Functional trait divergence associated with heteromorphic leaves in a climbing fig.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Plants that display heteroblasty possess conspicuous variations in leaf morphology between their juvenile and adult phases, with certain species retaining juvenile-like leaves even in adulthood. Nevertheless, the ecological advantages of maintaining two or more distinct leaf types in heteroblastic plants at the adult stage remain unclear.

Method

The aim of this study is to examine the adaptive significance of heteroblastic leaves sampled from branches with divergent functions (sterile and fertile branches) of mature Ficus pumila individuals by comparing their morphological, anatomical, and physiological characteristics.

Result

Leaves on sterile branches (LSs) exhibited a significantly larger specific leaf area, thinner palisade and spongy tissues,

SUBMITTER: Deng JY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10546399 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature