Quantifying small-scale genetic variation in the dominant salt marsh foundation plant (Spartina alterniflora) and its ecological impacts across natural and restored marshes

Implementing Organization

Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA), Louisiana State University (LSU), RESTORE Act Center of Excellence for Louisiana (LA-COE)

Overview

DWH Project Funding

$100,260

Known Leveraged Funding

$0

Funding Organization

The U.S. Department of Treasury

Funding Program

The RESTORE Act Funds Bucket 5: Centers of Excellence Research Grant Program

Details

Project Category

Science

Project Actions

Environmental Research

Targeted Resources

Wetlands/Marshes/Estuaries

Project Description

This project will conduct field surveys across the Louisiana coastline to assess Spartina genetic diversity, plant production, sediment properties, and the associated plant and invertebrate community between restored and natural salt marshes. The project will also investigate how different restoration techniques influence diversity and ecosystem function. Spartina genetic diversity will be assessed using microsatellite markers that allow for the identification of individual genotypes, and statistical comparisons will include population and community response variables between restored and natural marshes.

Contact

Robyn Zerebecki
None
robyn.zerebecki@louisiana.edu
Project Website

Project Partners

None

Affiliated Institutions

None