EGU24-20354, updated on 11 Mar 2024
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-20354
EGU General Assembly 2024
© Author(s) 2024. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Exploring sex-specific anatomical adaptations in Rhamnus alaternus L. a Mediterranean dioecious shrub: implications for resilience to climate change

Angela Balzano1, Chiara Amitrano2, Maks Merela1, Riccardo Motti2, and Veronica De Micco2
Angela Balzano et al.
  • 1University Of Ljubljana Biotechnical Faculty Department of Wood Science and Technology
  • 2University of Naples Federico II, Agricultural Science

Secondary sexual dimorphism plays an important role in shaping the response of plants to different environmental constraints, particularly in relation to energy requirements. Dioecious plants exhibit intricate sex-specific differences that influence stress tolerance mechanisms. In Mediterranean ecosystems, the challenges to stress tolerance are exacerbated by climate change-induced changes in temperature, precipitation patterns and frequency of extreme weather events. Understanding how male and female dioecious plants cope with stress is essential for the development of effective conservation strategies.

This study focuses on the investigation of secondary sexual dimorphism in the wood and leaf anatomy of a Mediterranean shrub Rhamnus alaternus L., to identify potential sex-specific responses to environmental stressors. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of wood and leaf anatomy in male and female individuals at a southern Italian Mediterranean site. Microscopy and subsequent image analysis allowed the quantification of anatomical features related to water-use efficiency, safety against embolism and photosynthetic efficiency. Parameters measured included stem vessel size and distribution, reaction wood formation, stomata characteristics, leaf tissue thickness and mesophyll density.

Our results show a coordinated sex-specific adaptation in anatomical traits that influence either the efficiency or safety of water flow and the regulation of gas-exchange. This knowledge is crucial for improving the resilience and diversity of these plant populations in the face of climate change impacts. The knowledge gained from this study will contribute to the development of targeted conservation strategies for dioecious species in Mediterranean ecosystems.

How to cite: Balzano, A., Amitrano, C., Merela, M., Motti, R., and De Micco, V.: Exploring sex-specific anatomical adaptations in Rhamnus alaternus L. a Mediterranean dioecious shrub: implications for resilience to climate change, EGU General Assembly 2024, Vienna, Austria, 14–19 Apr 2024, EGU24-20354, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu24-20354, 2024.