Ontogenetic Shifts and Light-Driven Plasticity in Functional Traits of Three Cecropia Species

This dataset contains functional trait measurements of three pioneer tree species in Costa Rica (Cecropia peltata, C. obtusifolia, C. insignis). Traits include stem allometry (height, diameter, slenderness), reproductive status, crown illumination index (CII), and leaf traits (specific leaf area, leaf thickness, leaf dry matter content, leaf area, number of leaves). Data were collected across ontogenetic stages (non-reproductive vs. reproductive individuals) and light environments to assess how size and canopy exposure shape trait variation. The dataset supports analyses of trait scaling relationships, size–structure trade-offs, and phenotypic plasticity in tropical pioneer trees.