Does where you live influence what you are made of? Spatial correlates of chemical traits across commonly occurring boreal plants

摘要: Abstract Context Spatially explicit drivers of foliar chemical traits link plants to ecosystem processes reveal landscape functionality. Specifically, elemental, stoichiometric, and phytochemical (ESP) compositions represent key indicator traits. Objectives Here, we investigate the spatial ESP at species level across trait for five commonly occurring boreal forest understory plants. Methods On island Newfoundland, Canada, collected material from four chronosequenced grids. Using response variables elemental (C, N, P, percent quantity), stoichiometric (C:N, C:P, N:P), (terpenoids) composition, tested multiple competing hypotheses using predictors land cover (e.g., coniferous, deciduous, mixedwood), productivity enhanced vegetation index), biotic stand age/height, canopy closure) abiotic elevation, aspect, slope) factors. Results We found evidence support relationships most (mean R2 = 0.22, max 0.65). Spatial variation in quantity C, P were related along with factors 2 5 focal species. Notably, sesquiterpene between different Similarly, terpenoid a combination 0.26). Conclusions Spatial-trait mainly occur level, some commonalities level. By linking predictors, can map plant composition patterns that influence landscape-scale processes.