vegetation. Its habitat is described as "wet meadows, shores, 

 springs, seepage area and low prairie" (Larson 1993) , 

 indicating that it could be found in productive grasslands, in 

 full or partial sun. 



2. Topography: The setting of the historical collection was 

 described as "brooks", suggesting a small, spring-fed, 

 freshwater stream setting. Spring- ^ed streams in both the 

 North and South Cave Hills were extensively surveyed, most of 

 these associated with hardwood draws. The Gentianella 

 amarella was locally abundant in moist headwater areas at the 

 north end of North Cave Hills, but there were no other species 

 found in the Gentian Family. 



3. Soil relationships: Soils are most likely loamy and 

 remain moist for most or all of the growing season. 



E. Population biology and biological interactions: 



1. Population size and condition: Gentiana af finis was noted 

 as abundant in 1910. It is likely to have undergone decline 

 if not extirpation since then, since no plants could be found. 



2. Reproduction: Outcrossing 



3. Competition: Unknown 



4. Herb ivory: This species occupies primary range in 

 settings which are favored for livestock grazing, watering, 

 and shelter. 



F. Assessment and management recommendations: The apparent 

 decline of this species, and the concentrated use of its Cave Hills 

 habitat by livestock form the basis for recommending that it be 

 considered as sensitive. It was not found in the Montana units of 

 the District. 



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