Xibei zhiwu xuebao (Jan 2024)
Response of leaf functional traits of Calligonum mongolicum to habitat changes
Abstract
[Objective] This study aims to reveal the variation patterns of leaf functional traits of Calligonum mongolicum in different habitats in Minqin, Gansu Province, China, and to explore the adaptation strategies of C. mongolicum to the arid desert environment. [Methods] This study took C. mongolicum in the oasis-desert transitional zone as the object, and using sampling methods to collect well growing leaves from the central part of the sample plants in four directions: east, west, north, and south. Soil samples in the depth of 0-60 cm near the roots of plants were collected using a soil drill. The leaf functional traits and correlation of C. mongolicum under two habitats, interdune lowland and active sand dune, were analyzed. The relationship between leaf functional traits and soil factors were analyzed. [Results] (1) the variable coefficient of leaf functional traits was between 2.39% and 24.94%, where specific leaf area (SLA) was the largest (24.94%) while the stable carbon isotope (δ13C) was the smallest (2.39%). There was significant difference in total carbon content (LCC) and total phosphorus content (LPC) of C. mongolicum leaves between the two sites, while there were significant differences in SLA and LPC between the two habitats. (2) The leaf water content (LWC) and leaf dry material content (LDMC) were extremely significantly (P <0.01) and significantly (P <0.05) negatively correlated under the two habitats, respectively. LWC was the top three common index factor in the comprehensive ranking of leaf functional traits of C. mongolicum under the two habitats. (3) Soil total nitrogen content (STN), pH value, and soil moisture content (SMC) were the main soil factors affecting the variation of leaf functional traits. [Conclusion] C. mongolicum could better adapt to the habitat by changing leaf morphology, regulating nutrient content, and interacting with soil factors.
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