An Ecologial Significance of Seasonal Leaf Variability in a Desert Shrub
1969
Cunningham, G. L. | Strain, B. R.
Encelia farinosa is one of a number of species of desert perennial shrubs in which individuals exhibit considerable seasonal variation in the amount and structure of leaf tissue. The function of seasonal leaf variability in adapting this species to the desert environment was investigated. Field observations demonstrated that leaf quantity and structure are controlled by the moisture status of the environment. The field observations also established the influence which leaf quantity and structure have on the CO₂ exchange capacity and water status of the shrub. These observations were corroborated by laboratory experiments. The laboratory investigations also indicated that the influences of leaf structure are brought about by alterations in the resistances to CO₂ and water vapor diffusion.
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