GENECOLOGICAL DIFFERENTIATION OF LEAF MORPHOLOGY IN GERANIUM SANGUINEUM L.

Abstract

Genecological differentiation of leaf dissection and size in European samples of Geranium sanguineum L. is considered against a background of the ecological behaviour of this species. The differentiation is analysed using Variance Analysis and shown to be closely correlated with a community classification based on eco‐geographical indicator species; leaf dissection is correlated with the ‘continentality’ and leaf size with the ‘openness’ of the original community. The variation in both cases is ecoclinal. The importance of morphological differentiation to studies of adaptation is discussed in the light of current knowledge. Copyright © 1969, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved