Intraspecific Variability in Leaf Functional Traits Reveals Divergent Resource-Use Strategies and Geographic Adaptation in Mediterranean Olive Cultivars from Worldwide Olive Germplasm Bank of Marrakech.

ABSTRACT: Understanding intraspecific functional trait variability (ITV) is crucial for elucidating plant functional strategies under environmental change. This study investigates the functional responses of 129 Mediterranean olive (Olea europaea L.) cultivars conserved in the Worldwide Olive Germplasm Bank of Marrakech (WOGBM), focusing on three key leaf traits: specific leaf area (SLA), specific leaf water content (SLWC), and leaf area (LA). Substantial ITV was observed, with variability predominantly driven by cultivar differences and geographic origin. LA accounted for the highest within-cultivar variability (43.60%), followed by SLWC (31.67%) and SLA (17.92%). Geographic origin significantly influenced trait expression, with eastern Mediterranean cultivars exhibiting conservative resourc

SUBMITTER: Kassout J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12899711 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature