Limited evidence of coupling between above and belowground functional traits in tropical dry forest seedlings

Introduction: Water availability is one of the main factors determining distribution woody species in tropics. Although functional mechanisms that determine tolerance to water deficit have been extensively studied adult individuals, responses early ontogenetic stages less explored. Objective: To identify strategies and trait correlations between different seedlings' dimensions (leaf, stem, root). We expect limited coordination above below-ground traits due a single conservation-acquisition trade-off cannot capture variability functions environmental pressures which root system subjected. Methods: measured 12 belonging 38 seedling tropical dry forest Colombia. explored relationships pairs using Pearson correlations, obtain an integrated view traits, principal component analysis (PCA) was performed. Results: The results showed evidence linkage above- but we did find significant for continuum conservative acquisitive strategies. Root related nutrient take capacity formed orthogonal axis acquisitive-conservative continuum. Conclusions: Our seedlings cope with deficit. incorporation helps explain new not reported leaf stem traits. This study contributes understanding coexistence particularly relevant predicting future trajectories.