Kurt M. Hartman

416A Porter Hall

Dept. Env. & Plant Biology

Ohio University

Athens, Ohio 45701-2979

USA

Tel: 740-593-1126

Fax: 740-593-1130

Email: kh349592@ohiou.edu

Personal webpage: 

Degree Program: Ph.D. 

Research Description

I am interested in the invasive species biology and restoration ecology of Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii).  Since this shrub’s introduction into Ohio in the 1960’s, it has caused a wholesale reduction in native biodiversity.  I am currently working on a number of projects to understand the traits that make this invasive species successful, its threats to biodiversity, and how it can be controlled.  The first project involves the evaluation of several eradication methods of Amur honeysuckle and how best to establish native tree seedlings after eradication.  A second project will assess the effects of honeysuckle establishment on forest stands using dendrochronological methods.  Another project will investigate the effects of artificial and natural bird perches on exotic species invasion and succession.  Also, I am looking at a chronosequence of Amur honeysuckle invasion and its impacts on forest succession and patterns of diversity.  Finally, I am investigating the life history tradeoffs and invasive potential of Amur honeysuckle in the context of various abiotic conditions.

Peer-reviewed Publications

Suding, K.N., D.E. Goldberg, and K.M. Hartman.  2003.  Relationships among species traits: separating levels of response and identifying linkages to abundance.  Ecology 84:1-16.

Hartman, K.M. and B.C. McCarthy. 2004. Restoration of a forest understory after the removal of an invasive shrub, Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). Restoration Ecology 12:154-165.

Caption

Amur honeysuckle in fruit.  Traits which facilitate its success include habitat generalist, high fecundity, effective avian disperal, low levels of herbivory, and extended period of leafout

Curriculum Vitae of Kurt M. Hartman