Abstract
Epiphytism is predicated on the possession of a disparate array of adaptive features involving many aspects of the plant body and all phases of the life cycle. Among the most basic of these adaptations are those designed to enhance salt procurement and to increase the efficiency of neral use. Mineral procurement and nutrient economy in the Bromeliaceae and the Orchidaceae are accomplished in the forest canopy by at least three strategies, each differing from one or both of the others in terms of the organs of absorption involved, the relative quantities of certain mineral nutrients accumulated, and the sources and quality of the mineral supply. Neither atmospheric bromeliads nor xerophytic orchid epiphytes have been able to modify those aspects of their form and function which increase water and nutrient economy, without also accepting a reduced performance for certain other vital functions such as sexual reproduction and photosynthesis. The resultant slow rates of growth, small stature, and lowered repro...
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