Phenotypic plasticity in Amelanchier in response to difference in nutrient and light availability.

Abstract

The phenotypic plasticity in genus Amelanchier was studied by observing the relationship between abiota and individual plant morphology and physiology. Measurements of species richness were taken in each of the 1918, 1948, and 1998 UMBS burn plots, as well as the measurements of height, canopy coverage, average leaf surface area, soil moisture, ammonium content, pH, and light saturation curves of each individual Amelanchier. No correlations were found between average leaf surface area and canopy coverage, plant height, soil moisture, or ammonium content. Correlations were found between canopy coverage and leaf saturation points, compensation points, and maximum photosynthetic rate, indicating that light availability strongly influences Amelanchier's ability to photosynthesize. Specific leaf area was calculated for the leaves which were used to determine the light saturation curves. Strong correlations were found between specific leaf area and specific leaf saturation point, compensation point, and maximum photosynthetic rate, suggesting specific leaf area is a modulating factor affecting Amelanchier's ability to photosynthesize. From these data, we conclude that Amelanchier's success in various light environments is at least partially due to its phenotypic plasticity.