Experimental Assessment of Butomus Umbellatus L. Growth and Expansion Using a Mesocosm Approach

Author

Christian Carter

Issuing Body

Mississippi State University

Advisor

Ervin, Gary

Committee Member

Madsen, John

Committee Member

Wallace, Lisa

Date of Degree

8-15-2014

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Biological Sciences

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Department of Biological Sciences

Abstract

Over the last century, flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus L.: Butomaceae) has escaped its native Eurasian range and has become a problematic species in North America. As an aquatic invasive species, flowering rush has degraded native wetlands and has interfered with human water usage. Although experimental work has been done regarding the reproductive biology of the species, few empirical studies regarding the ecology of the species have been conducted. The research reported here demonstrates that flowering rush is capable of aggressive clonal growth and propagation, and can perform well along a depth gradient from zero to 132cm. Proper management and control of invasive species relies on sound ecological knowledge of the target species, and this work aims to help gather that information.

URI

https://hdl.handle.net/11668/19744

Recommended Citation

Carter, Christian, "Experimental Assessment of Butomus Umbellatus L. Growth and Expansion Using a Mesocosm Approach" (2014). Theses and Dissertations. 2137.
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/td/2137