Mendonça, Ane Marcela das Chagas Lira, Jean Marcel Sousa Melo, Nayara Cristina de  Rodrigues, Marcelo  Barbosa, João Paulo Rodrigues Alves Delfino  <br/><br/>
Phenotypic Plasticity of Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus (Gomes) Landrum Under Different Light Conditions 

<br/><br/> Publicação on-line; 43 ref.; 4 tables; 2 illus.; Summary (En) 
<br/><br/> <br/><br/>ABSTRACT<br/><br/>The heterogeneous light pattern in forest environments leads to specific morphological and<br/>physiological responses. However, anthropogenic pressures in areas such as Atlantic Forest and<br/>Cerrado are modifying the light availability, and consequently the forest community composition.<br/>The aim of this study was to investigate the plasticity of forest species Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus<br/>under full sunlight and shade conditions. P. pseudocaryophyllus showed typical shade plant<br/>phenotype, with higher net photosynthesis, transpiration, and chlorophyll a and b contents<br/>when cultivated under this condition. The decrease in net photosynthesis under full sunlight<br/>conditions is probably related to PSII photoinhibition. In addition, under full sunlight, reduced<br/>height, number of leaves, and specific leaf area was observed, while plants in shade increased<br/>these characteristics. P. pseudocaryophyllus did not show high morphological and physiological<br/>plasticity, which may be a maladaptive response. It was concluded that forest disturbances could<br/>compromise the occurrence and survival of P. pseudocaryophyllus.<br/><br/>Keywords: initial growth, RDPI, full sunlight, shade, pau-cravo. 
<br/><br/><label>Subjects--Topical Terms: </label><br/>CRESCIMENTO <br/>PIMENTA<br/>RADIAÇÃO SOLAR