RUI:Biodiversity and Ecology of Tree Canopy Biota in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

University Of Central Missouri, Warrensburg MO

Investigators

Abstract

The objectives of this proposed research project are to: 1- complete the first comprehensive survey and inventory of tree canopy biodiversity from three meters to the upper canopy for biota represented by myxomycetes, other mycetozoan groups (protostelids and dictyostelids), fungi, mosses, liverworts, lichens, ferns, selected insect groups, and molluscs in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park 2- assemble a multidisciplinary research team of experts who will collect, identify, and curate this diverse group of organisms and serve as mentors who will give special lectures, slide shows, hands on identification of specimens, and field demonstrations to aid students in the recognition of specimens and collection of samples; 3-compare the assemblages of tree canopy organisms with those found on ground sites; 4-search for species new to science in all of the targeted groups of organisms; 5- sample for biota along vertical transects of individual trees at different heights to quantify the association of the relative species composition, abundance, and diversity of these assemblages with the available environmental characteristics (host tree species, vegetation type, height class, light, pH, and humidity); 6- compare the tree canopy-targeted groups and assemblages on different tree species; 7- provide research experiences for students that will enhance opportunities for postgraduate study. This study will determine if the biota (myxomycetes, protostelids, dictyostelids, fungi, mosses, liverworts, lichens, and ferns), of species assemblages, and communities found on the bark of living trees and vines above three meters differ from those found in habitats on ground sites. This project will assist in determining if these assemblages and communities can be predicted based on measured environmental parameters that will provide a basis for future comparisons with forests that are harvested using forestry management strategies. The methodology used to obtain samples from the tree canopy will be the double rope climbing technique that will enable the collector to access the treetops. Collections will be made from the tree canopy and also from moist chamber cultures in the laboratory. Statistical analysis of species assemblages identified from each tree will be compared. These species assemblages and communities are important since they are the first species to show signs of environmental degradation such as acid rain, sulfur and nitrogen dioxide deposits, and ozone. Data generated from this project will help park managers assess the environmental impacts of human factors not only in old growth forests but with any forest vegetation type. This project will involve four RUI (Research in Undergraduate Institutions) institutions collaborating in the study of the different targeted groups of organisms with an international component of experts from Norway, Russia, and Lithuania who will provide species identification for specific groups of organisms. Women and minorities who are underrepresented in field biology research will participate along with volunteers, park interns, undergraduate and graduate students, and key project personnel. Results will be highlighted in park interpretive exhibitions, website outreach, news media coverage (print and television), publication of articles in popular magazines, in refereed journals that will send a powerful conservation message for biodiversity.