Variation in the reproductive strategy of a lichenized fungus along a climatic gradient.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Onset of reproduction and reproductive allocation patterns are key components of plant reproductive strategies. Life history theory predicts that plants in adverse environments for juvenile performance start reproduction at smaller sizes and exhibit higher reproductive allocation compared to their counterparts in favourable environments. Life history theory will gain in generality if its predictions are shown to apply to a broad range of organisms and modes of reproduction. This study tested whether the asexual reproductive strategy of a lichenized fungus changed along a climatic gradient.

Methods

The variation in threshold size for asexual reproduction and asexual reproductive allocation of the lichen Lobarina scrobiculata was assessed in 18 populations

SUBMITTER: Merinero S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5737354 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature