Trait differentiation between native and introduced populations of the invasive plant Sonchus oleraceus L. (Asteraceae)

摘要: There is growing evidence that rapid adaptation to novel environments drives successful establishment and spread of invasive plant species. However, the mechanisms driving trait adaptation, such as selection pressure from climate niche envelopes, remain poorly tested at global scales. In this study, we investigated differences in 20 traits (relating growth, resource acquisition, reproduction, phenology defence) amongst 14 populations herbaceous Sonchus oleraceus L. (Asteraceae) across its native (Europe North Africa) introduced (Australia New Zealand) ranges. We compared grown under standard glasshouse conditions. Introduced S. plants seemed outperform plants, i.e. possessing higher leaf stem dry matter content, greater number leaves were taller first flowering stage. Although produced fewer seeds, they had a germination rate than plants. found strong for along temperature precipitation gradients several (e.g. shoot height, biomass, contents increased with minimum temperatures, while decreased annual precipitations temperatures), which suggests similar selective forces shape both invad