Evolutionary Changes in Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) and Related Traits During the Diversification of <i>Aichryson</i> (Crassulaceae) on the Macaronesian Islands.

ABSTRACT: Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) is a highly plastic photosynthetic pathway with ecological and evolutionary significance, ranging from weak inducible to strong obligate forms. While most Crassulaceae taxa may be capable of performing CAM, the Macaronesian genus Aichryson has not traditionally been associated with CAM. We integrate phylogenetic, physiological, isotopic, anatomical and bioclimatic data to investigate the distribution, plasticity and evolutionary history of CAM and related traits in Aichryson. Our study includes all 15 accepted species, combining over 1100 occurrence records, carbon isotope (δ¹³C) data, nocturnal acid titration and a CAM performance experiment under temperature and drought gradients. Multivariate analyses of bioclimatic variables s

SUBMITTER: Berasategui JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12758979 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature