Date Thesis Awarded
5-2024
Access Type
Honors Thesis -- Access Restricted On-Campus Only
Degree Name
Bachelors of Science (BS)
Department
Biology
Advisor
Douglas DeBerry
Committee Members
Randolph Chambers
James Kaste
Abstract
This project examined the habitat preferences of the threatened species Aeschynomene virginica (sensitive joint-vetch) and investigated whether sediment eroded out of a nearby stream channel receiving runoff from an upslope storm drain can create suitable habitat for this species. Data were collected on a population of Ae. virginica near Jamestown Settlement. Salinity, tidal patterns, soil composition, canopy cover, surrounding vegetation, herbivory, and elevation were examined, and the results were compared to existing literature and community data from a nearby reference marsh. Ae. virginica was found in soil with less organic matter and a greater proportion of sand compared to the surrounding marsh. It was also found in a slightly elevated portion of marsh, and vegetation data showed evidence of disturbance. Canopy and vegetation data were in agreement with existing research in demonstrating that Ae. virginica thrives in open areas with low competition. These results indicate that stormwater runoff can create habitat for this plant via sediment deposition and disturbance. This understanding may be useful when identifying suitable habitat for the plant in surveys and GIS mapping.
Recommended Citation
DeCesare, Abigail, "Novel Concepts for Habitat Suitability of the Federally Threatened Plant Aeschynomene virginica" (2024). Undergraduate Honors Theses. William & Mary. Paper 2153.
https://scholarworks.wm.edu/honorstheses/2153
