Gap-Dependence and Leaf Characteristics of Trees in a Tropical Lowland Rain Forest in Mexico

Abstract

Woody tropical rain forest species were grouped according to their dependence on gaps for regeneration as obligate gap species, gap-dependent and gap-independent species. Differences in leaf size, shape, anatomy, and mineral nutrient concentrations among these species groups were studied. Obligate gap species had larger leaves than both gap-dependent species and gap-independent species. Gap-independent species had more elongated leaves, and had larger stomata but a lower density of stomata. Gap-dependent species had higher specific leaf weight values and more N and P per unit area than the two other species groups. Gap-dependent species also has more K per unit area and thicker leaves than obligate gap species (...)