Variations and Coordination of Leaflet and Petiole Functional Traits Within Compound Leaves in Three Hardwood Species
2025
Xiaohui Guo | Jinshan Zhang | Jiacun Gu | Zhongyue Li | Yan Wang
Leaf morphology and anatomy traits are key determinants for plant performance: however, their roles within compound leaves&mdash:comprising both leaflets and petioles&mdash:remain insufficiently studied. This study examined the anatomy, morphology, and biomass allocation of leaflets and petioles in three temperate species (Fraxinus mandshurica Rupr., Juglans mandshurica Maxim., and Phellodendron amurense Rupr.). The results showed pronounced anatomical variations within the whole leaf. Specifically, as phyllotaxy increased, the number of conduits significantly increased in petioles but showed less variation. Within the same growth position, the number of conduits was highest in the petiole, followed by the petiolule, main vein, and minor veins. In the terminal leaf vascular network, thinner conduits of minor veins may result in a lower hydraulic efficiency but a higher resistance to embolism. Biomass allocation favored leaflets over petioles in all three examined species. Additionally, the specific leaf area slightly increased with an increase in the degree of phyllotaxy. These findings underscore the trade-offs of efficiency and safety in vascular tissues, as well as the expanding leaf and investment between the leaflet and petiole.
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