Morpho-anatomical and functional modifications in beach leaves on the top ridge of the Apennines (Central Italy)

This paper examines the morpho-anatomical modifications in leaves from beec h trees growing along the top ridge of the Apennines (Central Italy) and co mpares them to leaves from other trees growing in cooler sites and at lower altitudes. Sclerophyllous modifications were observed, as well as tannin-i mpregnated tissues. These modifications provide the leaves with a greater w ater retention capacity. The beech is an ecologically versatile species whi ch can apply different strategies of water use according to the conditions it finds itself in.