Leaf development dynamics of Parkinsonia aculeata L., Sp. Pl. under high temperature, drought and salinity conditions in Sonoran semi-desert

ABSTRACT

The Sonoran semi-desert with its stressful conditions of high temperature, salinity and drought affect the plant physiological performance and productivity. In this region, a study was carried out with the aim of evaluating the dynamics of leaf development, NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), leaf senescence time and primary productivity of Parkinsonia aculeata L. Sp. Pl. in three sites there where high temperatures conditions prevail. It was found that heat does not affect the development dynamics nor leaves length, however, drought does, reducing their development rate to 0.2 cm day^-1. The NDVI was more affected by drought condition, with values lower than 0.79. Salinity caused leaves senescence at 67 days. Parkinsonia aculeata L. Sp. Pl. presented higher primary productivity under heat condition, generating 116 g m^-2 month^-1.

Keywords
Leaf length; Abiotic stress; Litter; Palo verde