Resource allocation in young plants of two perennial species of Plantago

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Abstract
Growth patterns and biomass allocation to component plant parts in Plantago major and P. rugelii were compared under greenhouse conditions. Within 3 months of germination individuals of P. major were larger and had devoted more dry weight to seed and production of ramets than those of P. rugelii regardless of the number and kind of neighbours. No significant differences in percent resource allocation to roots, caudex, leaves, and spikes were observed between plants of P. major subjected to increased interference, although the actual biomass and number of leaves and spikes were reduced. Mean reproductive (spike) allocation in P. major was about 21%. Although the root biomass within a treatment was similar for the two species, the percent allocation to roots in P. rugelii was two and one-half times greater. Growth of P. major was depressed more by intraspecific neighbours and of P. rugelii by interspecific neighbours. These perennial herbs exhibit disparate allocation patterns as young plants that suggest adaptations to different temporary environments. Plantago major, with its early and sustained diversion of biomass to seed production, is distinctly adapted to exploitation of frequently disturbed sites, while P. rugelii, because of its more extensive root allocation and delayed seed production, seems better adapted to less frequent disturbance.