Ecophysiology of annual legumes

We review and briefly analyse some of the main ecophysiologica1 attributes found in annual legumes in evolutionary and ecological response to the environmental factors affecting their development, reproduction and and survival in Mediterraean Type Ecosystems. We also give some examples of inter-and intraspecific differences that need to be talcen into account when introducing or disseminating annual legumes for pasture improvement, rehabilitation efforts, erosion control and/or long term soil restoration programmes.

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