Simulation of salmonberry and thimbleberry population establishment and growth
A salmonberry (Rubusspectabilis Pursh) and thimbleberry (Rubusparviflorus Nutt.) population simulation model was developed and compared with field observations for verification and validation. The species-specific influence of different phenological stages (early spring bud break, early summer fruit set, and fall senescence), different environments (at different sites), and intraspecific density on demographic processes was incorporated into the model. The model predicts the number of individuals in different life-history stages at three phenological stages during a growing season. Simulations were most accurate when compared with low genet density planted populations. Salmonberry populations on a moist site were most accurately simulated. Thimbleberry simulation accuracy was reduced by poor prediction of sprout densities. Salmonberry and thimbleberry population response to an application of glyphosate was simulated and compared with observed canopy cover for 3 years following application. The simulated response was accurate for the 1st year following application, but did not account for continued canopy cover in the observed populations. Salmonberry canopy cover and mean ramet height in response to manual cutting at three phenological stages was also simulated. The model simulations indicated that the most prolonged reduction in salmonberry cover followed cutting at the reproductive stage of growth.