Leaflet movement of Robinia pseudoacacia in response to a changing light environment

Diurnal and nocturnal leaflet movement of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) was investigated under three light schemes: 100% natural irradiance, 50% shading, and 90% shading. Changes in leaf mid-vein angle were described by measurements of two planes: (i) beta, the angle formed by the bottom of the petiolule and its relation to the horizontal plane; and (ii) theta, the angle between the petiolule and the main leaflet vein. The two highest light regimens had a significant effect on beta. Variation in beta tends to make the leaflet more erect, thereby minimizing any negative impact of high irradiance on leaf lamina. Light-dark rhythms induced variation in theta (termed nyctinastic movement). Nyctinastic movement is important during the low light levels experienced by leaflets in early morning and late afternoon. At low light levels, the leaflet stopped nyctinastic movement and theta was fixed at an angle that may have enabled the leaf lamina to maximize light interception. After the light-dark cycle was reestablished, nyctinastic movement was restored. Taken together, our results suggest that irradiance induces variation in beta leading to diurnal leaflet movement (diaheliotropism), whereas the light-dark cycle influences theta, which results in nocturnal leaflet movement. Both angles are important for describing patterns of leaf movement in R. pseudocacia.