Taxonomic Determination, Distribution, and Ecological Indicator Values of Sagebrush within the Pinyon-Juniper Woodlands of the Great Basin

Abstract

Various sagebrush taxa are major understory components of most Great Basin pinyon-juniper woodlands. Improved understanding of their identification, distribution, and ecological indicator significance is necessary to interpret site differences for these ranges. Morphology within sagebrush taxa is so variable that chromatographic determination is more easily and objectively relied upon for identification. Big sagebrush is so widespread and likely genetically diverse that sub-specific designations are more helpful in reading site conditions. The various sagebrush taxa are found in particular situations in Great Basin woodlands. Climatic differences explain the basin-wide distributions much more than geologic, landform, or soil conditions. Soils and exposure become more important on the local scale. Presence of a particular sagebrush taxon within pinyon-juniper woodlands can be used for comparisons of site favorableness provided one understands the general distribution of the other sagebrush taxa.