Phenotypic plasticity of two invasive alien plant species inside a deciduous forest in a strict nature reserve in Italy |
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Authors: | Mirko Umberto Granata Francesco Bracco |
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Institution: | Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy |
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Abstract: | ABSTRACTInvasive alien plant species (IAPs) represent one of the main biological threats to biodiversity worldwide. Information about their phenotypic plasticity are needed to increase awareness about their future invasive potential. A study about phenotypic plasticity in response to contrasting light regimes and its quantification by a plasticity index (PI) of two IAPs (Ailanthus altissima and Robinia pseudoacacia) inside a Strict Nature Reserve was conducted. R. pseudoacacia showed a 70% higher PI, with a strongly greater value at morphological leaf level, associated with a greater ability to survive and grow in forest understory, explaining its greater widespread. Otherwise, A. altissima showed its highest PI at physiological level, which was associated with the ability to colonize and grow in environments with high-light regimes. Based on these results, the conservative management has limited the presence of A. altissima by its lower ability to grow in forest understory. In fact, the small-scale gaps in the forest infrastructure, that could allow its recruitment, are originated only from the death of a single tree or small group of trees. Regarding R. pseudoacacia, it is critical to maintain this type of management because any disturbances resulting in large openings could further promote its presence inside the Reserve. |
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Keywords: | Specific leaf area net photosynthetic rate leaf respiration black locust tree of heaven phenotypic plasticity index |
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