High levels of seed inviability among seven populations of the endangered Short’s goldenrod (Solidago shortii – Asteraceae)

Abstract

The physical conditions of mature seeds were examined from representatives of six Kentucky populations and one Indiana population of the endangered species Short\u27s goldenrod (Solidago shortii, Asteraceae.) A random sample of seeds from the Kentucky populations revealed the majority (71%-99%) were incapable of successful seedling development, being damaged due to either an insect predator or to unsuccessful fertilization or embryo abortion. Successful seedling development from phenotypically normal seeds ranged from 71% to 96% in the sampled Kentucky populations. The majority of the damaged seeds were necrotic, ranging from 62%-90%. The Indiana population exhibited the lowest level of herbivory (2%) observed for the species. Two congener goldenrod species (S. canadensis var.altissima and S.nemoralis) found growing either within or adjacent to three populations of Short\u27s goldenrod exhibited lower levels of necrosis and higher levels of herbivory. A third congener species (S.gigantea) exhibited equal levels of the two seed conditions (herbivory and necrosis). The influence of seed inviability upon the persistence of natural populations of Short\u27s goldenrod is at present unknown