MH_Survey_2021_Root
Root samples were collected from six grasslands across northern California. Plots were dominated by either invasive Medusahead or one of two common local grasses, Avena barbata or Bromus tectorum. Each root sample is comprised of roots for 5 individuals, as roots are so small that one individual would not suffice. For plots in Medusahead monoculture tranections or local grass only transect, the root sample is either Medusahead (MH) or the dominant local grass, either Avena barbata or Bromus tectorum, depending on the site. For "mixed" transects, where plots were a roughtly 50:50 mix of Medusahead and local grasses, two root samples were collect, one of Medusahead and one of the dominant local grass. Samples were frozen in liquid nitrogen in situ until arrive in the lab where they were stored at -80. Roots were surface sterilized before DNA was extracted with QIagen DNA PowerPlant kit following standard protocols. DNA extractions were standardied and amplified with dual-step PCR before purification with AMPure. Samples were pooled and sequenced on Illumina miseq 300bp PE.