Effects of Light Intensity on the Size Structure and Establishment of Diploids and Triploids of Disporum sessile

Abstract The effects of light intensity on population growth rates (λ) of diploid and triploid experimental populations of Disporum sessile were examined by growth experiments varying light intensity and by using a projection matrix model. λ of the diploid population was shown to have greater dependence on light intensity. This parameter under good light conditions was higher than that of the triploid population, but less than that under conditions of shade. This was due to the differences in reproductive traits of both populations. Diploids produce many small daughter plantlets and seedlings, and triploids produce a few daughter plantlets. The difference in λ between the two populations should contribute to enlargement of the habitat of D. sessile.