Response of leaf functional traits to soil nutrients in the wet and dry seasons in a subtropical forest on an island.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Island ecosystems often have a disproportionate number of endemic species and unique and fragile functional characteristics. However, few examples of this type of ecosystem have been reported.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive field study on Neilingding Island, southern China. The leaf samples of 79 subtropical forest tree species were obtained and their functional traits were studied in the dry and wet seasons to explain the relationships between plant functional traits and soil nutrients.

Results

We found a greater availability of soil moisture content (SMC) and nutrients in the wet season than in the dry season. The values of wet season soil available phosphorus (5.97 mg·kg^-1), SMC (17.67%), and soil available potassium (SAK, 266.96 mg·kg

SUBMITTER: Zhang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10748499 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature