Microevolution of the photosynthetic temperature optimum in relation to the elevational complex gradient

Abstract

Balsam fir seedlings were grown under uniform conditions from seed collected along an elevational gradient in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Photosynthetic temperature optimum of the seedlings decreased with increasing elevation of the seed source. The change in temperature optimum with elevation was similar to the adiabatic lapse rate, suggesting a precise adaptation to temperature through natural selection.

Citation

Fryer, John H.; Ledig, F. Thomas. 1972. Microevolution of the photosynthetic temperature optimum in relation to the elevational complex gradient. Canadian Journal of Botany, Vol. 50: 1231-1235