Abstract
Physiological, cytological, and anatomical studies were carried out on the tolerance of trees to submergence in blackwater and whitewater inundation forests, locally called Igapó and Várzea, respectively. For this
purpose, the leaves of several abundant tree species were investigated to determine their functional capability
after submersion during the inundation phase. Their performance was compared with that of genetically
identical leaves on the same branch that had sprouted after the flood water had receded.
The studies showed that, in spite of submersion for up to several months and sometimes even in spite of
the fact that they were still partially under water, these leaves had full functional capability at the beginning
of the terrestrial phase, as determined by examination under the light and scanning electron microscope, the
water potential, and the CO2 exchange.
