The ecological origin of plant nitrogen uptake preference and how it is modified in a changing environment have been a mystery in ecological studies. This research used a unique experimental design incorporating nitrogen that was differentially labeled with stable isotopes at both African savanna field site and a greenhouse location. Nitrogen preferences were found to be constrained by climatic conditions of the native habitat of the plants, which influence the relative availability of ammonium/nitrate in the habitats.  An interesting phenomenon was seen to exist in that progeny of plants retain such preferences even when the environment changed. This observation has implications for seed banks and replanting of forests with trees grown under different environmental conditions.

Wang, L. and S. Macko. Preference and adaptation maintenance in plant nitrogen uptake. Plant Cell Environment. In press.

The Maury Prize is the most prestigious student award in the Department of Environmental Sciences. It is awarded to the most outstanding graduate or undergraduate student in the Department in any year. Note that it is not awarded if a suitable nominee is not available.  Details……