Foliar Water Uptake Capacity in Six Mangrove Species

Foliar water uptake (FWU) is a mechanism that enables plants to acquire from the atmosphere through their leaves. As mangroves live in saline sediment environment, of FWU might be vital importance freshwater and grow. The goal this study was assess capacity six different mangrove species belonging four genera using series submersion experiments which leaf mass increase measured expressed per unit area. foliar differed between with highest lowest average Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. (1.52 ± 0.48 mg H2O cm−2) Bruguiera gymnorhiza (L.) Lam. (0.13 0.06 cm−2), respectively. Salt-excreting showed higher than non-excreting species. Moreover, A. marina, salt-excreting species, distinct anatomical trait, i.e., trichomes, were not observed other involved absorption process. storage leaves moist Ziplock bags prior measurement caused already occur during transport field station, proportionately increased potential (A. marina: −0.31 0.13 MPa B. gymnorhiza: −2.70 0.27 MPa). This should considered when performing best practice measurements but did affect quantification because gradient surrounding submersion. Our results highlight differences exist residing same area growing under environmental conditions. comparative therefore enhances our understanding species’ functioning.