Vol. 14 (1990)
Glacier Np

Genetic Diversity of Plant Species in Glacier National Park: Implications for Management

Thomas Mitchell-Olds
University of Montana

Published 1990-01-01

Abstract

Glacier National Park (GNP) is responsible for the management and preservation of biological diversity in the natural populations of plants and animals occurring within its boundaries. Information on existing levels of genetic variation within and among populations is a prerequisite for developing management strategies to maintain genetic diversity and to perform revegetation activities. We are using two methods to assess levels of genetic diversity and differentiation among populations: quantitative genetic analysis and isozyme (electrophoresis) analysis. To examine whether patterns of genetic variation and adaptation to local environments require that sites be revegetated with plants collected from nearby natural populations, or alternatively, whether transplants could be obtained from other sources; we are focussing on three experimental areas: 1. quantitative genetics; 2. electrophoresis, and 3. natural selection.