Monteverde Institute: Tropical Ecology and Conservation
Alternative Title
Condiciones del microclima dentro de las hojas enrolladas de Lepanthes helleri (Orchidaceae)
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Publication Date
May 2008
Abstract
Epiphytic orchids of the cloud forest experience wet conditions from the high input of mist, but also drying from the potentially desiccating conditions of wind and light. The ability to minimize water loss while still maintaining photosynthetic levels is pivotal in an individual’s survival. This study examined Lepanthes helleri and the role of leaf-curling as a mechanism to regulate microclimate conditions. Parameters measured included the size of the leaf and the width of its opened curl, relative humidity of the ambient environment, air and temperature inside and outside of the leaf. The relationships between the width of the leaf opening (“aperture”) and stomatal density, the percent of open stomata, and the presence of flowers, buds, or neither were tested. Air temperature and leaf height, when factored into a model testing significance, had the most impact on how open the leaf was (stepwise multiple regression; R2 adj = 0.18, P < 0.05, DF = 58 and n = 61). Specifically, as leaf height and aperture size increased, the inside temperature increased. There was a significant difference between the mean temperatures inside and outside the leaf (Paired t-test; t = 7.48, P < 0.0001, DF = 60, n = 61 for both) as well as a negative linear regression between aperture and stomatal density (F = 8.04, R2 adj = 0.12, P = 0.007, n = 52).
Resumen
Las orquídeas epífitas del bosque nuboso viven en condiciones húmedas debido a la neblina y también a las condiciones desecadas por el sol y el viento. La habilidad de reducir la pérdida de agua mientras que mantiene los niveles de fotosíntesis es lo más importante para la sobrevivencia de una planta. Esta investigacion examino a Lepanthes helleri y el papel de la hoja enrollada como un mecanismo de cambio en las condiciones del microclima.
Keywords
Orchids, Acclimitization (Plants), CIEE Spring 2008
Palabras claves
Orquídeas, Aclimatación (Plantas), CIEE Primavera 2008
Extent
8 pages
Geographic Location
Monteverde (Puntarenas, Costa Rica)
Holding Location
Monteverde Institute
Language
English; Spanish
Media Type
Articles
Format
Digital Only
Identifier
M39-00450
Type
Book
Recommended Citation
Jones, Brian C., "Microclimate conditions within the rolled leaves of Lepanthes helleri (Orchidaceae), May 2008" (2008). Monteverde Institute: Tropical Ecology and Conservation. 260.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/tropical_ecology/260
