Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
11-2025
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Biology, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Darlene Panvini
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
Butternut trees, (white walnut, Juglans cinerea), are infected by a fatal canker, Ophiognomonia clavigignenti-juglandacearum (O-cj), which impacts the survival and population density of the species. Once found throughout the eastern United States, the species has decreased considerably. Due to its uncommon occurrence in Middle Tennessee, the conditions of J. cinerea were investigated at Beaman Park in Nashville, TN. All butternut trees were hypothesized to be infected by O-cj. Each known tree in the park was examined to assess its bark health and determine the presence of the canker. Ecosystem analyses around each tree included surveys of soil characteristics, canopy density, and presence of companion species within a 5 meter radius. The study of butternut trees is important due to the high mortality rate caused by the canker. Research regarding butternut trees and their environment can aid in protecting the species from a canker-induced extinction.
Recommended Citation
Parker, Corinne; Aklile, Kidist; and Panvini, Darlene, "Presence of Ophiognomonia clavivignenti-juglandacearum on Juglans cinerea at Beaman Park in Nashville, Tennessee" (2025). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 298.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/298
