Abstract:Plant survival in mountain environments is determined by both macro- and micro-scale topographical factors, such as altitude and slope positions. However, how do slope positions affect leaf traits along altitudinal gradient is remained unknown. Specific leaf area, mass-based leaf nitrogen concentration, and leaf dry matter content of Quercus liaotungensis Koidz. were investigated on different slope positions along the altitudinal distribution gradient of the species. The result of ANOVA showed that there were no significant differences of topographical factor and soil nutrient conditions among slope positions, except soil organic matter content. Remarkable distinctions of leaf dry matter content were found among slope positions, and the highest value appeared on top slopes, whereas the lowest on bottom slopes. There were no significant differences of specific leaf area and leaf nitrogen concentration on different slope positions. Specific leaf area had negative correlations with leaf dry matter content on all slopes, however, leaf dry matter content varied least per unit specific leaf area on top slopes. Unlike previous results, specific leaf area correlated negatively with leaf nitrogen concentration on top slopes, while no obvious relationships were found between them on middle and bottom slopes. Slope positions may affect leaf traits and their relationships of Q. liaotungensis, especially top slopes in Dongling Mountain.