Invasive plant rhizome production and competitiveness vary based on neighbor identity

• DOI: 10.1093/jpe/rtab024
• Publication Date: 2021-03-08T20:12:54Z
• Authors: Alyssa Laney Smith; Daniel Z Atwater; Wonjae Kim; David C Haak; Jacob N Barney
• Keywords: Ecotype

Abstract Aims Within-species genetic and phenotypic variation have well-known effects on evolutionary processes, but less is known about how within-species may influence community-level processes. Ecologically meaningful intraspecific might be particularly important in the context of anthropogenic impacts natural systems, such as agriculture species invasion, because human actions can cause strong selection pressures. Methods In a greenhouse study, we explored (30 accessions) ecotypic (representing agricultural nonagricultural habitats) biomass rhizome production response to inter- competition soil fertility Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense), widespread invasive weed. Important Findings Contrary our expectations previous results, did not find among ecotypes at this early life stage. However, that varied substantially depending competitor identity, treatments accessions. Rhizomes were 11% larger ecotype up 3-fold fertilized treatment; while increased by ~50% when fertilized, differ ecotypes. Interestingly, competition, produced 32% 20% mass with conspecific than competing interspecifically corn. Our results indicate species-specific competitive responses changes allocation neighbor identity; suggesting possibility adaptation shift under competition.