An analysis of the population dynamics of draba incana, polygala amarelle and gentiana verna in upper Teesdale

Abstract

The thesis outlines the ecological and conservational importance of the three species. Nine years' demography data collected on Draba incana, Polygala amarella and Gentians verna are then analysed to provide a picture of flowering performance; vegetative reproduction; establishment and recruitment; mortality patterns; age-structure and dispersal, as these processes occurred in the study populations. The results are discussed in the light of current theories about adaptive strategies exhibited by plants.