis of that contention has been difficult to characterize. The bullfrog occurring at every site of recent Oregon Spotted Frog extirpation has focused concern about its impact. Here, I present a suite of interconnected studies that examine the behavioral ecology of both species to better understand the potential for bullfrog-mediated Oregon Spotted Frog extirpation. I quantified Oregon Spotted Frog anti-predator behavior from the only known population successfully co-occurring with bullfrogs (Conboy Lake) and a population devoid of bullfrog impact (Big Marsh), and compared these behaviors to the predatory traits of the bullfrog. The initial study revealed that captive-reared individuals from the Oregon Spotted Frog population that has successfully co-occurred with bullfrogs respond faster to a predatory stimulus (measured as latency to response) than Oregon Spotted Frogs from a population not to exposed to bullfrogs. Subsequent field investigations of the approach distance allowed by a predator stimulus before taking evasive action (termed the flight initiation distance: FID) conducted with the Oregon Spotted Frog population co-occurring with bullfrogs first demonstrated that FID of recently metamorphosed bullfrogs is consistently greater than that of recently metamorphosed Oregon Spotted Frogs. Further, examination of FID across all post-metamorphic age classes of Oregon Spotted Frogs revealed that older frogs do not allow as close approach as recently metamorphosed Oregon Spotted Frogs. This age class shift in FID did not occur in the Oregon Spotted Frog population not exposed to bullfrogs. In the latter population, FID did not differ among age classes. Since the bullfrog might be driving this age-based change in anti-predator behavior, I explored the variation in strike distance of bullfrogs from the site of co-occurrence in both the field and laboratory to determine the extent of overlap with Oregon Spotted Frog FID. I found that the bullfrog strike distance significantly overlaps the FID of all ages of Oregon Spotted Frogs from the bullfrog-free site but only that of youngest (recently metamorphosed) frogs at the site of co-occurrence. Older Oregon Spotted Frogs from the site of co-occurrence generally escaped at distances greater than the strike distance of bullfrogs. I also collected > 880 bullfrogs from the site of co-occurrence and analyzed the stomach contents to assess their dietary trends. I found that bullfrogs consume Oregon Spotted Frogs at the site, but do not eat the larger (older) frogs. Moreover, the body size ratio between Oregon Spotted Frogs as prey and bullfrogs as predators suggests that nearly all of the adult size distribution of bullfrogs at Conboy would be incapable of preying on adult Oregon Spotted Frogs. Collectively, these studies strongly suggest that bullfrogs have altered the escape behavior of Oregon Spotted Frogs at Conboy Lake and that most adult Oregon Spotted Frogs at Conboy may have a size-based release from predation by bullfrogs. Implicit in this finding is that bullfrogs may pose a real threat via predation to other Oregon Spotted Frog populations with which they might come into contact where the distribution of bullfrog body sizes differ substantially from that at Conboy Lake. Title: Quantifying the Impacts of a Novel Predator: The Distinctive Case of the Oregon Spotted Frog (<i>Rana pretiosa</i>) and the Invasive American Bullfrog (<i>Rana (Aquarana) catesbeiana</i>) Author: Tidwell, Kyle Scott Year: 2017 The decline of the Oregon Spotted Frog (Rana pretiosa), a Pacific Northwest endemic now federally listed as threatened, has been attributed to several aspects of ecosystem alteration, primarily habitat degradation and loss. The introduced American Bullfrog (Rana (Aquarana) catesbeiana) has been widely implicated in those declines, but the basis of that contention has been difficult to characterize. The bullfrog occurring at every site of recent Oregon Spotted Frog extirpation has focused concern about its impact. Here, I present a suite of interconnected studies that examine the behavioral ecology of both species to better understand the potential for bullfrog-mediated Oregon Spotted Frog extirpation. I quantified Oregon Spotted Frog anti-predator behavior from the only known population successfully co-occurring with bullfrogs (Conboy Lake) and a population devoid of bullfrog impact (Big Marsh), and compared these behaviors to the predatory traits of the bullfrog. The initial study revealed that captive-reared individuals from the Oregon Spotted Frog population that has successfully co-occurred with bullfrogs respond faster to a predatory stimulus (measured as latency to response) than Oregon Spotted Frogs from a population not to exposed to bullfrogs. Subsequent field investigations of the approach distance allowed by a predator stimulus before taking evasive action (termed the flight initiation distance: FID) conducted with the Oregon Spotted Frog population co-occurring with bullfrogs first demonstrated that FID of recently metamorphosed bullfrogs is consistently greater than that of recently metamorphosed Oregon Spotted Frogs. Further, examination of FID across all post-metamorphic age classes of Oregon Spotted Frogs revealed that older frogs do not allow as close approach as recently metamorphosed Oregon Spotted Frogs. This age class shift in FID did not occur in the Oregon Spotted Frog population not exposed to bullfrogs. In the latter population, FID did not differ among age classes. Since the bullfrog might be driving this age-based change in anti-predator behavior, I explored the variation in strike distance of bullfrogs from the site of co-occurrence in both the field and laboratory to determine the extent of overlap with Oregon Spotted Frog FID. I found that the bullfrog strike distance significantly overlaps the FID of all ages of Oregon Spotted Frogs from the bullfrog-free site but only that of youngest (recently metamorphosed) frogs at the site of co-occurrence. Older Oregon Spotted Frogs from the site of co-occurrence generally escaped at distances greater than the strike distance of bullfrogs. I also collected > 880 bullfrogs from the site of co-occurrence and analyzed the stomach contents to assess their dietary trends. I found that bullfrogs consume Oregon Spotted Frogs at the site, but do not eat the larger (older) frogs. Moreover, the body size ratio between Oregon Spotted Frogs as prey and bullfrogs as predators suggests that nearly all of the adult size distribution of bullfrogs at Conboy would be incapable of preying on adult Oregon Spotted Frogs. Collectively, these studies strongly suggest that bullfrogs have altered the escape behavior of Oregon Spotted Frogs at Conboy Lake and that most adult Oregon Spotted Frogs at Conboy may have a size-based release from predation by bullfrogs. Implicit in this finding is that bullfrogs may pose a real threat via predation to other Oregon Spotted Frog populations with which they might come into contact where the distribution of bullfrog body sizes differ substantially from that at Conboy Lake. Close

• 36. [Article] Bayesian Methods for Comparing Species Physiological and Ecological Response Curves

  Many ecological questions require information on species' optimal conditions or critical limits along environmental gradients. These attributes can be compared to answer questions on niche partitioning, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Bayesian Methods for Comparing Species Physiological and Ecological Response Curves Author: Ashcroft, Michael B., Casanova-Katny, Angélica, Mengersen, Kerrie, Rosenstiel, Todd N., Turnbull, Johanna D., Wasley, Jane, Waterman, Melinda J., Zúñiga, Gustavo E., Robinson, Sharon A. Year: 2016 Many ecological questions require information on species' optimal conditions or critical limits along environmental gradients. These attributes can be compared to answer questions on niche partitioning, species coexistence and niche conservatism. However, these comparisons are unconvincing when existing methods do not quantify the uncertainty in the attributes or rely on assumptions about the shape of species' responses to the environmental gradient. The aim of this study was to develop a model to quantify the uncertainty in the attributes of species response curves and allow them to be tested for substantive differences without making assumptions about the shape of the responses. We developed a model that used Bayesian penalised splines to produce and compare response curves for any two given species. These splines allow the data to determine the shape of the response curves rather than making a priori assumptions. The models were implemented using the R2OpenBUGS package for R, which uses Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation to repetitively fit alternative response curves to the data. As each iteration produces a different curve that varies in optima, niche breadth and limits, the model estimates the uncertainty in each of these attributes and the probability that the two curves are different. The models were tested using two datasets of mosses from Antarctica. Both datasets had a high degree of scatter, which is typical of ecological research. This noise resulted in considerable uncertainty in the optima and limits of species response curves, but substantive differences were found. Schistidium antarcticiwas found to inhabit wetter habitats than Ceratodon purpureus, and Polytrichastrum alpinum had a lower optimal temperature for photosynthesis than Chorisodontium aciphyllum under high light conditions. Our study highlights the importance of considering uncertainty in physiological optima and other attributes of species response curves. We found that apparent differences in optima of 7.5 °C were not necessarily substantive when dealing with noisy ecological data, and it is necessary to consider the uncertainty in attributes when comparing the curves for different species. The model introduced here could increase the robustness of research on niche partitioning, species coexistence and niche conservatism. Title: Bayesian Methods for Comparing Species Physiological and Ecological Response Curves Author: Ashcroft, Michael B., Casanova-Katny, Angélica, Mengersen, Kerrie, Rosenstiel, Todd N., Turnbull, Johanna D., Wasley, Jane, Waterman, Melinda J., Zúñiga, Gustavo E., Robinson, Sharon A. Year: 2016 Many ecological questions require information on species' optimal conditions or critical limits along environmental gradients. These attributes can be compared to answer questions on niche partitioning, species coexistence and niche conservatism. However, these comparisons are unconvincing when existing methods do not quantify the uncertainty in the attributes or rely on assumptions about the shape of species' responses to the environmental gradient. The aim of this study was to develop a model to quantify the uncertainty in the attributes of species response curves and allow them to be tested for substantive differences without making assumptions about the shape of the responses. We developed a model that used Bayesian penalised splines to produce and compare response curves for any two given species. These splines allow the data to determine the shape of the response curves rather than making a priori assumptions. The models were implemented using the R2OpenBUGS package for R, which uses Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation to repetitively fit alternative response curves to the data. As each iteration produces a different curve that varies in optima, niche breadth and limits, the model estimates the uncertainty in each of these attributes and the probability that the two curves are different. The models were tested using two datasets of mosses from Antarctica. Both datasets had a high degree of scatter, which is typical of ecological research. This noise resulted in considerable uncertainty in the optima and limits of species response curves, but substantive differences were found. Schistidium antarcticiwas found to inhabit wetter habitats than Ceratodon purpureus, and Polytrichastrum alpinum had a lower optimal temperature for photosynthesis than Chorisodontium aciphyllum under high light conditions. Our study highlights the importance of considering uncertainty in physiological optima and other attributes of species response curves. We found that apparent differences in optima of 7.5 °C were not necessarily substantive when dealing with noisy ecological data, and it is necessary to consider the uncertainty in attributes when comparing the curves for different species. The model introduced here could increase the robustness of research on niche partitioning, species coexistence and niche conservatism. Close

• 37. [Article] Examination of Human Impacts on the Biodiversity and Ecology of Lichen and Moss Communities

  Globally, more than half of the world's population is living in urban areas and it is well accepted that human activities (e.g. climate warming, pollution, landscape homogenization) pose a multitude of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Examination of Human Impacts on the Biodiversity and Ecology of Lichen and Moss Communities Author: Prather, Hannah Marie Year: 2017 Globally, more than half of the world's population is living in urban areas and it is well accepted that human activities (e.g. climate warming, pollution, landscape homogenization) pose a multitude of threats to ecosystems. Largely, human-related impacts on biodiversity will hold consequences for larger ecological processes and research looking into human impacts on sensitive epiphytic lichen and moss communities is an emerging area of research. While seemingly small, lichen and moss communities exist on nearly every terrestrial ecosystem on Earth and contribute to whole-system processes (e.g. hydrology, mineral cycling, food web energetics) worldwide. To further examine human impacts on epiphytic communities, I conducted three studies examining urbanization and climate warming effects on epiphytic lichen and moss biodiversity and ecology. In the first study I revisited a historic urban lichen community study to assess how urban lichen communities have responded to regional air quality changes occurring over the last nearly two decades. I further investigated, for the first time, the biodiversity of urban tree canopy-dwelling lichen communities in a native coniferous tree species, Pseudotsuga menziesii. I found that urban parks and forested areas harbor a species rich community of lichens epiphytes. Further, I found evidence for the distinct homogenization of urban epiphytic lichen communities, suggesting that expanding beyond simplistic measures of biodiversity to consider community composition and functional biodiversity may be necessary when assessing the ecology and potential ecosystem services of epiphyte communites within urbanizing landscapes. Next, I present the first tall tree canopy study across a regional gradient of urbanization near Portland, Oregon, USA. I found that tall tree canopy epiphyte communities change dramatically along gradients of increasing urbanization, most notably by the transitioning of species functional groups from sensitive, oligotrophic species to a dominance of urban-tolerant, eutrophic species. The implications these dramatic shifts in species composition have on essential PNW ecosystem processes, like N-fixation and canopy microclimate regulation, is still not well understood and is difficult to formally evaluate. However, I find strong evidence that native conifer trees in urban areas may provide a diversity of essential ecosystem services, including providing stratified habitat for epiphyte communities and their associated micro arthropod communities and the scavenging of atmospherically deposited nutrients. Future work is needed to understand how losses in canopy N fixation and species with large biomass (both lichens and bryophytes) will affect nutrient and hydrologic cycling in the PNW region, which continue to undergo rapid growth and urbanization. The final chapter investigates the impacts of passive warming by Open Top Chambers (OTCs) in moss-dominated ecosystems located on the Western Antarctic Peninsula, an area of increasing climate warming. I compared species-specific temperature effects, moss canopy morphology, sexual reproductive effort and invertebrate communities between OTC and control moss communities for two moss species, Polytrichastrum alpinum and Sanionia uncinata, that make up over 65% of the terrestrial vegetative cover in the area. I found distinct reproductive shifts in P. alpinum under passive warming compared to controls. Moss communities under warming also had substantially larger total invertebrate communities than those in control moss communities, and invertebrate communities were significantly affected by moss species and moss reproductive effort. Further, substantial species-specific thermal differences among contiguous patches of these dominant moss species were revealed. These results suggest that continued warming will differentially impact the reproductive output of Antarctic moss species and is likely to dramatically alter terrestrial ecosystems dynamics from the bottom up. This combined work provides a diverse contribution to the field of epiphyte ecology and biology by providing new insights on how human impacts will affect epiphyte lichen and moss communities across diverse ecosystems, in light of a rapidly changing planet. Title: Examination of Human Impacts on the Biodiversity and Ecology of Lichen and Moss Communities Author: Prather, Hannah Marie Year: 2017 Globally, more than half of the world's population is living in urban areas and it is well accepted that human activities (e.g. climate warming, pollution, landscape homogenization) pose a multitude of threats to ecosystems. Largely, human-related impacts on biodiversity will hold consequences for larger ecological processes and research looking into human impacts on sensitive epiphytic lichen and moss communities is an emerging area of research. While seemingly small, lichen and moss communities exist on nearly every terrestrial ecosystem on Earth and contribute to whole-system processes (e.g. hydrology, mineral cycling, food web energetics) worldwide. To further examine human impacts on epiphytic communities, I conducted three studies examining urbanization and climate warming effects on epiphytic lichen and moss biodiversity and ecology. In the first study I revisited a historic urban lichen community study to assess how urban lichen communities have responded to regional air quality changes occurring over the last nearly two decades. I further investigated, for the first time, the biodiversity of urban tree canopy-dwelling lichen communities in a native coniferous tree species, Pseudotsuga menziesii. I found that urban parks and forested areas harbor a species rich community of lichens epiphytes. Further, I found evidence for the distinct homogenization of urban epiphytic lichen communities, suggesting that expanding beyond simplistic measures of biodiversity to consider community composition and functional biodiversity may be necessary when assessing the ecology and potential ecosystem services of epiphyte communites within urbanizing landscapes. Next, I present the first tall tree canopy study across a regional gradient of urbanization near Portland, Oregon, USA. I found that tall tree canopy epiphyte communities change dramatically along gradients of increasing urbanization, most notably by the transitioning of species functional groups from sensitive, oligotrophic species to a dominance of urban-tolerant, eutrophic species. The implications these dramatic shifts in species composition have on essential PNW ecosystem processes, like N-fixation and canopy microclimate regulation, is still not well understood and is difficult to formally evaluate. However, I find strong evidence that native conifer trees in urban areas may provide a diversity of essential ecosystem services, including providing stratified habitat for epiphyte communities and their associated micro arthropod communities and the scavenging of atmospherically deposited nutrients. Future work is needed to understand how losses in canopy N fixation and species with large biomass (both lichens and bryophytes) will affect nutrient and hydrologic cycling in the PNW region, which continue to undergo rapid growth and urbanization. The final chapter investigates the impacts of passive warming by Open Top Chambers (OTCs) in moss-dominated ecosystems located on the Western Antarctic Peninsula, an area of increasing climate warming. I compared species-specific temperature effects, moss canopy morphology, sexual reproductive effort and invertebrate communities between OTC and control moss communities for two moss species, Polytrichastrum alpinum and Sanionia uncinata, that make up over 65% of the terrestrial vegetative cover in the area. I found distinct reproductive shifts in P. alpinum under passive warming compared to controls. Moss communities under warming also had substantially larger total invertebrate communities than those in control moss communities, and invertebrate communities were significantly affected by moss species and moss reproductive effort. Further, substantial species-specific thermal differences among contiguous patches of these dominant moss species were revealed. These results suggest that continued warming will differentially impact the reproductive output of Antarctic moss species and is likely to dramatically alter terrestrial ecosystems dynamics from the bottom up. This combined work provides a diverse contribution to the field of epiphyte ecology and biology by providing new insights on how human impacts will affect epiphyte lichen and moss communities across diverse ecosystems, in light of a rapidly changing planet. Close