Abstract

Interpool distribution studies of 10 vernal pools on the Santa Rosa Plateau found area to be the best single predictor of species richness in each type of regression model evaluated. Area predicted most accurately in a mixed linear-curvilinear regression model (y = a + b log x). Area appeared to reflect ecologic diversity, because multiple linear regression models provided better predictions of species richness using combinations of physical characteristics which excluded area from the regression equation. In addition, species turnover was demonstrated in a single vernal pool that was evaluated.

Intrapool distribution was studied along a soil moisture/microtopographic gradient in a single vernal pool on Mesa de Colorado. Plant species were found to be both temporally and spatially segregated. Plant species abundances in individual sample plots are arranged in an approximate geometric series, with few species in each sample and dominance concentrated in only a few of these.

LLU Discipline

Biology

Department

Biology

School

Graduate School

First Advisor

Earl W. Lathrop

Second Advisor

Leonard R. Brand

Third Advisor

Norman M. Case

Fourth Advisor

Conrad D. Clausen

Fifth Advisor

Raymond E. Ryckman

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree Level

Ph.D.

Year Degree Awarded

1979

Date (Title Page)

8-1979

Language

English

Library of Congress/MESH Subject Headings

Pond flora -- California -- Santa Rosa Plateau; Pond ecology -- California -- Santa Rosa Plateau

Type

Dissertation

Page Count

x; 89

Digital Format

PDF

Digital Publisher

Loma Linda University Libraries

Usage Rights

This title appears here courtesy of the author, who has granted Loma Linda University a limited, non-exclusive right to make this publication available to the public. The author retains all other copyrights.

Collection

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Collection Website

http://scholarsrepository.llu.edu/etd/

Repository

Loma Linda University. Del E. Webb Memorial Library. University Archives

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