Plant intraspecific functional trait variation is related to within-habitat heterogeneity and genetic diversity in Trifolium montanum L.

ABSTRACT: Intraspecific trait variation (ITV), based on available genetic diversity, is one of the major means plant populations can respond to environmental variability. The study of functional trait variation and diversity has become popular in ecological research, for example, as a proxy for plant performance influencing fitness. Up to now, it is unclear which aspects of intraspecific functional trait variation (iFD_CV) can be attributed to the environment or genetics under natural conditions. Here, we examined 260 individuals from 13 locations of the rare (semi-)dry calcareous grassland species Trifolium montanum L. in terms of iFD_CV, within-habitat heterogeneity, and genetic diversity. The iFD_CV was assessed by measuring functional traits (releasing height

SUBMITTER: Karbstein K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7297743 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature