Leaf functional traits and resource use strategies facilitate the spread of invasive plant Parthenium hysterophorus across an elevational gradient in western Himalayas.

ABSTRACT: Parthenium hysterophorus L. (Asteraceae) is a highly prevalent invasive species in subtropical regions across the world. It has recently been seen to shift from low (subtropical) to high (sub-temperate) elevations. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of research investigating the adaptive responses and the significance of leaf functional traits in promoting the expansion to high elevations. The current study investigated the variations and trade-offs among 14 leaf traits (structural, photosynthetic, and nutrient content) of P. hysterophorus across different elevations in the western Himalayas, India. Plots measuring 20 × 40 m were established at different elevations (700 m, 1100 m, 1400 m, and 1800 m) to collect leaf trait data for P. hysterophorus. Along the elevational gradient, significant

SUBMITTER: Sharma P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10985864 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature