The Physiology and Adaptation of Tropical Plants

The objective of this course unit is to explore the diversity of life forms and the morphological and functional adaptations of plants living in tropical regions. Each of the major biological types will be analyzed (trees, herbs, vines, epiphytes, hemiepiphytes, etc.) in order to understand their architecture and modes of development, and to study the specific characteristics of their functioning.

A comparative analysis will attempt to define the nature of the adaptations that have enabled these plants to occupy all available niches.

Particular emphasis will be placed, from an evolutionary perspective, on the study of the biomechanical and in situ conduction properties that characterize some of them.

Another focus will be on tree ontogeny, addressing concepts of architecture related to the processes involved in the development of the large crowns of tropical trees, including root strategies. The interaction between vegetative structures, reproduction, and secondary growth will be explored in laboratory exercises using tropical plant material.

The concepts of growth and competition within a stand will be explored using simple examples that incorporate concepts of growth modeling.

Be able to define and characterize forms of plant life and their modes of development. Be able to apply the concepts and tools specific to the study of plant biomechanics. Be able to study the temporal characteristics of tree development using concepts from morphology, macroanatomy, and architecture. Be able to establish a plant sampling protocol to study the relationships between primary and secondary growth.

Comprehensive ongoing assessment: 100%