Status of endangered and threatened plant species on Tonopah Test Range: a survey
From intensive field investigation in 1978, six species under consideration by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) for endangered or threatened status were found on or near the Tonopah Test Range (TTR) in southern central Nevada. Based on recognized threats to these species, their overall distribution, rarity, and other factors, status recommendations were prepared for Sandia Corporation. The single species originally listed for endangered status by FWS, Asclepias eastwoodiana, is herein recommended for threatened status. Of the five other species suggested for threatened status, we propose three as meriting this status: Astragalus pseudoiodanthus, Coryphantha vivipara var. rosea, and Sclerocactus polyancistrus. Gilia nyensis should have further monitoring but appears to require no formal protection at this time. The fifth, Phacelia mustelina, does not require any monitoring or protective actions. Astragalus pseudoiodanthus has yet to be found on TTR, although it is to be expected in the northwest region of the Range and was included in the report for that reason. In addition, ten species that occur in the vicinity of TTR, and which may yet be found on TTR, are discussed in brief. Each species is discussed in relation to distribution, rarity, taxonomy, habitat requirements, endangerment, assessment of status, and proposed protection and monitoring needs. Habitats suggested for protection are recommended for the species warranting threatened status, and are delineated on a composite USGS topographic map. Construction activities and off-road vehicle travel are the most prominent man-caused threats to species on TTR; habitat destruction by trampling and overgrazing by feral horses and non-permit cattle significantly modifies habitats of certain species. 41 refs., 23 figs.
- Research Organization:
- EG and G, Inc., Goleta, CA (USA). Energy Measurements Group
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC08-76NV01183
- OSTI ID:
- 5337356
- Report Number(s):
- EGG-1183-2387; ON: DE85011765
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Status of endangered and threatened plant species on Nevada Test Site: a survey. Part 2. Threatened species
Status of endangered and threatened plant species on Nevada Test Site: a survey. Part 1. Endangered species