Mediterranean Plants II

A special issue of Plants (ISSN 2223-7747). This special issue belongs to the section "Plant Ecology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2024) | Viewed by 13080

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Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, 15784 Athens, Greece
Interests: plant ecophysiology and physiology; Mediterranean plants; plant–water relations; plant response to abiotic stress; biodiversity; Flora Graeca; biomimetics; cultural botany and living archives
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Laboratory of Rangeland Ecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, P.O. Box 286, 54 124 Thessaloniki, Greece
Interests: plant ecology and evolution; plant–water relations; plant crown architecture and hydraulic architecture; crown architecture under biotic and/or abiotic stress; ecophysiology of water use efficiency; succession and productivity of rangeland; physiological mechanisms of adaptation and survival of forage species under biotic or abiotic stress
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Department of Agriculture Crop Production and Rural Environment, University of Thessaly, 382 21 Volos, Greece
Interests: effects of abiotic stress factors on plant physiology and production
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Plants grown and exposed to the Mediterranean climate with a marked seasonality, typified by the alternation of a cold and wet period with a hot and dry period, are a source of information for the functioning and featuring of the seasonality in Mediterranean ecosystems. In addition, Mediterranean plants have been presented as vehicles for expressing historical knowledge and environmental attributes, and scientific data have given us important insights into plant growth, structure and function. Much remains to be discovered and further work is required to reveal the natural heritage of Mediterranean plants. With the current environmental and social threats mainly posed by an expanding human population, the essential importance of Mediterranean plants will once again be appreciated. This Special Issue of Plants will highlight the function, structure, diversity, biomimicry, biogeography, history, heritage and conservation of Mediterranean plants, as well as their interactions with the abiotic and biotic environment.

Prof. Dr. Sophia Rhizopoulou
Prof. Dr. Maria Karatassiou
Prof. Dr. Efi Levizou
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • mediterranean plants and ecosystems
  • plant physiology, morphology, anatomy, taxonomy, ecology and molecular biology
  • plant evolutionary and conservation biology
  • environmental plant physiology
  • flora
  • vegetation
  • biogeography
  • natural products
  • historical and cultural botany

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Published Papers (11 papers)

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21 pages, 5136 KiB  
Article
Transpiration Dynamics of Esparto Grass (Macrochloa tenacissima (L.) Kunth) in a Semi-Arid Mediterranean Climate: Unraveling the Impacts of Pine Competition
by Iván Pérez-Anta, Eva Rubio, Francisco Ramón López-Serrano, Diego Garcés, Manuela Andrés-Abellán, Marta Picazo, Wafa Chebbi, Rocío Arquero and Francisco Antonio García-Morote
Plants 2024, 13(5), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13050661 - 27 Feb 2024
Viewed by 554
Abstract
Macrochloa tenacissima (M. tenacissima), or esparto, is a perennial tussock grass that coexists with Pinus halepensis (P. halepensis) in semi-arid Mediterranean woodlands. This research was carried out to explore diurnal transpiration at leaf level in esparto grass under different levels [...] Read more.
Macrochloa tenacissima (M. tenacissima), or esparto, is a perennial tussock grass that coexists with Pinus halepensis (P. halepensis) in semi-arid Mediterranean woodlands. This research was carried out to explore diurnal transpiration at leaf level in esparto grass under different levels of pine–esparto competition and in contrasting environmental soil water conditions. The measurement period spanned from the summer of 2020 to the spring of 2021. The relationship between transpiration and competition was conducted in open and closed P. halepensis stands, and the type of leaf (green, senescent) and the maturity of the esparto grass were taken into account. We observed a higher control of transpiration in green leaves, and the correlations between the transpiration and pine competition were noted exclusively in this type of leaf. Our results demonstrated a significant impact of pine competitors (closed stands) on the transpiration of esparto grass, particularly during seasons characterized by scenarios of high water demand: the summer drought period and the commencement of the growing and flowering period (spring). Furthermore, our findings revealed a greater response to transpiration in mature bushes compared to young ones under severe water stress, indicating a higher adaptation to drought by esparto as it ages. Although our results confirmed that PAR increased transpiration in all seasons and in both stands, which is attributable to the heliophilia of esparto grass, the site effects on transpiration could also be attributable to competition for water, especially during periods of drought. These results may have important implications for the dynamics and management of these semi-arid mixed woodlands, as well as the planning of reforestation programs aimed at restoring esparto grass formations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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14 pages, 2095 KiB  
Article
Acclimation of the Grapevine Vitis vinifera L. cv. Assyrtiko to Water Deficit: Coordination of Structural and Functional Leaf Traits and the Dynamic of Calcium Oxalate Crystals
by Foteini Kolyva, Dimosthenis Nikolopoulos, Panagiota Bresta, Georgios Liakopoulos, George Karabourniotis and Sophia Rhizopoulou
Plants 2023, 12(23), 3992; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12233992 - 27 Nov 2023
Viewed by 752
Abstract
Grapevine leaves contain abundant CaOx crystals located either within the mesophyll in the form of raphides, or in the bundle sheaths as druses. CaOx crystals function as internal carbon pools providing CO2 for a baseline level of photosynthesis, named “alarm [...] Read more.
Grapevine leaves contain abundant CaOx crystals located either within the mesophyll in the form of raphides, or in the bundle sheaths as druses. CaOx crystals function as internal carbon pools providing CO2 for a baseline level of photosynthesis, named “alarm photosynthesis”, despite closed stomata; thus, preventing the photoinhibition and the oxidative risk due to carbon starvation under adverse conditions. Structural and functional leaf traits of acclimated grapevine plants (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Assyrtiko) were investigated in response to water availability, in order to evaluate the dynamic functionality of CaOx. Leaf water potential, leaf area, leaf mass per area, stomatal properties, gas exchange parameters and performance index (PI) were decreased in leaves of vines acclimated to water deficit in comparison to the leaves of well-irrigated vines, although the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters showed that the operational efficiency of the photosystem II (PSII) photochemistry (Fv/Fm) did not change, indicating that the photosynthetic apparatus was not subjected to water stress. During the afternoon, more than half of the morning’s existing druses disappeared in the drought-acclimated leaves. Also, the raphides’ area of the drought-acclimated leaves was reduced more than that of the well-watered leaves. The substantial decomposition of druses under water deficit conditions compared to that of the raphides may have important implications for the maintenance of their different though overlapping roles. According to the results, it seems likely that, under water deficit conditions, a mechanism of “alarm photosynthesis” provides an additional tolerance trait in the leaves of Vitis vinifera cv. Assyrtiko; hence, leaf structure relates to function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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18 pages, 2915 KiB  
Article
Aridity Gradients Shape Intraspecific Variability of Morphological Traits in Native Ceratonia siliqua L. of Morocco
by Jalal Kassout, Younes Hmimsa, Salama El Fatehi, Khalil Kadaoui, Mhammad Houssni, Soufian Chakkour, Abdelouahab Sahli, Mohamad Ali El Chami, David Ariza-Mateos, Guillermo Palacios-Rodríguez, Rafael M. Navarro-Cerrillo and Mohamed Ater
Plants 2023, 12(19), 3447; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12193447 - 30 Sep 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 865
Abstract
The carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a significant fruit tree in the Mediterranean region with cultural, biological, and ecological importance. Despite its importance, intraspecific trait variability (ITV) in carob trees has been largely overlooked in previous studies. Understanding ITV and its [...] Read more.
The carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a significant fruit tree in the Mediterranean region with cultural, biological, and ecological importance. Despite its importance, intraspecific trait variability (ITV) in carob trees has been largely overlooked in previous studies. Understanding ITV and its relationship with environmental conditions is crucial for conservation and breeding programs. In this study, we investigated the variability of carob pod and seed-related traits across different ecological scales in 25 studied populations in Morocco. Significant differences in morphological traits were observed between carob populations at various ecological levels, and pod-related traits exhibited greater variability than seed traits. Correlation analysis revealed strong associations between carob morphological traits and environmental conditions, with altitude and aridity index playing an influential role. The aridity gradient was strongly related to changes in pod size, seed number, and size, as well as seed yield. Our findings highlight an important ITV reaching 45% at the intra-population level, 36.5% at the inter-geographic level, and 30% at the inter-population level. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights into the ecology and adaptation of carob trees, emphasizing the importance of considering intraspecific variability when studying this remarkable species. This knowledge is critical for addressing the challenges posed by climate change and human activities on the long-term survival and ecological functioning of carob populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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16 pages, 1297 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Differences in Leaf Photoprotective Potential between Adults and Juveniles of Two Mediterranean Perennials with Distinct Growth Forms: A Comparative Field Study
by Christos Chondrogiannis, Kassiani Kotsi, George Grammatikopoulos and Yiola Petropoulou
Plants 2023, 12(17), 3110; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12173110 - 30 Aug 2023
Viewed by 687
Abstract
The photosynthetic differences between adult and juvenile Mediterranean plants were previously studied under field conditions, yet the corresponding differentiation of their photoprotective efficiency has not been sufficiently investigated. The present study aims to examine possible differences in the photoprotective potential between adults and [...] Read more.
The photosynthetic differences between adult and juvenile Mediterranean plants were previously studied under field conditions, yet the corresponding differentiation of their photoprotective efficiency has not been sufficiently investigated. The present study aims to examine possible differences in the photoprotective potential between adults and juveniles of two native Mediterranean plants with distinct growth forms. Thus, the seasonal variations in individual carotenoids, electron transport rate (ETR), and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) were monitored in fully exposed mature leaves from adults and juveniles of the winter deciduous tree Cercis siliquastrum L. and the evergreen sclerophyllous shrub Nerium oleander L. All plants were grown under apparently similar field conditions. In both species, juveniles displayed substantially lower ETR and increased NPQ values than adults in spring, with the differences intensifying during summer drought and diminishing in autumn. Concomitantly, juveniles showed significantly higher chlorophyll-based total carotenoids in spring and summer mainly due to the higher investment in xanthophyll cycle components (VAZ), in combination with an increased mid-day de-epoxidation state (DEPS) and partial retention of zeaxanthin in the dark. In N. oleander, although ETR was lower in juveniles during winter, NPQ was extremely low in both ages. In conclusion, juveniles exhibit enhanced photoprotection potential, especially in the summer, due to their reduced photochemical capacity. The photosynthetic superiority of adults during the favorable spring period may be attributed to the needs of the co-existing reproductive effort. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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13 pages, 1095 KiB  
Article
Near-Zero Temperatures Arrest Movement of the Diaheliotropic Malva sylvestris
by Elena Arvaniti, Efi Levizou and Aris Kyparissis
Plants 2023, 12(13), 2484; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12132484 - 29 Jun 2023
Viewed by 781
Abstract
In the present study, the diaheliotropic leaf movement pattern of Malva sylvestris in relation to the impact of low temperature is presented. Seasonal measurements of movement characteristics along with important aspects of plant function, such as chlorophyll content, water potential, PSII photochemistry, and [...] Read more.
In the present study, the diaheliotropic leaf movement pattern of Malva sylvestris in relation to the impact of low temperature is presented. Seasonal measurements of movement characteristics along with important aspects of plant function, such as chlorophyll content, water potential, PSII photochemistry, and phenological parameters were performed on plants in their natural environment. During the study period, low winter temperatures and a 10-day freezing event gave insights into the plant’s response to harsh environmental conditions and the effect of the latter on leaf movement profile. Plant growth was significantly inhibited during low-temperature periods (leaf shedding) and the photosynthetic performance was seriously depressed, as judged by in vivo chlorophyll a fluorescence. Additionally, the diaheliotropic leaf movement pattern was arrested. Temperature rise in March triggered new leaf burst and expansion, enhancement of the photosynthetic performance, and the recovery of the diaheliotropic movement. The daily and seasonal profiles of the water potential were synergistically shaped by leaf movement and climatic conditions. We conclude that diaheliotropism of M. sylvestris is a dynamic process that coordinates with the prevailing temperatures in ecosystems like the studied one, reaching a full arrest under near-zero temperatures to protect the photosynthetic apparatus from over-excitation and prevent photoinhibition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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14 pages, 2219 KiB  
Article
Genome Size Variation across a Cypriot Fabeae Tribe Germplasm Collection
by Iliana Charalambous, Nektaria Ioannou, Angelos C. Kyratzis, Dimitrios Kourtellarides, Marianna Hagidimitriou and Nikolaos Nikoloudakis
Plants 2023, 12(7), 1469; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12071469 - 27 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1239
Abstract
DNA content is an important trait linked to the evolutionary routes of taxa and often connected to speciation. In the present study, we studied C-values variation across the Cypriot Fabeae gene pool. Several hundred plants (Vicia spp., Lens spp., Pisum spp.) were [...] Read more.
DNA content is an important trait linked to the evolutionary routes of taxa and often connected to speciation. In the present study, we studied C-values variation across the Cypriot Fabeae gene pool. Several hundred plants (Vicia spp., Lens spp., Pisum spp.) were sampled across Cyprus. Accurate estimates were established by flow cytometry and propidium iodine staining for 155 discrete populations/accessions. A ten-fold variation was detected across lineages with 1C DNA content varying from 1.584 pg for V. cretica (ARI02420) to 13.983 pg for V. faba (ARI00187). In general, flow cytometry was precise for the characterization of species, even though there were instances of genome overlapping across taxa. Most analyses in the current work refer to species that have not been characterized before by flow cytometry (or any other DNA content estimation method). Still, a correlation to C-values previously reported in Kew Plant DNA C-values database was attempted. A high degree of correlation except for V. dalmatica was established. The evaluation of genome size trait in relation with the Fabeae phylogeny, revealed that Pisum and Lens genera were rather homogenous, but an astonishing fluctuation was shown for Vicia spp. Moreover, it was established that genome up- or down-scaling was not directly linked to speciation drivers. The genomic size measurements presented here could deliver extra quality control for the identification and characterization of taxa in germplasm collections, particularly in cases where species share morphological characters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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17 pages, 2597 KiB  
Article
Plant Functional Dispersion, Vulnerability and Originality Increase Arthropod Functions from a Protected Mountain Mediterranean Area in Spring
by Bruno Calheiros-Nogueira, Carlos Aguiar and María Villa
Plants 2023, 12(4), 889; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12040889 - 16 Feb 2023
Viewed by 1405
Abstract
Plant diversity often contributes to the shape of arthropod communities, which in turn supply important ecosystem services. However, the current biodiversity loss scenario, particularly worrying for arthropods, constitutes a threat for sustainability. From a trait-based ecology approach, our goal was to evaluate the [...] Read more.
Plant diversity often contributes to the shape of arthropod communities, which in turn supply important ecosystem services. However, the current biodiversity loss scenario, particularly worrying for arthropods, constitutes a threat for sustainability. From a trait-based ecology approach, our goal was to evaluate the bottom-up relationships to obtain a better understanding of the conservation of the arthropod function within the ecosystem. Specifically, we aim: (i) to describe the plant taxonomic and functional diversity in spring within relevant habitats of a natural protected area from the Mediterranean basin; and (ii) to evaluate the response of the arthropod functional community to plants. Plants and arthropods were sampled and identified, taxonomic and functional indices calculated, and the plant–arthropod relationships analyzed. Generally, oak forests and scrublands showed a higher plant functional diversity while the plant taxonomic richness was higher in grasslands and chestnut orchards. The abundance of arthropod functional groups increased with the plant taxonomic diversity, functional dispersion, vulnerability and originality, suggesting that single traits (e.g., flower shape or color) may be more relevant for the arthropod function. Results indicate the functional vulnerability of seminatural habitats, the relevance of grasslands and chestnut orchards for arthropod functions and pave the way for further studies about plant–arthropod interactions from a trait-based ecology approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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23 pages, 18025 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Some Cichorium Taxa Grown under Mediterranean Climate Using Morphological Traits and Molecular Markers
by Ahmed M. El-Taher, Hala A. Elzilal, Hany S. Abd El-Raouf, Emad Mady, Khalid S. Alshallash, Rasha M. Alnefaie, Ehab M. B. Mahdy, Osama G. Ragab, Elhassan A. Emam, Ibrahim A. Alaraidh, Timothy O. Randhir and Mohamed F. M. Ibrahim
Plants 2023, 12(2), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12020388 - 13 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1869
Abstract
The verification of taxonomic identities is of the highest significance in the field of biological study and categorization. Morpho-molecular characterization can clarify uncertainties in distinguishing between taxonomic groups. In this study, we characterized five local taxa of the genus Cichorium using morphological and [...] Read more.
The verification of taxonomic identities is of the highest significance in the field of biological study and categorization. Morpho-molecular characterization can clarify uncertainties in distinguishing between taxonomic groups. In this study, we characterized five local taxa of the genus Cichorium using morphological and molecular markers for taxonomic authentication and probably future genetic improvement. The five Cichorium taxa grown under the Mediterranean climate using morphological traits and molecular markers showed variations. The examined taxa showed a widespread range of variations in leaf characteristics, i.e., shape, type, texture, margin, and apex and cypsela characteristics i.e., shape, color, and surface pattern. The phylogenetic tree categorized the Cichorium intybus var. intybus and C. intybus var. foliosum in a single group, whereas C. endivia var. endivia was grouped separately. However, C. endivia var. crispum and C. endivia subsp. pumilum were classified as a cluster. The recorded variance between classes using the molecular markers SCoT, ISSR, and RAPD was documented at 34.43%, 36.62%, and 40.34%, respectively. Authentication using molecular tools proved the usefulness of a dichotomous indented key, as revealed by morphological identification. The integrated methodology using morphological and molecular assessment could support improved verification and authentication of the various taxa of chicory. It seems likely that the Egyptian chicory belongs to C. endivia subsp. pumilum. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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16 pages, 3527 KiB  
Article
Molecular Identification of Zantedeschia Culture with Determination of Its Morphometric and Metabolic Activities for Mediterranean Acclimatization
by Eman Tawfik, Mohamed Fathy Ahmed, Doha A. Albalawi, Bandar S. Aljuaid, Doaa Bahaa Eldin Darwish, Samy F. Mahmoud, Karim M. Hassan, Mohamed F. M. Ibrahim and Ashraf Bakry Abdel Razik
Plants 2022, 11(17), 2311; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11172311 - 03 Sep 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1820
Abstract
Calla lily (Zantedeschia albomaculata (Hook.) Baill.) is an herbaceous or semi-evergreen perennial grown from rhizomes. It is commonly named “Spotted Arum”. Ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) are found in all known organisms and are known for being functionally equivalent in all of them. A [...] Read more.
Calla lily (Zantedeschia albomaculata (Hook.) Baill.) is an herbaceous or semi-evergreen perennial grown from rhizomes. It is commonly named “Spotted Arum”. Ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) are found in all known organisms and are known for being functionally equivalent in all of them. A completely new in vitro culture protocol was applied to Z. albomaculata with two hormones, 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and kinetin, to obtain full growth and multiplication. Due to their highly conserved sequences, the analysis of small-subunit rRNAs (16S–18S rRNAs) can provide precise statistical evaluation of a wide variety of phylogenetic connections. As a result, the plant’s 18S rRNA gene allowed for identification and partial sequencing. Also, the traditional floral method and the novel application technique for identification were applied to Z. albomaculata. In this paper we systemically describe the structural strategies of the plant’s adaptation to the surroundings at the morphological, physiological, and anatomical scale. Most the essential oils and fatty acids found in Z. albomaculata are omega fatty acids, octadecenoic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid. All these fatty acids have industrial, medicinal, and pharmaceutical applications. The significant findings are the spadix sheathing leaves, and the precipitation of raphides calcium oxalate. The mitotic index showing the division activity was recorded, and it was 17.4%. The antimicrobial activity of Z. albomaculata ethanol extract was performed via the well diffusion method. This extract has shown high activity against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, compared to its lower activity against Bacillus cereus. By defining these characteristics and in vitro culture conditions, we will be able to acclimatize the plant in greenhouses, and then transfer it to the open field. The findings of this work identified the general characteristics of Zantedeschia albomaculata as an ornamental and medicinal plant in order to acclimatize this plant for cultivation in the Mediterranean climate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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11 pages, 2802 KiB  
Brief Report
Unraveling Seasonal Allocation of Soluble Sugars, Starch and Proline in Sternbergia lutea
by John Pouris, Evgenia Tampiziva and Sophia Rhizopoulou
Plants 2023, 12(17), 3043; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12173043 - 24 Aug 2023
Viewed by 678
Abstract
This study focuses on Sternbergia lutea (L.) Ker Gawl. ex Spreng., a bulbous, perennial, autumnal flowering geophyte mainly distributed around the Mediterranean Basin. The seasonal content of total sugars, starch and proline in above- and below-ground plant parts in this study, which has [...] Read more.
This study focuses on Sternbergia lutea (L.) Ker Gawl. ex Spreng., a bulbous, perennial, autumnal flowering geophyte mainly distributed around the Mediterranean Basin. The seasonal content of total sugars, starch and proline in above- and below-ground plant parts in this study, which has hitherto not been the subject of a published study. Geophytes possess underground storage organs that support sprouting, leaf growth and flowering. Furthermore, their buds remain protected below the soil surface during periods of dormancy. Understanding the fluctuation of these compounds in S. lutea contributes to our knowledge of its adaptation to the Mediterranean ecosystem. It seems likely that monthly fluctuations in proline accumulation, sugar and starch content in both above- and below-ground tissues of S. lutea correspond to the distinct seasonality of the Mediterranean ecosystem. Elevated starch content was investigated in the bulbs, while lower starch content was estimated in the leaves. Substantial values of soluble sugar content have been detected in bulbs and leaves. Additionally, elevated sugar content was detected in the yellow petals of S. lutea in October. Pronounced proline accumulation was detected in the leaves and bulbs of S. lutea during its active and dormant phase, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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13 pages, 2627 KiB  
Brief Report
Comparison of Pericarp Functional Traits in Capparis spinosa from Coastal and Inland Mediterranean Habitats
by Savvas Christodoulou, Chrysanthi Chimona and Sophia Rhizopoulou
Plants 2022, 11(22), 3085; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223085 - 14 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1411
Abstract
The caper (Capparis spinosa L.) is a winter deciduous, perennial plant that grows and completes its life cycle entirely during the dry season in the Mediterranean region. Mature caper fruits and their pericarp, collected from the wild shrubs of the Capparis spinosa [...] Read more.
The caper (Capparis spinosa L.) is a winter deciduous, perennial plant that grows and completes its life cycle entirely during the dry season in the Mediterranean region. Mature caper fruits and their pericarp, collected from the wild shrubs of the Capparis spinosa grown in the inland and coastal sites of Greece during summer, have been studied in order to improve and complete our knowledge of the successful establishment of the C. spinosa in Mediterranean ecosystems. Caper fruits possess substantial nutritional, medicinal and ecological properties that vary according to the developmental stage, agroclimatic and geographical parameters; however, the fruit pericarp and pedicel, unlike the other aboveground plant parts of the caper, have not hitherto been studied. The higher sugar and starch content in the pericarps and fruit pedicels harvested from wild caper plants grown in coastal habitats was investigated in comparison with those from inland habitats, while the higher proline and nitrogen content in pericarps and fruit pedicels harvested from wild caper plants grown in inland habitats was investigated in comparison with those from coastal habitats. The PCA, based on the considered functional traits underlying the constitutional aspects, reveals groupings of fruit pericarp specimens of the C. spinosa collected from coastal and inland habitats that are grounds for adaptive variation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mediterranean Plants II)
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