Comparison of ecophysiological and leaf anatomical traits of native and invasive plant species

Abstract Background To address the lack of evidence supporting invasion by three invasive plant species ( Imperata cylindrica, Lantana camara, and Chromolaena odorata ) in tropical ecosystems, we compared ecophysiological leaf anatomical traits these alien with those native to Sempu Island, Indonesia. Data on four were obtained from TRY Plant Trait Database, measured using transverse sections. Results Two including specific area (SLA) seed dry weight showed significant association Island Nature Reserve. Invasive higher SLA lower than non-invasive species. Moreover, superior sclerenchymatous tissue thickness, vascular bundle area, chlorophyll content, sheath area. Principal component analysis (PCA) that strongly influenced cumulative variances (100% grass 88.92% shrubs), where I. cylindrica C. outperformed traits. Conclusions These data suggest studied are important for invasiveness since influence light capture, growth, reproduction while affect herbivory, photosynthetic assimilate transport, activity.