Structural adjustment of Schwartzia brasiliensis (Marcgraviaceae) in two restinga formations

Abstract This study investigated the foliar plasticity in Schwartzia brasiliensis restinga formations (shrub and shrub-tree restinga) southern Brazil. In each area, 10 individuals were selected leaves sunlight collected for an analysis of functional leaf traits, including: fresh dry mass, specific succulence, stem diameter, plant height tissue thickness. Environmental variables measured considering soil mineral nutrition, water availability photosynthetically active radiation. Phenotypic index was calculated studied attribute. We compared means with a Student’s t-test weight environmental PCA. Results showed that main traits differentiated populations lamina thickness height, while predictor gravimetric humidity, solar radiation, CEC, phosphorus content salinity. shrub restinga, there is greater investment mechanical support as saving strategy due to exposure photosynthetic production, since shade provided by treetops other species attenuates radiation effect. Despite low plastic potential, present structural adjustments respond heterogeneity.