Environmental Drivers of Trait Variation in Allium tricoccum: Towards Pluralistic, Trait-Based Stewardship

R code for ethnobiological research on wild leeks (A. triccocum) and biological trait relationship to exogenous ecological parameters. - The iconic ephemeral Allium tricoccum is an overharvested non-timber forest product (NTFP) that lacks regulation and protection, existing at the nexus of ecological, cultural, and economic spheres. In an effort to understand conservation and restoration needs while addressing the plurality of socio-cultural valuation of A. tricoccum, an assessment of habitat condition effects on biomass, allicin content in bulb tissue, and specific leaf area were examined. Traits were selected on the basis of their biological significance in the life history of A. tricoccum, as well as their ability to represent non-market values and promote conservation incentives outside of NTFP economies. Results show that overstory community has a strong influence on microclimate and resulting leek physiology. Wild leeks with greater flavor and medicinal content are found in early succession stands with slower, asynchronous, or incomplete canopy closure, while wild leeks with higher fitness and reproductive propensity are found in secondary succession forests, where irradiance and microclimate are moderated. Topography was also a considerable driver of oxidative stress and carbon allocation strategies. The results provide valuable insight into integrating culture into the context of wild leek conservation and restoration practices.

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