Biologia Plantarum

, Volume 62, Issue 1, pp 157–165 | Cite as

Xylem sap chemistry: seasonal changes in timberline conifers Pinus cembra, Picea abies, and Larix decidua

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Abstract

The seasonal course of xylem sap parameters (electrical conductivity EC, potassium concentration [K+], and pH) of three conifers (Pinus cembra, Picea abies, and Larix decidua) growing at the alpine timberline was monitored. We also looked into possible effects of [K+] and pH on the difference in hydraulic conductivity (Δks). In all studied species, EC, [K+], and pH varied considerably over the year, with pH ranging between 7.3 (February) and 5.8 (June) and [K+] changing between 0.4 (January) and 2.5 mM (June). The Δks was overall low with positive values during winter (up to +20 %) and negative values in summer (-15 % in August). Samples perfused with alkaline solutions showed higher Δks. Xylem sap parameters in all conifers under study were surprisingly variable over the year thus indicating either effects upon seasonal changes in environmental factors or active adjustments, or both. Although Δks values over the year were minor, observed induction of Δks by high pH might indicate a role for hydraulic adjustment in harsh winter periods.

Additional key words

European larch ionic effect Norway spruce pH potassium stone pine 

Abbreviations

EC

electrical conductivity

[K+]

potassium concentration

WC

water content

Δks

difference in hydraulic conductivity

Ψ

water potential

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Copyright information

© The Institute of Experimental Botany 2018

Authors and Affiliations

  1. 1.Department of BotanyUniversity of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
  2. 2.Department of Life SciencesUniversity of TriesteTriesteItaly

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