Alpine forbs rely on different photoprotective strategies during spring snowmelt

Snowmelt in alpine ecosystems brings ample water, and together with above-freezing temperatures, initiates plant growth. In this scenario, rapid activation of photosynthesis is essential for a successful life-history strategy. But, strong solar radiation late spring enhances the risk photodamage, particularly before fully functional. We compared photoprotective strategy five forbs: one geophyte not specialised subnival life (Crocus albiflorus) four wintergreens differing their degree adaptation to life, from least most specialised: Gentiana acaulis, Geum montanum, Homogyne alpina Soldanella alpina. used distance edge snow patches as proxy study time-dependent changes after melting. postulated that response snowbed specialists would be stronger than more-generalist meadow species. Fv /Fm was relatively low across even lower C. albiflorus. This species also had largest xanthophyll-cycle pool lowest tocopherol flavonoid glycoside contents. After melting, all progressively activated ETR, but intermediate G. acaulis montanum. The responses snowmelt were idiosyncratic: montanum rapidly accumulated pigments, glycosides; while S. showed increase plastochromanol-8 chlorophyll contents greatest optical properties. Climate warming scenarios might shift date consequently alter effectiveness photoprotection mechanisms, potentially changing fitness outcome different strategies adopted by forbs.