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(including bibliographic citations)
Mini-abstract: This group at Texas A&M developed a suite of six microsatellite genetic markers for star cactus (Astrophytum asterias). Using these markers, the same group of scientists is now doing a genetic study of wild populations of star cactus in Starr County, Texas, to answer questions about the genetic diversity of the remaining populations in South Texas, and the prospects for using seed from the various populations for restoration/augmentation efforts to conserve this endangered species. The study is expected to be completed and published in 2010. Martin Terry and James D. Mauseth. 2006. Root-shoot anatomy and post-harvest vegetative clonal development in Lophophora williamsii (Cactaceae: Cactaeae): implications for conservation. Sida 22: 565-592. [PDF] Mini-abstract: The observed attrition of populations of peyote in South Texas in recent decades may be attributed to harvesting techniques that involve cutting the plants two deeply below ground level, which prevents the sprouting of new crowns. Terry and Mauseth demonstrate in this study that root tissue can be clearly distinguished from subterranean stem tissue at the microscopic level. This study also shows how the peyote plants, having been decapitated in the harvesting process, regenerate new stems by lateral budding from subterranean stem that remains in the ground after harvest. A followup study is planned to test the hypothesis that cutting the plants close to the ground level (and specifically leaving adequate subterranean stem tissue intact) will result in a significantly higher rate of regrowth than cutting the plants deeply below ground level (and specifically removing most or all of the subterranean stem tissue with the harvested button). Martin Terry, Karen L. Steelman, Tom Guilderson, Phil Dering, Marvin W. Rowe. 2006. Lower Pecos and Coahuila peyote: new radiocarbon dates. Journal of Archaeological Science, 33: 1017-1021. [PDF] Mini-abstract: This group showed, through state-of-the-art radiocarbon dating of archaeological specimens recovered from the Shumla Caves of Texas, that peyote has been present in human habitations for at least 6,000 years. Check-out our new and growing online library. |
by Dana M. Price & Martin Terry
by Martin Terry
by Martin Terry
by Joselyn Fenstermachter