Title : Adaptive strategies of aristida L. Species across ecological zones of Pakistan: linking soil characteristics with morphological and physiological traits
Abstract:
In Pakistan, the grass genus Aristida (Family Poaceae) is studied for its physiological traits, ecological distribution, and adaptive strategies across diverse environments. This study investigates four species—Aristida adscensionis, A. cyanantha, A. funiculata, and A. mutabilis—to assess their morphological, anatomical, and physiological adaptations to various environmental conditions. Field surveys and laboratory tests revealed significant variations in soil characteristics, such as pH, electrical conductivity, and nutrient content, across different populations. Morphological differences, including plant height, leaf area, and root and shoot biomass, reflect adaptive strategies to local conditions. Anatomical analysis of root and stem structure provided insights into adaptations for nutrient and water uptake. Physiological assessments indicated that populations in stress-prone areas exhibited higher levels of sugars, antioxidant enzymes, and soluble proteins, suggesting enhanced stress tolerance mechanisms. The Nathia-gali (NG) population of A. mutabilis showed elevated concentrations of stress-response components, enabling it to survive extreme conditions. Populations from Lawat (LW) and Sardari (SR) exhibited strong root systems and higher biomass. Principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed distinct clustering of species based on their morphological and physiological traits. These results highlight the exceptional ecological adaptability of Aristida species, emphasizing their role in ecological studies and potential applications in agriculture and ecosystem management.In Pakistan, the grass genus Aristida (Family Poaceae) is studied for its physiological traits, ecological distribution, and adaptive strategies across diverse environments. This study investigates four species—Aristida adscensionis, A. cyanantha, A. funiculata, and A. mutabilis—to assess their morphological, anatomical, and physiological adaptations to various environmental conditions. Field surveys and laboratory tests revealed significant variations in soil characteristics, such as pH, electrical conductivity, and nutrient content, across different populations. Morphological differences, including plant height, leaf area, and root and shoot biomass, reflect adaptive strategies to local conditions. Anatomical analysis of root and stem structure provided insights into adaptations for nutrient and water uptake. Physiological assessments indicated that populations in stress-prone areas exhibited higher levels of sugars, antioxidant enzymes, and soluble proteins, suggesting enhanced stress tolerance mechanisms. The Nathia-gali (NG) population of A. mutabilis showed elevated concentrations of stress-response components, enabling it to survive extreme conditions. Populations from Lawat (LW) and Sardari (SR) exhibited strong root systems and higher biomass. Principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed distinct clustering of species based on their morphological and physiological traits. These results highlight the exceptional ecological adaptability of Aristida species, emphasizing their role in ecological studies and potential applications in agriculture and ecosystem management.
