Physiological comparisons of true leaves and phyllodes in Acacia mangium seedlings

We found differences between true leaves (TL) and phyllodes (Ph) during ontogeny of Acacia mangium plants as reflected in chlorophyll (Chl) and carotenoid contents, gas exchange, Chl fluorescence, and growth. The production of TL enhanced the relative growth rate of the A. mangium seedlings, allowing the plants to accumulate enough dry biomass for later growth, while the production of thicker Ph in the later growth stage of A. mangium could help plants to cope with higher irradiance in their natural growth conditions.