Variations in phytochemistry, morphology, and population structure inTrillium govanianum(Melanthiaceae)

Abstract

As habitats change, species with higher intraspecific variation have more resources to adapt. Medicinal plants of the Himalayas are increasingly threatened by climate change and other anthropogenic influences. Intraspecific variation within and among 17 populations of the high-altitude herb Trillium govanianum was studied as an indicator of adaptability. Variation in nineteen traits of population structure, morphology and phytochemistry were assessed across habitats that varied in altitude (2452-3432 m), aspect, latitude (30.1-31.7 N) and arboreal community. Morphology and population structure were conserved among populations but varied among regions. Populations in the lower altitude mixed forests of Tirthan Valley produced smaller rhizomes but larger plant densities, such that plant biomass per m2 was conserved. Phytochemistry varied among regions and populations within regions, indicating significant variation among habitats. Above-ground morphology of the species masks considerable variations in below-ground morphology and phytochemistry. The observed variations can help the species to adapt the changing environmental conditions by provoking a functional response.