Phenotypic Plasticity of Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus (Gomes) Landrum Under Different Light Conditions

Abstract

The heterogeneous light pattern in forest environments leads to specific morphological and physiological responses. However, anthropogenic pressures in areas such as Atlantic Forest and Cerrado are modifying the light availability, and consequently the forest community composition. The aim of this study was to investigate the plasticity of forest species Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus under full sunlight and shade conditions. P. pseudocaryophyllus showed typical shade plant phenotype, with higher net photosynthesis, transpiration, and chlorophyll a and b contents when cultivated under this condition. The decrease in net photosynthesis under full sunlight conditions is probably related to PSII photoinhibition. In addition, under full sunlight, reduced height, number of leaves, and specific leaf area was observed, while plants in shade increased these characteristics. P. pseudocaryophyllus did not show high morphological and physiological plasticity, which may be a maladaptive response. It was concluded that forest disturbances could compromise the occurrence and survival of P. pseudocaryophyllus.

Proteomic and Physiological Signatures of Altitude Adaptation in aMyrsine coriaceaPopulation under Common Garden Conditions

“…In a rapidly changing climate, plants face distinct environmental challenges compared to those experienced by their ancestors in recent evolutionary history. One way in which plants respond to these changes is through environmentally induced changes in phenotype (Mendonça et al ., 2019; Pérez-Ramos et al ., 2019). Plant species can adjust to these new conditions through phenotypic plasticity, adapt through natural selection, or disperse and establish in areas with conditions similar to those where they are adapted, and these options are not mutually exclusive (Crispo, 2008; Malhi et al ., 2010).…”

Plasticidade fenotípica de Psidium cattleianum (Myrtaceae) em ambiente insular e continental na baía Babitonga em São Francisco do Sul, Santa Catarina

“…A disponibilidade luminosa é um dos fatores cruciais para a sobrevivência e o desenvolvimento, afetando diretamente a resposta das espécies vegetais, podendo gerar alterações morfoanatômicas e/ou fisiológicas, e interferindo na composição e no funcionamento das comunidades vegetais (Givnish, 1988;Cardoso e Lomônoco, 2003;Gratani et al, 2006). A intensidade luminosa está diretamente relacionada aos mecanismos de crescimento e desenvolvimento, afetando a expansão foliar, o crescimento (Mendonça et al, 2019) e a sucessão ecológica (Poorter, 2001;Wu et al, 2019).…”