Authors: Charles Clarke Jonathan A Moran
Publish Date: 2015/10/21
Volume: 403, Issue: 1-2, Pages: 37-51
Abstract
Using recent studies of the effects of climate soil type and vicariance we review patterns of diversity and endemism in Nepenthes First we consider how climate influences the geographical range of the genus and diversity of prey trapping mechanisms Second we examine edaphic influences specifically the relationship between limestone and ultramafic soils and the obligate edaphic endemic Nepenthes that inhabit them Third we examine the role of vicariance with regards to the patchy distribution of suitable habitats throughout Southeast Asia and the passive dispersal mechanism of Nepenthes seedsClimate is the principal determinant of variation in pitcher functional traits and in perhumid environments may drive the evolution of alternative nutrient sequestration strategies Although little is known about the ecophysiological relationships between soil type and obligate edaphic Nepenthes ultramafic and limestone substrates may strongly influence vegetation physiognomy creating a diversity of environmental niches that are exploited by specialized Nepenthes species Finally the complex geology and geography of the Malay Archipelago drives diversification through vicariance
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