On trait variability in harsh habitats.

Keywords: arid ecosystems; deserts; drylands; functional traits; limiting resources; local adaptation; plant traits EN arid ecosystems deserts drylands functional traits limiting resources local adaptation plant traits 1 4 4 08/31/23 20230801 NES 230801 Population success is an elusive term that integrates assumptions regarding traits that enable individuals to respond to local conditions with assumptions regarding the effects of these traits on characteristics of the population in which the individuals grow. Arid ecosystems, deserts, drylands, functional traits, limiting resources, local adaptation, plant traits Dryland mechanisms could widely control ecosystem functioning in a drier and warmer world. In such a case, while part of the trait variation may result from non-adaptive responses, it is highly unlikely that the major driver of plant responses, as reflected by their trait composition and variability, is an inadequate ability of individuals to respond to local habitat conditions. [Extracted from the article]