Increased phenotypic plasticity linked to broader geographic range size in sunflower (Helianthus) species

Human activity worsens global biodiversity loss, particularly for vulnerable rare species. Plant species can respond to environmental changes via adaptation and/or acclimation or migration, yet limited genetic diversity and fitness in rare species can hinder these processes. Changes in light availability from human activities impact the growth and fitness of broadleaf species like sunflowers (Helianthus spp.). In a garden experiment, we compared the phenotypic plasticity of five Helianthus species representing different geographic ranges. Locally restricted H. longifolius and H. verticillatus showed less plasticity in growth and allocation traits than widespread H. angustifolius and H. maximiliani. Rare species with narrower ranges also displayed less population-level plasticity compared to common species. Geographically restricted rare species may struggle to acclimate to changes in light availability caused by human activities, which could increase extinction vulnerability. Conservation efforts should target limiting invasive and woody species to mitigate reduced light availability in their native habitats.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Year dc:date.available

2024

Author dc:creator

• Wiegand, Thomas

Contributors dc:contributor

• Boyd, Jennifer N.
• Klug, Hope; Cruse-Sanders, Jennifer M.
• College of Arts and Sciences

• Sunflowers--Effect of light on
• Phenotypic plasticity

Licence

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language

English, eng

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholar.utc.edu/theses/836

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholar.utc.edu:theses-2013