Field-simulated droughts affect elemental leaf stoichiometry in Mediterranean forests and shrublands

摘要: Abstract This study evaluated the change induced by year season and experimentally drought on foliar element stoichiometry of predominant woody species (Quercus ilex Erica multiflora) in two Mediterranean ecosystems, a forest shrubland. is based long-term (11 yr) field experiments that simulated throughout annual cycle. The effects experimental droughts were significant but weaker than changes produced ontogeny seasonality. Leaf N P concentrations higher spring (the main growing season) E. multiflora and, Q. ilex autumn (a period additional growth). N:P ratios lower spring. In Q. ilex, highest leaf K K:P ratios, lowest C:K N:K occurred summer, when water stress was greatest. E. multiflora, highest, plants from drought-treated plots. plant capacity to response seasonality at least as great concentrations. results underscore importance its relative C, dry environments. These indicate first, ratio shifts are not uniquely related growth rate also drought, second, there need take into account ecological studies terrestrial plants.