Divergent functional traits and gene expression profiles in native and encroaching plant species across an alpine elevational gradient.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The examination of plant adaptive responses to their native habitats amid global climate change is a critical research focus. Alpine tundra ecosystems, with extreme conditions (e.g., low temperatures and nutrient scarcity), present unique challenges to plant survival. This study aimed to explore how plants adapt to the alpine tundra environment, comparing native species and an encroaching species.

Methods

We analyzed 10 native alpine tundra plant species and one encroaching species (Deyeuxia angustifolia) in the Changbai Mountain region. Our approach combined three methods: Morphological characteristic analysis to assess structural adaptations; CSR strategy evaluation (competitive, stress-tolerator, ruderal strategies) to characterize ecological strategie

SUBMITTER: Yang Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12539351 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature