Contributions of precipitation and temperature to the large scale geographic distribution of fleshy-fruited plant species: Growth form matters.

ABSTRACT: Fruit type, an important reproductive trait, is closely related to reproduction strategy, community dynamics and biotic interactions. However, limited research has explored the geographic distribution of fruit type and the underlying abiotic factors influencing this on a large scale. Here we aim to study large-scale distribution patterns of fleshy-fruited plant species and the most important environmental drivers for different growth forms in utilizing the fruit type and distribution data for over 27000 plant species in China. Results indicated that the proportion of fleshy-fruited species was higher in southeast China, and this pattern was consistent between different growth forms. Overall, the proportion of fleshy-fruited species was higher in wet, warm, and stable environments. Notably,

SUBMITTER: Zhao Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6243012 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature