Leaf damage and functional traits in the tree diversity experiment BrazilDry in 2024

Here, we investigated the effects of tree species richness, community-level facilitation potential, and leaf functional traits on herbivory induced leaf damage in the semi-arid tropical Caatinga forest of Brazil in a tree diversity experiment (BrazilDry). Along gradients of tree species richness and facilitation potential, we quantified leaf herbivory and measured key leaf traits at the individual level, including specific leaf area (SLA), leaf dry matter content (LDMC), and leaf greenness.