Variation in leaf functional traits of different-aged Haloxylon ammodendron communities, and the relationship with soil factors

In this study, we analyzed the variations in leaf functional traits of differently-aged Haloxylon ammodendron in Minqin, and further studied their relationship with soil factors. This analysis allows us to better understand the adaptation strategies of H. ammodendron to the soil environment in arid desert areas. Our results showed that: 1) Except for chlorophyll content, leaf total carbon content and leaf total phosphorus content, the leaf functional traits of different-aged H. ammodendron showed significant differences (P < 0.05). Except for leaf total potassium content and specific leaf area, which showed moderate variation, other leaf functional traits showed only weak variation. 2) The leaf functional traits of H. ammodendron were correlated; the leaf water content, leaf saturated water content and chlorophyll content could be used as the main indices of leaf functional traits of H. ammodendron with the change in time. 3) Soil moisture content, electrical conductivity and pH were the main soil factors affecting the leaf functional traits of different-aged H. ammodendron. The functional traits of H. ammodendron showed different combinations with an increase in age. Corresponding adaptive strategies to the change in soil factors were also found, which indicate that H. ammodendron leaves have strong plasticity, conducive to adaptation to the arid desert ecological environment in Minqin.