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Mueller KE, Kray JA, Blumenthal DM. Coordination of leaf, root, and seed traits shows the importance of whole plant economics in two semiarid grasslands. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 241:2410-2422. [PMID: 38214451 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Uncertainty persists within trait-based ecology, partly because few studies assess multiple axes of functional variation and their effect on plant performance. For 55 species from two semiarid grasslands, we quantified: (1) covariation between economic traits of leaves and absorptive roots, (2) covariation among economic traits, plant height, leaf size, and seed mass, and (3) relationships between these traits and species' abundance. Pairs of analogous leaf and root traits were at least weakly positively correlated (e.g. specific leaf area (SLA) and specific root length (SRL)). Two pairs of such traits, N content and DMC of leaves and roots, were at least moderately correlated (r > 0.5) whether species were grouped by site, taxonomic group and growth form, or life history. Root diameter was positively correlated with seed mass for all groups of species except annuals and monocots. Species with higher leaf dry matter content (LDMC) tended to be more abundant (r = 0.63). Annuals with larger seeds were more abundant (r = 0.69). Compared with global-scale syntheses with many observations from mesic ecosystems, we observed stronger correlations between analogous leaf and root traits, weaker correlations between SLA and leaf N, and stronger correlations between SRL and root N. In dry grasslands, plant persistence may require coordination of above- and belowground traits, and dense tissues may facilitate dominance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin E Mueller
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, 44115, USA
| | - Julie A Kray
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Rangeland Resources & Systems Research, Fort Collins, CO, 80526, USA
| | - Dana M Blumenthal
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Rangeland Resources & Systems Research, Fort Collins, CO, 80526, USA
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Fedeli R, Fiaschi T, Angiolini C, Maccherini S, Loppi S, Fanfarillo E. Dose-Dependent and Species-Specific Effects of Wood Distillate Addition on the Germination Performance of Threatened Arable Plants. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3028. [PMID: 37687274 PMCID: PMC10489648 DOI: 10.3390/plants12173028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Wood distillate (WD) is a bio-based product applied to crop plants for its known action in terms of growth promotion and yield enhancement, but studies are lacking on its effects on the germination of arable plants. To test such effects, we applied WD at six different concentrations on the diaspores of three threatened arable plants: Bromus secalinus, Centaurea cyanus, and Legousia speculum-veneris. For all the studied species, the effect of WD was dose-dependent and species-specific. In B. secalinus, the germination percentage (GP) decreased at 0.125% WD but then remained stable at higher concentrations up to 1%. At 2% WD, almost no germination was observed. Mean germination time (MGT) was not influenced up to 1% WD but significantly increased at 2% WD. The germination rate index (GRI) and germination energy (GE) remained unaffected up to 1% WD but decreased at 2% WD. In C. cyanus, WD had no effects on GP and GE at any concentration. MGT showed no difference with the control up to 1% WD, but significantly increased at 2% WD. GRI increased only at low concentrations (0.125% and 0.25%). The germination performance of L. speculum-veneris was unaffected up to 0.25% WD for all the tested parameters. From 0.5% WD, a reduction in GP, GRI, and GE and an increase in MGT were observed. At 2% WD, germination was totally blocked. Our results suggest that using WD at low concentrations (<0.5%), those commonly used in arable crops, does not affect the germination of the three investigated plant species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Fedeli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (R.F.); (C.A.); (S.M.); (E.F.)
| | - Tiberio Fiaschi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (R.F.); (C.A.); (S.M.); (E.F.)
| | - Claudia Angiolini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (R.F.); (C.A.); (S.M.); (E.F.)
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, 90100 Palermo, Italy
- BAT Center—Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Simona Maccherini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (R.F.); (C.A.); (S.M.); (E.F.)
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, 90100 Palermo, Italy
- BAT Center—Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Stefano Loppi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (R.F.); (C.A.); (S.M.); (E.F.)
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, 90100 Palermo, Italy
- BAT Center—Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Emanuele Fanfarillo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (R.F.); (C.A.); (S.M.); (E.F.)
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, 90100 Palermo, Italy
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Lamont BB, Williams MR, He T. Relative growth rate (RGR) and other confounded variables: mathematical problems and biological solutions. ANNALS OF BOTANY 2023; 131:555-568. [PMID: 36794962 PMCID: PMC10147329 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcad031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Relative growth rate (RGR) has a long history of use in biology. In its logged form, RGR = ln[(M + ΔM)/M], where M is size of the organism at the commencement of the study, and ΔM is new growth over time interval Δt. It illustrates the general problem of comparing non-independent (confounded) variables, e.g. (X + Y) vs. X. Thus, RGR depends on what starting M(X) is used even within the same growth phase. Equally, RGR lacks independence from its derived components, net assimilation rate (NAR) and leaf mass ratio (LMR), as RGR = NAR × LMR, so that they cannot legitimately be compared by standard regression or correlation analysis. FINDINGS The mathematical properties of RGR exemplify the general problem of 'spurious' correlations that compare expressions derived from various combinations of the same component terms X and Y. This is particularly acute when X >> Y, the variance of X or Y is large, or there is little range overlap of X and Y values among datasets being compared. Relationships (direction, curvilinearity) between such confounded variables are essentially predetermined and so should not be reported as if they are a finding of the study. Standardizing by M rather than time does not solve the problem. We propose the inherent growth rate (IGR), lnΔM/lnM, as a simple, robust alternative to RGR that is independent of M within the same growth phase. CONCLUSIONS Although the preferred alternative is to avoid the practice altogether, we discuss cases where comparing expressions with components in common may still have utility. These may provide insights if (1) the regression slope between pairs yields a new variable of biological interest, (2) the statistical significance of the relationship remains supported using suitable methods, such as our specially devised randomization test, or (3) multiple datasets are compared and found to be statistically different. Distinguishing true biological relationships from spurious ones, which arise from comparing non-independent expressions, is essential when dealing with derived variables associated with plant growth analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron B Lamont
- Ecology Section, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, PO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
| | - Matthew R Williams
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions, Kensington, WA 6151, Australia
| | - Tianhua He
- Ecology Section, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, PO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
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Banin LF, Raine EH, Rowland LM, Chazdon RL, Smith SW, Rahman NEB, Butler A, Philipson C, Applegate GG, Axelsson EP, Budiharta S, Chua SC, Cutler MEJ, Elliott S, Gemita E, Godoong E, Graham LLB, Hayward RM, Hector A, Ilstedt U, Jensen J, Kasinathan S, Kettle CJ, Lussetti D, Manohan B, Maycock C, Ngo KM, O'Brien MJ, Osuri AM, Reynolds G, Sauwai Y, Scheu S, Silalahi M, Slade EM, Swinfield T, Wardle DA, Wheeler C, Yeong KL, Burslem DFRP. The road to recovery: a synthesis of outcomes from ecosystem restoration in tropical and sub-tropical Asian forests. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20210090. [PMID: 36373930 PMCID: PMC9661948 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Current policy is driving renewed impetus to restore forests to return ecological function, protect species, sequester carbon and secure livelihoods. Here we assess the contribution of tree planting to ecosystem restoration in tropical and sub-tropical Asia; we synthesize evidence on mortality and growth of planted trees at 176 sites and assess structural and biodiversity recovery of co-located actively restored and naturally regenerating forest plots. Mean mortality of planted trees was 18% 1 year after planting, increasing to 44% after 5 years. Mortality varied strongly by site and was typically ca 20% higher in open areas than degraded forest, with height at planting positively affecting survival. Size-standardized growth rates were negatively related to species-level wood density in degraded forest and plantations enrichment settings. Based on community-level data from 11 landscapes, active restoration resulted in faster accumulation of tree basal area and structural properties were closer to old-growth reference sites, relative to natural regeneration, but tree species richness did not differ. High variability in outcomes across sites indicates that planting for restoration is potentially rewarding but risky and context-dependent. Restoration projects must prepare for and manage commonly occurring challenges and align with efforts to protect and reconnect remaining forest areas. The abstract of this article is available in Bahasa Indonesia in the electronic supplementary material. This article is part of the theme issue 'Understanding forest landscape restoration: reinforcing scientific foundations for the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay F. Banin
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Bush Estate, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 0QB, UK
| | - Elizabeth H. Raine
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Bush Estate, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 0QB, UK
| | - Lucy M. Rowland
- Department of Geography, University of Exeter, Laver Building, North Park Road, Exeter EX4 4QE, UK
| | - Robin L. Chazdon
- Tropical Forests and People Research Centre, Forest Research Institute, University of Sunshine Coast, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs, 4556, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stuart W. Smith
- Asian School of Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Ecology, Conservation and Zoonosis Research and Enterprise Group, School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, BN2 4GJ, UK
| | - Nur Estya Binte Rahman
- Asian School of Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Adam Butler
- Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland, JCMB, The King's Buildings, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FD, UK
| | - Christopher Philipson
- Permian Global Research Limited, Savoy Hill House, 7–10 Savoy Hill, London WC2R 0BU, UK
| | - Grahame G. Applegate
- Tropical Forests and People Research Centre, Forest Research Institute, University of Sunshine Coast, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs, 4556, Queensland, Australia
| | - E. Petter Axelsson
- Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skogsmarksgränd, Umeå 907 36, Sweden
| | - Sugeng Budiharta
- Research Centre for Ecology and Ethnobiology, National Agency for Research and Innovation (BRIN), Jl. Raya Jakarta-Bogor KM. 46, Cibinong, Bogor, West Java 16911, Indonesia
| | - Siew Chin Chua
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Block S3 #05-01 16 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117558, Singapore
| | | | - Stephen Elliott
- Environmental Science Research Centre, Science Faculty and Forest Restoration Research Unit, Biology Department, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Elva Gemita
- PT Restorasi Ekosistem Indonesia, Jl. Dadali No. 32, Bogor 16161, Indonesia
| | - Elia Godoong
- Faculty of Tropical Forestry, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 88400, Malaysia
| | - Laura L. B. Graham
- Tropical Forests and People Research Centre, Forest Research Institute, University of Sunshine Coast, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs, 4556, Queensland, Australia
- Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation, BOSF Mawas Program, Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, 73111, Indonesia
| | - Robin M. Hayward
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Andy Hector
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3RB, UK
| | - Ulrik Ilstedt
- Department of Forest Ecology and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skogsmarksgränd, Umeå 907 36, Sweden
| | - Joel Jensen
- Department of Forest Ecology and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skogsmarksgränd, Umeå 907 36, Sweden
| | - Srinivasan Kasinathan
- Nature Conservation Foundation, 1311, ‘Amritha’, 12th Main, Vijayanagar 1st Stage, Mysuru, Karnataka 570 017, India
| | - Christopher J. Kettle
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zürich, Universitätstrasse 16, Zürich 8092, Switzerland
- Bioversity International, Via di San Domenico, 00153 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniel Lussetti
- Department of Forest Ecology and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skogsmarksgränd, Umeå 907 36, Sweden
| | - Benjapan Manohan
- Environmental Science Research Centre, Science Faculty and Forest Restoration Research Unit, Biology Department, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Colin Maycock
- Forever Sabah, Jalan Penampang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 88300, Malaysia
| | - Kang Min Ngo
- Asian School of Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Michael J. O'Brien
- Área de Biodiversidad y Conservación, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, c/Tulipán s/n., E-28933 Móstoles, Madrid, 28933, Spain
| | - Anand M. Osuri
- Nature Conservation Foundation, 1311, ‘Amritha’, 12th Main, Vijayanagar 1st Stage, Mysuru, Karnataka 570 017, India
| | - Glen Reynolds
- South East Asia Rainforest Research Partnership, Danum Valley Field Centre, PO Box 60282, Lahad Datu, Sabah 91112, Malaysia
| | - Yap Sauwai
- Conservation & Environmental Management Division, Yayasan Sabah Group, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 88817, Malaysia
| | - Stefan Scheu
- J.F. Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, Göttingen 37073, Germany
- Centre of Biodiversity and Sustainable Land Use, University of Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Mangarah Silalahi
- PT Restorasi Ekosistem Indonesia, Jl. Dadali No. 32, Bogor 16161, Indonesia
| | - Eleanor M. Slade
- Asian School of Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Tom Swinfield
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, UK
| | - David A. Wardle
- Asian School of Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Charlotte Wheeler
- Centre for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), Jalan CIFOR, Bogor 16115, Indonesia
| | - Kok Loong Yeong
- South East Asia Rainforest Research Partnership, Danum Valley Field Centre, PO Box 60282, Lahad Datu, Sabah 91112, Malaysia
- Leverhulme Centre for Climate Change Mitigation, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Alfred Denny Building, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - David F. R. P. Burslem
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, St Machar Drive, Aberdeen, Scotland AB24 3UU, UK
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Fletcher LR, Scoffoni C, Farrell C, Buckley TN, Pellegrini M, Sack L. Testing the association of relative growth rate and adaptation to climate across natural ecotypes of Arabidopsis. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2022; 236:413-432. [PMID: 35811421 DOI: 10.1111/nph.18369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Ecophysiologists have reported a range of relationships, including intrinsic trade-offs across and within species between plant relative growth rate in high resource conditions (RGR) vs adaptation to tolerate cold or arid climates, arising from trait-based mechanisms. Few studies have considered ecotypes within a species, in which the lack of a trade-off would contribute to a wide species range and resilience to climate change. For 15 ecotypes of Arabidopsis thaliana in a common garden we tested for associations between RGR vs adaptation to cold or dry native climates and assessed hypotheses for its mediation by 15 functional traits. Ecotypes native to warmer, drier climates had higher leaf density, leaf mass per area, root mass fraction, nitrogen per leaf area and carbon isotope ratio, and lower osmotic potential at full turgor. Relative growth rate was statistically independent of the climate of the ecotype native range and of individual functional traits. The decoupling of RGR and cold or drought adaptation in Arabidopsis is consistent with multiple stress resistance and avoidance mechanisms for ecotypic climate adaptation and would contribute to the species' wide geographic range and resilience as the climate changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila R Fletcher
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Christine Scoffoni
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA
| | - Colin Farrell
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Thomas N Buckley
- Department of Plant Sciences, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Lawren Sack
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
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Fayaz S, Mahajan R, Hami A, Husaini AM, Bhat SA, Murtaza I, Dhekale B, Bhat BA, Zargar SM. Polyphenolics, antioxidant characterization and DNA barcoding of Kala zeera [Bunium persicum (Boiss.) Fedtsch] through multiple barcode analysis to unravel best barcode combination. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:7205-7217. [PMID: 35729477 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07682-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kala zeera [Bunium persicum (Boiss.) Fedtsch] is one of the important spice crops of North Western Himalayas with lot of medicinal and culinary values. In spite of having great importance, this crop is under the threat of extinction due to loss of habitat and lack of awareness. The limited availability of the seeds has ultimately increased the economic value of this spice. The upmarket of Kala zeera leads to its adulteration with other black seeds and cumin seeds. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate polyphenolics and antioxidant properties of Kala zeera genotypes collected from North Western Himalayas and to develop DNA barcodes that can ensure their purity and can also guide in conservation of selected Kala zeera germplasm lines. METHODS AND RESULTS Various locations of North Western Himalayas were explored for collecting 31 diverse germplasm lines of Kala zeera. The collected germplasm was maintained at our experimental stations during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021. These genotypes were evaluated for different seed traits and the methanolic extract from Kala zeera seeds was examined for total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, antioxidant activities by DPPH and FRAP. The results revealed significant variation in seed traits, polyphenolic content and antioxidant properties. 100 seed weight ranged from 0.05 to 0.35 g, TPC ranged from 7.5 to 22.56 mg/g, TFC ranged from 0.58 to 4.15 mg/g, antioxidant properties DPPH ranged from 168 to 624.4 μg/ml and FRAP ranged from 0.72 to 6.91 mg/g. Further, three different barcodes (ITS, rbcL and psbA-trnH) were used to reveal the authenticity of selected Kala zeera. MEGA 5 software was used for clustering and the barcodes did clustering based on geographical distribution of Kala zeera germplasm. CONCLUSION Based on molecular barcoding, best barcode combination was identified that may discriminate the Kala zeera germplasm vis-a-vis can authenticate their purity. Moreover, the identified DNA barcodes will have significant role in studying the evolutionary biology of Bunium species and will be important for designing a strategy to conserve the selected Kala zeera germplasm lines. The identified genotypes with high phenolic content and antioxidant activity can further be utilized in Kala zeera breeding programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salima Fayaz
- Proteomics Laboratory, Division of Plant Biotechnology, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India
| | - Reetika Mahajan
- Proteomics Laboratory, Division of Plant Biotechnology, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India.
| | - Ammarah Hami
- Proteomics Laboratory, Division of Plant Biotechnology, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India
| | - Amjad M Husaini
- Proteomics Laboratory, Division of Plant Biotechnology, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India
| | - Sajad Ahmad Bhat
- Division of Basic Science, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Imtiyaz Murtaza
- Division of Basic Science, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Bhagyashree Dhekale
- Division of Agricultural Statistics, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Bilal A Bhat
- MAR&ES, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Gurez, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Sajad Majeed Zargar
- Proteomics Laboratory, Division of Plant Biotechnology, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India.
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Murawska-Wlodarczyk K, Korzeniak U, Chlebicki A, Mazur E, Dietrich CC, Babst-Kostecka A. Metalliferous habitats and seed microbes affect the seed morphology and reproductive strategy of Arabidopsis halleri. PLANT AND SOIL 2022; 472:175-192. [PMID: 36389645 PMCID: PMC9648182 DOI: 10.1007/s11104-021-05203-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Plant reproduction in metalliferous habitats is challenged by elevated concentrations of metal trace elements in soil. As part of their survival strategy, metal-tolerant plants have adjusted reproductive traits, including seed morphology, dormancy, and germination rate. These traits are particularly relevant, yet poorly understood, in metal hyperaccumulators that are promising candidates for phytoremediation. METHODS We assessed seed shape characteristics, dormancy, and germination rate in the hyperaccumulating model species Arabidopsis halleri. Seed morphological parameters were evaluated using seeds collected from two metalliferous and two non-metalliferous sites (~ 1000 seeds per location). We also addressed the potential influence of seed surface-associated microbes and endophytic fungi on germination success. RESULTS Seeds from non-metallicolous populations were on average 18% bigger than those from metal-contaminated post-mining sites, which contrasts the general expectation about reproductive parts in metallicolous plants. Irrespective of their origin, surface-sterilized seeds had up to ~ 20% higher germination rates and germinated earlier than non-sterilized seeds, hinting at a negative effect of seed-associated microbial communities. Surface sterilization also facilitated the emergence of an endophytic fungus (Aspergillus niger) that is a known seed-borne pathogen. Interestingly, A. niger actually promoted germination in surface-sterilized seeds from some locations. CONCLUSION Despite species-wide metal tolerance in A. halleri, metalliferous conditions seem to differently affect reproductive traits compared to non-metalliferous environments (e.g., smaller seeds). Yet, higher germination rates in these populations hint at the potential of A. halleri to successfully colonize post-mining habitats. This process is modulated by site-specific interactions with seed microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Urszula Korzeniak
- Department of Ecology, W. Szafer Institute of Botany Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrzej Chlebicki
- Department of Ecology, W. Szafer Institute of Botany Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Edyta Mazur
- Department of Ecology, W. Szafer Institute of Botany Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Charlotte C Dietrich
- Department of Ecology, W. Szafer Institute of Botany Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Alicja Babst-Kostecka
- Department of Environmental Science, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Ecology, W. Szafer Institute of Botany Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
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Perkins AC, Lynch JP. Increased seminal root number associated with domestication improves nitrogen and phosphorus acquisition in maize seedlings. ANNALS OF BOTANY 2021; 128:453-468. [PMID: 34120166 PMCID: PMC8414917 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcab074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Domesticated maize (Zea mays ssp. mays) generally forms between two and six seminal roots, while its wild ancestor, Mexican annual teosinte (Zea mays ssp. parviglumis), typically lacks seminal roots. Maize also produces larger seeds than teosinte, and it generally has higher growth rates as a seedling. Maize was originally domesticated in the tropical soils of southern Mexico, but it was later brought to the Mexican highlands before spreading to other parts of the continent, where it experienced different soil resource constraints. The aims of this study were to understand the impacts of increased seminal root number on seedling nitrogen and phosphorus acquisition and to model how differences in maize and teosinte phenotypes might have contributed to increased seminal root number in domesticated maize. METHODS Seedling root system architectural models of a teosinte accession and a maize landrace were constructed by parameterizing the functional-structural plant model OpenSimRoot using plants grown in mesocosms. Seedling growth was simulated in a low-phosphorus environment, multiple low-nitrogen environments, and at variable planting densities. Models were also constructed to combine individual components of the maize and teosinte phenotypes. KEY RESULTS Seminal roots contributed ~35 % of the nitrogen and phosphorus acquired by maize landrace seedlings in the first 25 d after planting. Increased seminal root number improved plant nitrogen acquisition under low-nitrogen environments with varying precipitation patterns, fertilization rates, soil textures and planting densities. Models suggested that the optimal number of seminal roots for nutrient acquisition in teosinte is constrained by its limited seed carbohydrate reserves. CONCLUSIONS Seminal roots can improve the acquisition of both nitrogen and phosphorus in maize seedlings, and the increase in seed size associated with maize domestication may have facilitated increased seminal root number.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alden C Perkins
- Department of Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Jonathan P Lynch
- Department of Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Simpson KJ, Atkinson RRL, Mockford EJ, Bennett C, Osborne CP, Rees M. Large seeds provide an intrinsic growth advantage that depends on leaf traits and root allocation. Funct Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emily J. Mockford
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
| | - Christopher Bennett
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
| | - Colin P. Osborne
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
| | - Mark Rees
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
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10
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Cacho NI, McIntyre PJ, Kliebenstein DJ, Strauss SY. Genome size evolution is associated with climate seasonality and glucosinolates, but not life history, soil nutrients or range size, across a clade of mustards. ANNALS OF BOTANY 2021; 127:887-902. [PMID: 33675229 PMCID: PMC8225284 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcab028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS We investigate patterns of evolution of genome size across a morphologically and ecologically diverse clade of Brassicaceae, in relation to ecological and life history traits. While numerous hypotheses have been put forward regarding autecological and environmental factors that could favour small vs. large genomes, a challenge in understanding genome size evolution in plants is that many hypothesized selective agents are intercorrelated. METHODS We contribute genome size estimates for 47 species of Streptanthus Nutt. and close relatives, and take advantage of many data collections for this group to assemble data on climate, life history, soil affinity and composition, geographic range and plant secondary chemistry to identify simultaneous correlates of variation in genome size in an evolutionary framework. We assess models of evolution across clades and use phylogenetically informed analyses as well as model selection and information criteria approaches to identify variables that can best explain genome size variation in this clade. KEY RESULTS We find differences in genome size and heterogeneity in its rate of evolution across subclades of Streptanthus and close relatives. We show that clade-wide genome size is positively associated with climate seasonality and glucosinolate compounds. Model selection and information criteria approaches identify a best model that includes temperature seasonality and fraction of aliphatic glucosinolates, suggesting a possible role for genome size in climatic adaptation or a role for biotic interactions in shaping the evolution of genome size. We find no evidence supporting hypotheses of life history, range size or soil nutrients as forces shaping genome size in this system. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest climate seasonality and biotic interactions as potential forces shaping the evolution of genome size and highlight the importance of evaluating multiple factors in the context of phylogeny to understand the effect of possible selective agents on genome size.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Ivalú Cacho
- Instituto de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Circuito Exterior, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City, Mexico
- Center for Population Biology, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, USA
- Department of Evolution of Ecology, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Patrick J McIntyre
- Center for Population Biology, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, USA
- NatureServe, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Daniel J Kliebenstein
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, USA
- DynaMo Centre of Excellence, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Sharon Y Strauss
- Center for Population Biology, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, USA
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11
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Preece C, Jones G, Rees M, Osborne CP. Fertile Crescent crop progenitors gained a competitive advantage from large seedlings. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:3300-3312. [PMID: 33841785 PMCID: PMC8019021 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Cereal domestication during the transition to agriculture resulted in widespread food production, but why only certain species were domesticated remains unknown. We tested whether seedlings of crop progenitors share functional traits that could give them a competitive advantage within anthropogenic environments, including higher germination, greater seedling survival, faster growth rates, and greater competitive ability.Fifteen wild grass species from the Fertile Crescent were grown individually under controlled conditions to evaluate differences in growth between cereal crop progenitors and other wild species that were never domesticated. Differences in germination, seedling survival, and competitive ability were measured by growing a subset of these species as monocultures and mixtures.Crop progenitors had greater germination success, germinated more quickly and had greater aboveground biomass when grown in competition with other species. There was no evidence of a difference in seedling survival, but seed size was positively correlated with a number of traits, including net assimilation rates, greater germination success, and faster germination under competition. In mixtures, the positive effect of seed mass on germination success and speed of germination was even more beneficial for crop progenitors than for other wild species, suggesting greater fitness. Thus, selection for larger seeded individuals under competition may have been stronger in the crop progenitors.The strong competitive ability of Fertile Crescent cereal crop progenitors, linked to their larger seedling size, represents an important ecological difference between these species and other wild grasses in the region. It is consistent with the hypothesis that competition within plant communities surrounding human settlements, or under early cultivation, benefited progenitor species, favoring their success as crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Preece
- Department of Animal and Plant SciencesUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
- PLECO (Plants and Ecosystems)Department of BiologyUniversity of AntwerpWilrijkBelgium
| | - Glynis Jones
- Department of ArchaeologyUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| | - Mark Rees
- Department of Animal and Plant SciencesUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| | - Colin P. Osborne
- Department of Animal and Plant SciencesUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
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12
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Wang Z, Bu H, Wang M, Huang H, Niklas KJ. Allocation Strategies for Seed Nitrogen and Phosphorus in an Alpine Meadow Along an Altitudinal Gradient on the Tibetan Plateau. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:614644. [PMID: 33362840 PMCID: PMC7756027 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.614644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) play important roles in many aspects of plant biology. The allocation of N and P in plant vegetative organs (i.e., leaves, stems, and fine roots) is critical to the regulation of plant growth and development. However, how these elements are allocated in seeds is unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the N and P allocation strategies of seeds in an alpine meadow along an altitudinal gradient. We measured the seed N and P contents of 253 herbaceous species in 37 families along an altitudinal gradient (2,000-4,200 m) in the east Tibetan alpine meadow. The geometric means of seed N and P concentrations and N:P ratios were 34.81 mg g-1, 5.06 mg g-1, and 6.88, respectively. Seed N and P concentrations varied across major taxonomic groups and among different altitude zones. N:P ratios showed no significant variations among different taxonomic groups with the exception of N-fixing species. The numerical value of the scaling exponent of seed N vs. P was 0.73, thus approaching 3/4, across the entire data set, but varied significantly across major taxonomic groups. In addition, the numerical value of the scaling exponent of N vs. P declined from 0.88 in the high altitude zone to 0.63 in the low altitude zone. These results indicate that the variations in the numerical value of the scaling exponent governing the seed N vs. P scaling relationship varies as a function of major taxonomic groups and among different altitude zones. We speculate that this variation reflects different adaptive strategies for survival and germination in an alpine meadow. If true, the data presented here advance our understanding of plant seed allocation strategies, and have important implications for modeling early plant growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Wang
- Institute for Advanced Study, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Haiyan Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Mingcheng Wang
- Institute for Advanced Study, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Heng Huang
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Karl J. Niklas
- Plant Biology Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
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13
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Wade RN, Seed P, McLaren E, Wood E, Christin PA, Thompson K, Rees M, Osborne CP. The morphogenesis of fast growth in plants. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2020; 228:1306-1315. [PMID: 32841398 DOI: 10.1111/nph.16892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Growth rate represents a fundamental axis of life history variation. Faster growth associated with C4 photosynthesis and annual life history has evolved multiple times, and the resulting diversity in growth is typically explained via resource acquisition and allocation. However, the underlying changes in morphogenesis remain unknown. We conducted a phylogenetic comparative experiment with 74 grass species, conceptualising morphogenesis as the branching and growth of repeating modules. We aimed to establish whether faster growth in C4 and annual grasses, compared with C3 and perennial grasses, came from the faster growth of individual modules or higher rates of module initiation. Morphogenesis produces fast growth in different ways in grasses using C4 and C3 photosynthesis, and in annual compared with perennial species. C4 grasses grow faster than C3 species through a greater enlargement of shoot modules and quicker secondary branching of roots. However, leaf initiation is slower and there is no change in shoot branching. Conversely, faster growth in annuals than perennials is achieved through greater branching and enlargement of shoots, and possibly faster root branching. The morphogenesis of fast growth depends on ecological context, with C4 grasses tending to promote resource capture under competition, and annuals enhancing branching to increase reproductive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth N Wade
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Patrick Seed
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Eleanor McLaren
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Ellie Wood
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Pascal-Antoine Christin
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Ken Thompson
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Mark Rees
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Colin P Osborne
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
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14
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Lindberg CL, Hanslin HM, Schubert M, Marcussen T, Trevaskis B, Preston JC, Fjellheim S. Increased above-ground resource allocation is a likely precursor for independent evolutionary origins of annuality in the Pooideae grass subfamily. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2020; 228:318-329. [PMID: 32421861 DOI: 10.1111/nph.16666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Semelparous annual plants flower a single time during their 1-yr life cycle, investing much of their energy into rapid reproduction. By contrast, iteroparous perennial plants flower multiple times over several years, and partition their resources between reproduction and persistence. To which extent evolutionary transitions between life-cycle strategies are internally constrained at the developmental, genetic and phylogenetic level is unknown. Here we study the evolution of life-cycle strategies in the grass subfamily Pooideae and test if transitions between them are facilitated by evolutionary precursors. We integrate ecological, life-cycle strategy and growth data in a phylogenetic framework. We investigate if growth traits are candidates for a precursor. Species in certain Pooideae clades are predisposed to evolve annuality from perenniality, potentially due to the shared inheritance of specific evolutionary precursors. Seasonal dry climates, which have been linked to annuality, were only able to select for transitions to annuality when the precursor was present. Allocation of more resources to above-ground rather than below-ground growth is a candidate for the precursor. Our findings support the hypothesis that only certain lineages can respond quickly to changing external conditions by switching their life-cycle strategy, likely due to the presence of evolutionary precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Lorange Lindberg
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, 1432, Norway
| | - Hans Martin Hanslin
- Department of Urban Greening and Vegetation Ecology, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, Ås, 1431, Norway
| | - Marian Schubert
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, 1432, Norway
| | - Thomas Marcussen
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, 1432, Norway
| | - Ben Trevaskis
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | | | - Siri Fjellheim
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, 1432, Norway
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15
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Remeš V, Matysioková B, Vrána J. Adaptation and constraint shape the evolution of growth patterns in passerine birds across the globe. Front Zool 2020; 17:29. [PMID: 33005206 PMCID: PMC7526225 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-020-00377-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Growth trajectories should be adapted to selective factors of each species’ environment. However, major shaping forces of growth and development are unclear, especially when studying several traits at once. Birds provide an ideal opportunity to analyze growth patterns across species due to there being enough available data. We tested the relative importance of nest predation risk, the number of care-givers, nest height, foraging substrate, clutch size, and latitude on growth patterns of passerine birds (Passeriformes) using phylogenetic comparative methods. Specifically, we studied the evolution of fledging time, average and peak growth rates, and relative development at fledging of body mass and tarsus, wing, and tail length. Results Using a comprehensive literature search and data quality control, we obtained data on growth in 231 species based on 295 populations. Species with long development in the nest grew slowly and had well-developed traits at fledging. Species breeding under high nest predation risk, building their nests close to the ground, and those living in northern temperate regions fledged early and grew fast, sometimes fledging with less developed body mass and traits critical for locomotion (tarsus, wing, and tail). On the other hand, the number of caring adults, clutch size, and species’ foraging substrate had very limited predictive value for growth patterns across passerine species. Conclusions Shortening of the nestling period was a primary means of accelerating development (in relation to nest predation, nest height, and latitude), sometimes supplemented by higher peak growth rates of body mass, tarsus, and wing (especially in relation to latitude). Overall growth patterns of passerines were adaptively tuned to nest predation risk and nest height, with northern temperate species having especially short nestling periods and fast growth rates of body mass, tarsus, and wing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimír Remeš
- Department of Zoology and Laboratory of Ornithology, Faculty of Science, Palacky University, 17. listopadu 50, 77146 Olomouc, Czech Republic.,Department of Ecology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12800 Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Beata Matysioková
- Department of Zoology and Laboratory of Ornithology, Faculty of Science, Palacky University, 17. listopadu 50, 77146 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Vrána
- Department of Zoology and Laboratory of Ornithology, Faculty of Science, Palacky University, 17. listopadu 50, 77146 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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16
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Capacity of Two Ornamental Species (Iris sibirica and Zantedeschia aethiopica) to Take up, Translocate, and Accumulate Carbamazepine under Hydroponic Conditions. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12051272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Iris sibirica and Zantedeschia aethiopica are ornamental species that have previously been used in pilot-scale treatment wetlands (TWs) focused on the removal of carbamazepine (CBZ), in which good results were obtained; however, the plant influence was not completely determined. In addition, plant uptake has been reported to play a crucial role in CBZ removal in comparison to other mechanisms. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the capacity of I. sibirica and Z. aethiopica to take up, translocate, and accumulate CBZ in hydroponic conditions using a nutrient solution spiked with the drug. The maximum CBZ tolerance threshold for the two species was found to be 10 mg/L, which was used to carry out the uptake experiments. The results showed a better performance of I. sibirica compared to Z. aethiopica reaching 31.1% and 20.9% of removal efficiency, respectively. The parent compound accumulated mainly on the leaves of both species. Furthermore, a high proportion of the CBZ taken up by the plants (up to 70%) was metabolized by both species. The performance of the two species suggests the importance of plant harvesting in TWs in order to promote CBZ removal and indicates the need for future works.
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17
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Gomola CE, McKay JK, Wallenstein MD, Wagg C, O'Brien MJ. Within-species trade-offs in plant-stimulated soil enzyme activity and growth, flowering, and seed size. Ecol Evol 2018; 8:11717-11724. [PMID: 30598769 PMCID: PMC6303770 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.4623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Soil microbial communities affect species demographic rates of plants. In turn, plants influence the composition and function of the soil microbiome, potentially resulting in beneficial feedbacks that alter their fitness and establishment. For example, differences in the ability to stimulate soil enzyme activity among plant lineages may affect plant growth and reproduction. We used a common garden study to test differences in plant-stimulated soil enzyme activity between lineages of the same species across developmental stages. Lineages employed different strategies whereby growth, days to flowering and seed size traded-off with plant-stimulated soil enzyme activity. Specifically, the smaller seeded lineage stimulated more enzyme activity at the early stage of development and flowered earlier while the larger seeded lineage sustained lower but consistent enzyme activity through development. We suggest that these lineages, which are both successful invaders, employ distinct strategies (a colonizer and a competitor) and differ in their influence on soil microbial activity. Synthesis. The ability to influence the soil microbial community by plants may be an important trait that trades off with growth, flowering, and seed size for promoting plant establishment, reproduction, and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney E. Gomola
- Bioagricultural Sciences and Pest Management, C129 Plant SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
- Graduate Degree Program in EcologyColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - John K. McKay
- Bioagricultural Sciences and Pest Management, C129 Plant SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
- Graduate Degree Program in EcologyColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Matthew D. Wallenstein
- Natural Resource Ecology LaboratoryColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
- Department of Soil and Crop SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Cameron Wagg
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental StudiesUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Michael J. O'Brien
- Estación Experimental de Zonas ÁridasConsejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasAlmeríaSpain
- URPP Global Change and BiodiversityUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
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18
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DeMalach N, Kadmon R. Seed mass diversity along resource gradients: the role of allometric growth rate and size-asymmetric competition. Ecology 2018; 99:2196-2206. [DOI: 10.1002/ecy.2450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Niv DeMalach
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior; The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Givat Ram Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Ronen Kadmon
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior; The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Givat Ram Jerusalem 91904 Israel
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19
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Dani KGS, Kodandaramaiah U. Plant and Animal Reproductive Strategies: Lessons from Offspring Size and Number Tradeoffs. Front Ecol Evol 2017. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2017.00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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20
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Züst T, Agrawal AA. Trade-Offs Between Plant Growth and Defense Against Insect Herbivory: An Emerging Mechanistic Synthesis. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PLANT BIOLOGY 2017; 68:513-534. [PMID: 28142282 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-arplant-042916-040856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 239] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Costs of defense are central to our understanding of interactions between organisms and their environment, and defensive phenotypes of plants have long been considered to be constrained by trade-offs that reflect the allocation of limiting resources. Recent advances in uncovering signal transduction networks have revealed that defense trade-offs are often the result of regulatory "decisions" by the plant, enabling it to fine-tune its phenotype in response to diverse environmental challenges. We place these results in the context of classic studies in ecology and evolutionary biology, and propose a unifying framework for growth-defense trade-offs as a means to study the plant's allocation of limiting resources. Pervasive physiological costs constrain the upper limit to growth and defense traits, but the diversity of selective pressures on plants often favors negative correlations at intermediate trait levels. Despite the ubiquity of underlying costs of defense, the current challenge is using physiological and molecular approaches to predict the conditions where they manifest as detectable trade-offs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Züst
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, 3013 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Anurag A Agrawal
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853;
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21
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Martínez-Garza C, Campo J, Ricker M, Tobón W. Effect of initial soil properties on six-year growth of 15 tree species in tropical restoration plantings. Ecol Evol 2016; 6:8686-8694. [PMID: 28035260 PMCID: PMC5192957 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Revised: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In restoration plantings in degraded pastures, initial soil nutrient status may lead to differential growth of tropical tree species with diverse life history attributes and capacity for N2 fixation. In 2006, we planted 1,440 seedlings of 15 native tree species in 16 fenced plots (30 × 30 m) in a 60‐year‐old pasture in Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico, in two planting combinations. In the first year, we evaluated bulk density, pH, the concentration of organic carbon (C), total nitrogen (N), ammonia (NO3−), nitrate (NH4+), and total phosphorus (P) in the upper soil profile (0–20 cm in depth) of all plots. The first two axes of two principal component analyses explained more than 60% of the variation in soil variables: The axes were related to increasing bulk density, NO3−, NH4+, total N concentration, and pH. Average relative growth rates in diameter at the stem base of the juvenile trees after 6 years were higher for pioneer (45.7%) and N2‐fixing species (47.6%) than for nonpioneer (34.7%) and nonfixing species (36.2%). Most N2‐fixing species and those with the slowest growth rates did not respond to soil attributes. Tree species benefited from higher pH levels and existing litter biomass. The pioneers Ficus yoponensis, Cecropia obtusifolia, and Heliocarpus appendiculatus, and the N2‐fixing nonpioneers Cojoba arborea, Inga sinacae, and Platymiscium dimorphandrum were promising for forest restoration on our site, given their high growth rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Martínez-Garza
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Conservación Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos Cuernavaca Mexico
| | - Julio Campo
- Instituto de Ecología Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City Mexico
| | - Martin Ricker
- Instituto de Biología Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City Mexico
| | - Wolke Tobón
- Comisión Nacional para el Conocimiento y Uso de la Biodiversidad (CONABIO) Mexico City Mexico
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22
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Preece C, Livarda A, Christin PA, Wallace M, Martin G, Charles M, Jones G, Rees M, Osborne CP. How did the domestication of Fertile Crescent grain crops increase their yields? Funct Ecol 2016; 31:387-397. [PMID: 28286354 PMCID: PMC5324541 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.12760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The origins of agriculture, 10 000 years ago, led to profound changes in the biology of plants exploited as grain crops, through the process of domestication. This special case of evolution under cultivation led to domesticated cereals and pulses requiring humans for their dispersal, but the accompanying mechanisms causing higher productivity in these plants remain unknown. The classical view of crop domestication is narrow, focusing on reproductive and seed traits including the dispersal, dormancy and size of seeds, without considering whole-plant characteristics. However, the effects of initial domestication events can be inferred from consistent differences between traditional landraces and their wild progenitors.We studied how domestication increased the yields of Fertile Crescent cereals and pulses using a greenhouse experiment to compare landraces with wild progenitors. We grew eight crops: barley, einkorn and emmer wheat, oat, rye, chickpea, lentil and pea. In each case, comparison of multiple landraces with their wild progenitors enabled us to quantify the effects of domestication rather than subsequent crop diversification. To reveal the mechanisms underpinning domestication-linked yield increases, we measured traits beyond those classically associated with domestication, including the rate and duration of growth, reproductive allocation, plant size and also seed mass and number.Cereal and pulse crops had on average 50% higher yields than their wild progenitors, resulting from a 40% greater final plant size, 90% greater individual seed mass and 38% less chaff or pod material, although this varied between species. Cereal crops also had a higher seed number per spike compared with their wild ancestors. However, there were no differences in growth rate, total seed number, proportion of reproductive biomass or the duration of growth.The domestication of Fertile Crescent crops resulted in larger seed size leading to a larger plant size, and also a reduction in chaff, with no decrease in seed number per individual, which proved a powerful package of traits for increasing yield. We propose that the important steps in the domestication process should be reconsidered, and the domestication syndrome broadened to include a wider range of traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Preece
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield S10 2TN UK; CREAF Campus de Bellaterra (UAB) Edifici C08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès Spain
| | - Alexandra Livarda
- Department of Archaeology University of Nottingham Nottingham NG7 2RD UK
| | | | - Michael Wallace
- Department of Archaeology University of Sheffield Sheffield S1 4ET UK
| | - Gemma Martin
- Department of Archaeology University of Sheffield Sheffield S1 4ET UK
| | - Michael Charles
- Institute of Archaeology University of Oxford Oxford OX1 2PG UK
| | - Glynis Jones
- Department of Archaeology University of Sheffield Sheffield S1 4ET UK
| | - Mark Rees
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield S10 2TN UK
| | - Colin P Osborne
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield S10 2TN UK
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23
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Abbott JM, Stachowicz JJ. The relative importance of trait vs. genetic differentiation for the outcome of interactions among plant genotypes. Ecology 2016; 97:84-94. [PMID: 27008778 DOI: 10.1890/15-0148.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Functional trait differences and genetic distance are increasingly used as metrics to predict the. outcome of species interactions and the maintenance of diversity. We apply these ideas to intraspecific diversity for the seagrass Zostera marina (eelgrass), by explicitly testing the influence of trait distance and genetic relatedness on the outcome of pairwise interactions among eelgrass genotypes. Increasing trait distance (but not relatedness) between eelgrass genotypes decreased the likelihood that both would persist over a year-long field experiment, contrary to our expectations based on niche partitioning. In plots in which one genotype excluded another, the biomass and growth of the remaining genotype increased with the trait distance and genetic relatedness of the initial pair, presumably due to a legacy of past interactions. Together these results suggest that sustained competition among functionally similar genotypes did not produce a clear winner, but rapid exclusion occurred among genotypes with distinct trait combinations. Borrowing from coexistence theory, we argue that fitness differences between genotypes with distinct traits overwhelmed any stabilizing effects of niche differentiation. Previously observed effects of eelgrass genetic diversity on performance may rely on nonadditive interactions among multiple genotypes or sufficient environmental heterogeneity to increase stabilizing forces and/or interactions.
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White AC, Rogers A, Rees M, Osborne CP. How can we make plants grow faster? A source-sink perspective on growth rate. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2016; 67:31-45. [PMID: 26466662 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erv447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Growth is a major component of fitness in all organisms, an important mediator of competitive interactions in plant communities, and a central determinant of yield in crops. Understanding what limits plant growth is therefore of fundamental importance to plant evolution, ecology, and crop science, but each discipline views the process from a different perspective. This review highlights the importance of source-sink interactions as determinants of growth. The evidence for source- and sink-limitation of growth, and the ways in which regulatory molecular feedback systems act to maintain an appropriate source:sink balance, are first discussed. Evidence clearly shows that future increases in crop productivity depend crucially on a quantitative understanding of the extent to which sources or sinks limit growth, and how this changes during development. To identify bottlenecks limiting growth and yield, a holistic view of growth is required at the whole-plant scale, incorporating mechanistic interactions between physiology, resource allocation, and plant development. Such a holistic perspective on source-sink interactions will allow the development of a more integrated, whole-system level understanding of growth, with benefits across multiple disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela C White
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Alistair Rogers
- Biological, Environmental and Climate Sciences Department, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY 11973, USA
| | - Mark Rees
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Colin P Osborne
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
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25
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Fedriani JM, Garrote PJ, Delgado MDM, Penteriani V. Subtle Gardeners: Inland Predators Enrich Local Topsoils and Enhance Plant Growth. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138273. [PMID: 26383647 PMCID: PMC4575068 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Inland vertebrate predators could enrich of nutrients the local top soils in the area surrounding their nests and dens by depositing faeces, urine, and prey remains and, thus, alter the dynamics of plant populations. Surprisingly, and in contrast with convincing evidence from coastal habitats, whether and how this phenomenon occurs in inland habitats is largely uncertain even though these habitats represent a major fraction of the earth's surface. We investigated during two consecutive breeding seasons the potential enrichment of the top-soils associated with inland ground-nesting eagle owls Bubo bubo, as well as its possible consequences in the growth of two common annual grasses in southern Spain. Top-soils associated with owl nests differed strongly and significantly from control top-soils in chemical parameters, mainly fertility-related properties. Specifically, levels of available phosphorus, total nitrogen, organic matter, and available potassium were 49.1, 5.6, 3.1, and 2.7 times higher, respectively, in top-soils associated with owl nests as compared to control top-soils. Germination experiments in chambers indicated that nutrient enrichment by nesting owls enhanced seedling growth in both annual grasses (Phalaris canariensis and Avena sativa), with seedling size being 1.4-1.3 times higher in owl nest top-soils than in control top-soils. Our experimental study revealed that pervasive inland, predatory birds can profoundly enrich the topsoil around their nests and, thus, potentially enhance local vegetation growth. Because diverse inland vertebrate predators are widespread in most habitats they have a strong potential to enhance spatial heterogeneity, impinge on plant communities, and exert an overlooked effect on primary productivity worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M. Fedriani
- Centre for Applied Ecology "Prof. Baeta Neves"/InBIO, Institute Superior of Agronomy, University of Lisbon, Tapada da Ajuda, Lisboa, Portugal
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana, C.S.I.C., c/ Americo Vespucio s/n, Seville, Spain
| | - Pedro José Garrote
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana, C.S.I.C., c/ Americo Vespucio s/n, Seville, Spain
| | - María del Mar Delgado
- Metapopulation Research Group, Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Research Unit of Biodiversity (UMIB, UO-CSIC-PA), Oviedo University - Campus Mieres, Mieres, Spain
| | - Vincenzo Penteriani
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana, C.S.I.C., c/ Americo Vespucio s/n, Seville, Spain
- Metapopulation Research Group, Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Research Unit of Biodiversity (UMIB, UO-CSIC-PA), Oviedo University - Campus Mieres, Mieres, Spain
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26
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Lemmermeyer S, Lörcher L, van Kleunen M, Dawson W. Testing the Plant Growth-Defense Hypothesis Belowground: Do Faster-Growing Herbaceous Plant Species Suffer More Negative Effects from Soil Biota than Slower-Growing Ones? Am Nat 2015; 186:264-71. [PMID: 26655154 DOI: 10.1086/682005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
According to the growth-defense hypothesis in ecology, faster-growing plant species should suffer more from herbivores and pathogens than slower-growing species. Tests of this hypothesis have focused on aboveground plant tissues, herbivores, and pathogens; however, it should also apply to root defense. To test whether faster-growing species suffer more negatively from soil biota than slower-growing species, we estimated first-season growth rates of 34 herbaceous plant species and used weighted linear regressions to assess the relationship between growth rates and responses to being grown in sterilized versus unsterilized soil (biotic soil effects) and to growing in soil previously occupied by conspecifics versus a mixture of species (conspecific soil effects). We found a negative relationship between relative growth rate and biotic soil effects, with slower-growing species tending to suffer less or even benefit from the presence of soil biota, while faster-growing species were more negatively affected. Biotic soil effects were also negatively related to size-corrected growth rates. These relationships remained negative after accounting for influential species, but a large amount of variation remained unexplained. Moreover, there was no clear relationship between growth rates and conspecific soil effects. A simple relationship between growth and defense aboveground may not be so clearly reflected belowground because of the many interacting antagonistic and mutualistic organisms likely involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Lemmermeyer
- Biology Department, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstrasse 10, Konstanz D-78457, Germany
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27
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Philipson CD, Dent DH, O’Brien MJ, Chamagne J, Dzulkifli D, Nilus R, Philips S, Reynolds G, Saner P, Hector A. A trait-based trade-off between growth and mortality: evidence from 15 tropical tree species using size-specific relative growth rates. Ecol Evol 2014; 4:3675-88. [PMID: 25478157 PMCID: PMC4224540 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2014] [Revised: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A life-history trade-off between low mortality in the dark and rapid growth in the light is one of the most widely accepted mechanisms underlying plant ecological strategies in tropical forests. Differences in plant functional traits are thought to underlie these distinct ecological strategies; however, very few studies have shown relationships between functional traits and demographic rates within a functional group. We present 8 years of growth and mortality data from saplings of 15 species of Dipterocarpaceae planted into logged-over forest in Malaysian Borneo, and the relationships between these demographic rates and four key functional traits: wood density, specific leaf area (SLA), seed mass, and leaf C:N ratio. Species-specific differences in growth rates were separated from seedling size effects by fitting nonlinear mixed-effects models, to repeated measurements taken on individuals at multiple time points. Mortality data were analyzed using binary logistic regressions in a mixed-effects models framework. Growth increased and mortality decreased with increasing light availability. Species differed in both their growth and mortality rates, yet there was little evidence for a statistical interaction between species and light for either response. There was a positive relationship between growth rate and the predicted probability of mortality regardless of light environment, suggesting that this relationship may be driven by a general trade-off between traits that maximize growth and traits that minimize mortality, rather than through differential species responses to light. Our results indicate that wood density is an important trait that indicates both the ability of species to grow and resistance to mortality, but no other trait was correlated with either growth or mortality. Therefore, the growth mortality trade-off among species of dipterocarp appears to be general in being independent of species crossovers in performance in different light environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Philipson
- Mountain Ecosystems, WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research, SLFFlüelastrasse 11, CH-7260, Davos Dorf, Switzerland
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of ZurichZurich, Switzerland
| | - Daisy H Dent
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of StirlingStirling, UK
- Smithsonian Tropical Research InstituteApartado, Postal 0843-03092, Balboa, Panama
| | - Michael J O’Brien
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of ZurichZurich, Switzerland
| | - Juliette Chamagne
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of ZurichZurich, Switzerland
| | - Dzaeman Dzulkifli
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of ZurichZurich, Switzerland
| | - Reuben Nilus
- Forest Research CentreSepilok, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Sam Philips
- Kasanka National ParkZambia, Central Province, Zambia
| | - Glen Reynolds
- The Royal Society South-East Asian Rainforest Research Programme, Danum Valley Field CentreSabah, Malaysia
| | - Philippe Saner
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of ZurichZurich, Switzerland
| | - Andy Hector
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of OxfordSouth Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RB, UK
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Wang Y, Wang J, Lai L, Jiang L, Zhuang P, Zhang L, Zheng Y, Baskin JM, Baskin CC. Geographic variation in seed traits within and among forty-two species of Rhododendron (Ericaceae) on the Tibetan plateau: relationships with altitude, habitat, plant height, and phylogeny. Ecol Evol 2014; 4:1913-23. [PMID: 24963385 PMCID: PMC4063484 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Revised: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Seed mass and morphology are plant life history traits that influence seed dispersal ability, seeding establishment success, and population distribution pattern. Southeastern Tibet is a diversity center for Rhododendron species, which are distributed from a few hundred meters to 5500 m above sea level. We examined intra- and interspecific variation in seed mass and morphology in relation to altitude, habitat, plant height, and phylogeny. Seed mass decreased significantly with the increasing altitude and increased significantly with increasing plant height among populations of the same species. Seed mass differed significantly among species and subsections, but not among sections and subgenera. Seed length, width, surface area, and wing length were significantly negative correlated with altitude and significantly positive correlated with plant height. Further, these traits differed significantly among habitats and varied among species and subsection, but not among sections and subgenera. Species at low elevation had larger seeds with larger wings, and seeds became smaller and the wings of seeds tended to be smaller with the increasing altitude. Morphology of the seed varied from flat round to long cylindrical with increasing altitude. We suggest that seed mass and morphology have evolved as a result of both long-term adaptation and constraints of the taxonomic group over their long evolutionary history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongji Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Plants, Beijing Botanical Garden, West China Subalpine Botanical Garden, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, Xiangshan, China ; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Jianjian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Plants, Beijing Botanical Garden, West China Subalpine Botanical Garden, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, Xiangshan, China ; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Liming Lai
- Key Laboratory of Resource Plants, Beijing Botanical Garden, West China Subalpine Botanical Garden, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, Xiangshan, China
| | - Lianhe Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Plants, Beijing Botanical Garden, West China Subalpine Botanical Garden, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, Xiangshan, China
| | - Ping Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Plants, Beijing Botanical Garden, West China Subalpine Botanical Garden, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, Xiangshan, China
| | - Lehua Zhang
- Lushan Botanical Garden, Jiangxi Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, 332900, China
| | - Yuanrun Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Resource Plants, Beijing Botanical Garden, West China Subalpine Botanical Garden, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing, Xiangshan, China
| | - Jerry M Baskin
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky Lexington, Kentucky, 40506
| | - Carol C Baskin
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky Lexington, Kentucky, 40506 ; Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Kentucky Lexington, Kentucky, 40546
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Cunniff J, Wilkinson S, Charles M, Jones G, Rees M, Osborne CP. Functional traits differ between cereal crop progenitors and other wild grasses gathered in the Neolithic fertile crescent. PLoS One 2014; 9:e87586. [PMID: 24489941 PMCID: PMC3905035 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0087586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Accepted: 12/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The reasons why some plant species were selected as crops and others were abandoned during the Neolithic emergence of agriculture are poorly understood. We tested the hypothesis that the traits of Fertile Crescent crop progenitors were advantageous in the fertile, disturbed habitats surrounding early settlements and in cultivated fields. We screened functional traits related to competition and disturbance in a group of grass species that were increasingly exploited by early plant gatherers, and that were later domesticated (crop progenitors); and in a set of grass species for which there is archaeological evidence of gathering, but which were never domesticated (wild species). We hypothesised that crop progenitors would have greater seed mass, growth rate, height and yield than wild species, as these traits are indicative of greater competitive ability, and that crop progenitors would be more resilient to defoliation. Our results show that crop progenitors have larger seed mass than wild species, germinate faster and have greater seedling size. Increased seed size is weakly but positively correlated with a higher growth rate, which is primarily driven by greater biomass assimilation per unit leaf area. Crop progenitors also tend to have a taller stature, greater grain yield and higher resilience to defoliation. Collectively, the data are consistent with the hypothesis that adaptations to competition and disturbance gave crop progenitors a selective advantage in the areas surrounding early human settlements and in cultivated environments, leading to their adoption as crops through processes of unconscious selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Cunniff
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Wilkinson
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Charles
- School of Archaeology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Glynis Jones
- Department of Archaeology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Rees
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Colin P. Osborne
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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30
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Houghton J, Thompson K, Rees M. Does seed mass drive the differences in relative growth rate between growth forms? Proc Biol Sci 2013; 280:20130921. [PMID: 23677351 PMCID: PMC3673064 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2013.0921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The idea that herbaceous plants have higher relative growth rates (RGRs) compared with woody plants is fundamental to many of the most influential theories in plant ecology. This difference in growth rate is thought to reflect systematic variation in physiology, allocation and leaf construction. Previous studies documenting this effect have, however, ignored differences in seed mass. As woody species often have larger seeds and RGR is negatively correlated with seed mass, it is entirely possible the lower RGRs observed in woody species is a consequence of having larger seeds rather than different growth strategies. Using a synthesis of the published literature, we explored the relationship between RGR and growth form, accounting for the effects of seed mass and study-specific effects (e.g. duration of study and pot volume), using a mixed-effects model. The model showed that herbaceous species do indeed have higher RGRs than woody species, and that the difference was independent of seed mass, thus at all seed masses, herbaceous species on average grow faster than woody ones.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mark Rees
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
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31
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Turnbull LA, Levine JM, Loreau M, Hector A. Coexistence, niches and biodiversity effects on ecosystem functioning. Ecol Lett 2012; 16 Suppl 1:116-27. [PMID: 23279851 DOI: 10.1111/ele.12056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2012] [Revised: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
General principles from coexistence theory are often invoked to explain how and why mixtures of species outperform monocultures. However, the complementarity and selection effects commonly measured in biodiversity experiments do not precisely quantify the niche and relative fitness differences that govern species coexistence. Given this lack of direct correspondence, how can we know whether species-rich mixtures are stable and that the benefits of diversity will therefore persist? We develop a resource-based included-niche model in which plant species have asymmetric access to a nested set of belowground resource pools. We use the model to show that positive complementarity effects arise from stabilising niche differences, but do not necessarily lead to stable coexistence and hence can be transient. In addition, these transient complementarity effects occur in the model when there is no complementary resource use among species. Including a trade-off between uptake rates and the size of the resource pool stabilised interactions and led to persistent complementarity coupled with weak or negative selection effects, consistent with results from the longest-running field biodiversity experiments. We suggest that future progress requires a greater mechanistic understanding of the links between ecosystem functions and their underlying biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Ann Turnbull
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
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