Trellis-forming stems of a tropical liana Condylocarpon guianense (Apocynaceae): A plant-made safety net constructed by simple "start-stop" development.

ABSTRACT: Tropical vines and lianas have evolved mechanisms to avoid mechanical damage during their climbing life histories. We explore the mechanical properties and stem development of a tropical climber that develops trellises in tropical rain forest canopies. We measured the young stems of Condylocarpon guianensis (Apocynaceae) that construct complex trellises via self-supporting shoots, attached stems, and unattached pendulous stems. The results suggest that, in this species, there is a size (stem diameter) and developmental threshold at which plant shoots will make the developmental transition from stiff young shoots to later flexible stem properties. Shoots that do not find a support remain stiff, becoming pendulous and retaining numerous leaves. The formation of a second TYPE II

SUBMITTER: Soffiatti P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9807222 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature