Chaparral Observations

1. Genus Raphanus- I had no idea that this was a wild radish when I took the picture. It was quite pretty. The radish is in the Brassicaceae family and is considered a weed in most places. It's ability to change life cycle is extremely advantageous for an environment with varied rainfall. They also easily adapt to many environments.
2. ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus)- "Great Brome" is apparently not native to California and is invasive. It has spikes that help the seeds stick firmly in the ground which would be beneficial in the chaparral in the event of a fire. It prefers disturbed sites and can grow across multiple moisture levels.
3. Muhlenbergia rigens or Nassella- I definitely think this is a bunch grass. Bunch grasses would do well in this environment because they are perennial. They adapt well in almost any environment.
4. California Poppy- Poppies are adapted to many environments and they have some specific adaptations to fire and they like the chaparrals propensity for it. Its ability to self-seed and tolerance to drought would also be useful.
5. Genista monspessulana- "French Broom" is considered an invasive species in California. It produces a large amount of seeds per season and can live for many years. It is drought tolerant and can sprout after a fire, cutting, and even freezing temperatures.

~It seems that many of the organisms in a chaparral ecosystem are highly adaptable to varied environments. They have an ability to resist drought and survive. They also like disturbed areas with makes them easily suited to California's landscape.

Posted on February 21, 2013 04:57 AM by tabithahewitt9