| Abstract Detail
Ecological Section Philbrick, Paula [1], Philbrick, C. Thomas [2]. Allelopathy in Castelnavia (Podostemaceae). Allelopathy is chemical interference, whereby a substance released by one species negatively affects another. Allelopathic interactions are important in structuring terrestrial plant communities by virtue of chemicals dispersed through soil, and influence the development of marine communities through active principles released into water. Observations suggest that an aquatic plant, Castlenavia princeps (Podostemaceae), produces allelopathic chemicals that inhibit the growth of other species in the same genus. Castelnavia princeps grows attached to rocks in swift currents of river-rapids. Areas clear of growth surround plants on exposed rocks along rivers in central Brazil. Configuration of the zone of inhibition is consistent with the release of a chemical principle. Analysis of photographic data from field surveys combined with results from exploratory tests in the laboratory, provide a means to evaluate probable explanations. Recruitment and growth dynamics are considered. The talk will involve a discussion of community development of species of Podostemaceae in rivers, and represents the first report of allelopathy possibly involving species in the family. Log in to add this item to your schedule
1 - University of Connecticut, Waterbury Branch, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, 99 East Main Street, Waterbury, CT, 06702, USA 2 - Western Connecticut State University, Biological & Environmental Sciences, 181 White Street, Danbury, CT, 06810, USA
Keywords: plant community species interaction angiosperm.
Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Sections Session: 28 Location: Council Chambers/SUB Date: Monday, July 28th, 2008 Time: 4:45 PM Number: 28005 Abstract ID:181 |