Abstract

MERCADO, María I. et al. Photosynthetic and foliar morpho-anatomical strategies of L/gustrum sinense (Oleaceae), an invasive exotic species in the Yungas forest understory. Bol. Soc. Argent. Bot. [online]. 2023, vol.58, n.2, pp.5-5.  Epub June 01, 2023. ISSN 1851-2372.  http://dx.doi.org/110.31055/1851.2372.v58.n2.40335.

Background and aims: Ligustrum sinense (Chínese privet) is a recognized invasive exotic species. The objective of this study was to determine the physiological and foliar anatomical traits of Chinese privet saplings that would give it an advantage for its establishment in the understory of the Yungas forest environment.

M&M: This study was conducted in Parque Nacional Aconquija (Tucumán, Argentina). The foliar physiological and morpho-anatomical traits deployed were investigated in an understory environment during spring-summer and winter. The anatomical features of the leaf blade and physiological variables related to gas exchange were analyzed. Also, the specific leaf area, leaf density, leaf nitrogen content and photosynthetic nitrogen-use efficiency were calculated.

Results: During spring-summer L. sinense displays a higher photosynthetic assimilation rate and a better photosynthetic nitrogen-use efficiency. Carboxylation efficiency, intrinsic water use efficiency, and leaf thickness were 26%, 34%, and 41% higher, respectively, during winter in contrast to spring-summer. In the winter an increase in leaf thickness contributed to improved CO2 incorporation under suboptimal conditions for photosynthesis.

Conclusions: Chinese privet undergoes photosynthesis throughout the year and its success as an invasive species in the Yungas forest understory could be attributed at least in part to morpho-anatomical and physiological strategies.

Keywords : Biological invasion; Chinese privet; leaf anatomy; Northwestern Argentine; photosynthesis; subtropical forest; water use efficiency.

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