Functional attributes of two Croton species in different successional stages of tropical dry forest: effects on herbivory and fluctuating asymmetry patterns

Abstract

Tropical dry forests are among the most threatened ecosystems in the world. After habitat perturbation occurs, the habitat recovers naturally through ecological succession. This succession can modify functional attributes of plants, which in turn, can affect herbivorous insects’ performance. We analyzed morphological, functional, and chemical traits associated with herbivory patterns in Croton roxanae and C. suberosus, that occur in mature and secondary forests in the tropical dry forest of Chamela, Jalisco. Leaf area and leaf thickness were higher in secondary forest, while leaf density and fresh leaf mass were higher in mature forest. Dry leaf mass, specific leaf area, chlorophyll content, and water content showed variation between species in both forest conditions. The concentration of secondary metabolites showed variation between species and forest conditions. Croton roxanae showed higher herbivory in mature forest, and C. suberosus did not show differences between the two conditions. Leaves in secondary forest were slightly longer and broader than leaves in mature forest. Croton species showed higher fluctuating asymmetry in secondary forest. Herbivory was not associated with levels of fluctuating asymmetry levels in both Croton species. Our results suggest that plant attributes are influenced by forest condition, which in turn, indirectly affect the attack of herbivores.