Stem biomechanics, strength of attachment, and developmental plasticity of vines and lianas

This chapter compares some of the growth strategies associated with different attachment and stem mechanics. It investigates some of the functional and developmentally variable traits that contribute to their ecological success. The chapter explores how different climbing plants attach mechanically to their supports, and discusses the forces generated by leaf friction, hooks, branches, tendrils, roots, and twining stems. It further provides quantitative comparisons of the kinds of forces these structures can withstand, and the reliability of their connection with the host. The chapter discusses how attachment and adaptive variations of mechanical properties contribute to profound developmental plasticity in vines and lianas. Changes in developmental timing among vines and lianas – between juvenile self-supporting and mature non-self-supporting traits – are undoubtedly linked to other functional traits and potential trade-offs involving water provisioning, leaf surface area, photosynthesis, and growth rate.

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