The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the relationship between the different genders of the gynodioecious species P. foliosissimum and their mycorrhizal associates. Mcyorrhizal colonization of roots was quantified, and soil and plant tissue analyses were performed. Further, a full factor

In order to determine the degree of ecological damage inflicted as a result of mining operations around the Gothic area, three tailings piles were identified in Gothic and Crested Butte and an observational study of plant species on and around them carried out. It was found that both total numbers o

The results of a long-term experimental warming study, in a montane meadow in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, have shown that Artemisia tridentata (Common Sagebrush) is likely to increase in abundance under climate change, as perennial forb species decrease in abundance. This change in species comp

Brassicaceae plants, such as bittercress (Cardamine cordifolia) produce characteristic glucosinolates, which are secondary metabolites used as defense compounds to deter pathogens and insect herbivores, such as the leaf mining fly (Scaptomyza nigrita). These compounds are produced constitutively and

Animals are expected to maximize feeding success while minimizing predation risk; however, foraging and vigilance behaviors often conflict. I studied this trade-off in Golden- mantled ground squirrels (Spermophilus lateralis), with respect to human-created structures in Gothic, CO, site of the Rocky

Multi-species interactions profoundly affect community composition and function of ecosystems. Foraging behavior and resource allocation are two key factors that determine how species interact. This study investigates the role of floral nectaries and plant sex in mediating ant-aphid interactions on

We studied the effect of varying amounts of soil nitrogen on Linaria vulgaris and native species. Linaria vulgaris is an invasive weed in the Rocky Mountains that forms monocultures, hindering the growth of native plants. The Rocky Mountain soils are nitrogen-poor, and we expected nitrogen-reduced s

Sex and size allow for many different types of individuals within one species. These individuals can have different needs, which can influence responses to interaction, as well as what interactions take place between species members. We modeled how the sex and size of individuals of Valeriana edulis

Native Bombus species are in decline in the United States. Since pollinators are such integral species in a system, the extinction of a single Bombus species could potentially have far reaching consequences on crop production and plant reproduction necessary for species diversity ad agriculture. How

Riparian zones are widely recognized as important sources of high species diversity. High levels of food resources and habitat complexity in riparian zones attract large numbers of avian species, particularly in arid regions. However, less is known about the importance of riparian proximity in wet m

Previous studies have shown that plant species diversity, habitat type, elevation, and temperature affect ant community structure. In this study, I examined the roles of these factors at 10 sites in and around Gothic, CO in aspen stands and meadows. Data gathered through baiting experiments and pitf