The ecological significance of plasticity in root weight ratio in response to nitrogen: Opinion

摘要: We analyzed data on root weight ratio from a range of experimental studies documenting plant allocation changes in response to altered nitrogen availability. Our goal was determine the degree which plasticity between roots and shoots exists search for patterns such among species. survey included 77 representing 206 cases 129 As expected, we found that decreased with increased availability majority examined, this most consistent when plants were grown individually or intraspecific competition (versus interspecific competition). Surprisingly, however, no evidence support existing hypotheses fast-growing species adapted high soil fertilities exhibit highest levels morphological plasticity, is positively associated competitive ability. Rather, average amounts similar grouped by maximum relative growth rate habitat fertility. Similar results obtained categorized life form, history itself, also had relationship Numerous difficulties are attempt pattern using independent studies, however our lead conclusion strong do not exist. discuss two reasons this: (1) costs its benefits lower than previously predicted (2) traits other more important foraging