Different Leaf Strategies Between Lithophytic and Terrestrial Orchids in a Subtropical Karst Forest.

ABSTRACT: The leaf economic spectrum framework explains how plants optimize leaf traits for productivity, distribution, and stress tolerance. Orchids in Southwestern China's karst forests, especially lithophytic species, are challenged by prolonged drought and limited light availability. This study investigated different leaf strategies between lithophytic and terrestrial orchids under the harsh karst environment. We measured key leaf traits, including photosynthesis, structure, biomechanics, nitrogen allocation, and water relations, in twenty-two lithophytic and six terrestrial orchids in a subtropical karst forest. After accounting for phylogenetic influences, we found that lithophytic orchids had a higher leaf mass per area, cuticle thickness, and biomechanical resistance (F_p) b

SUBMITTER: Yang M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12030510 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature