Ecological Genetic Variation in Seed Banks. II. Phenotypic and Genetic Differences Between Young and Old Subpopulations of Luzula Parviflora

Abstract

Genetic change over time in a population of Luzula parviflora was investigated by germinating seeds from a seed bank that was time-stratified beneath a solifluction lobe at Eagle Creek, Alaska. The oldest subpopulation was inferred to be approximately 150 years old. Seven censuses were conducted to compare morphological and growth traits between young (recently buried) and old subpopulations as well as between the young subpopulation and the active seed bank. When plants which germinated directly from the seed bank were grown in a common environment, subpopulations differed for nearly all variables measured (...)