Similar Journals
|
Trees
Journal Prestige (SJR): 0.726  Citation Impact (citeScore): 2 Number of Followers: 3  Hybrid journal (It can contain Open Access articles)ISSN (Print) 0931-1890 - ISSN (Online) 1432-2285 Published by Springer-Verlag  [2468 journals]
|
- Highly variable bark-wood density relationships across tree species
reflect tradeoffs in evolved tolerances to environmental stressors-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message Tree bark and wood density are highly variable and weakly positively correlated, with species having more or less dense bark than wood to adapt to different environmental stressors. Tree bark is a complex, multifunctional structure and bark density varies widely across species. While wood density is recognized as a fundamental indicator of the functional ecology of trees, bark density has received much less attention as a key functional trait. Theoretically, bark and wood density should co-vary to some degree, but comprehensive examinations of this covariation are scarce. How do key functional traits of individual trees and species relate to bark and wood density variation/covariation' How does a tree’s life history and evolved tolerance to environmental stress shape variation/covariation in bark and wood density' This study draws from published literature and a large database of individual tree measurements of trees of diverse species and growing conditions, from forest ecosystems across the United States and Canada, to understand covariation between bark and wood density and its relationship to life-history traits and evolved tolerances to environmental stressors. The results of this study show a high tree-to-tree variation in both bark density and wood density, with inherited differences in tissue formation constraining the range of bark and wood densities. All analyses show that bark density was weakly, positively correlated with wood density. Mixed effects modeling showed a strong phylogenetic signal in variation in bark and wood density that was partially explained by the need for species to produce more or less -dense bark and wood to adapt to different environmental stressors (tolerance of drought, shade, frost, waterlogging and fire were all examined), with clearly different relationships for angiosperms versus gymnosperms.
PubDate: 2024-08-02
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02548-z
-
- Adaptive potential of European beech in a provenance trial established in
Serbia-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key Message In a provenance trial conducted in Serbia, the provenance of the beech trees exhibited a stronger influence on leaf morphology than on survival rate. Provenance trials are crucial for understanding the genetic diversity within beech provenances and advising forestry management practices. In this study, by integrating leaf morphometric analyses and survival data from a 16-year-old provenance trial in Serbia, we aimed to uncover patterns and mechanisms that govern plant–environment interactions in beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) ecosystems. The provenance trial used in this study was established in 2007, as part of the broader European network, from seedlings of 22 provenances originating across Europe. In the fall of 2007 and 2010, and in the summer 2023, plant vitality was recorded within each provenance. For geometric morphometrics, leaves were collected in 2023. The analyses tested the effects of provenance, provenance geographical origin, and provenance survival trend on leaf size and shape. The results showed significant variation in leaf size and shape and revealed that while there was no clear pattern of correlation between survival percentage and leaf morphology, provenance origin did show significant influence on leaf size and shape. Additionally, source stands environmental factors exerted a stronger influence on leaf shape than on leaf size variation. The observed variability in beech leaf morphology on one side, and survival rates on the other side, serve as indicators of the species' resilience and ability to adjust to changing environmental conditions.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02549-y
-
- Ecological role of the beech (Fagus sylvatica) provenance in the
development of Fusarium sambucinum damping-off symptoms-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message The contribution of this work enables efficient selection of F. sylvatica initial and reproductive material tolerant to the development of Fusarium sambucinum, providing better regeneration and seedlings production. The Fagus sylvatica damping-off caused by Fusarium sambucinum is a well-known but insufficiently studied disease, especially since it appears on other tree species in beech forests, creating a great possibility of beech infection. To understand the development processes of this fungus in natural stands and improve nursery production, we examined the influence of F. sylvatica germinants of different provenances on the development of damping-off symptoms caused by F. sambucinum. Our results indicated that the different provenances of F. sylvatica did not affect the possibility of symptoms, indicating the potential for intensive occurrence of infection with this fungal pathogen in geographically different F. sylvatica forests. Certain provenances showed statistically significant smaller dimensions of necrotic lesions and a higher degree of survival. The tolerant provenance seed had differences in width and thickness size compared to susceptible provenances. This research represents for the first time a reasonable basis for selecting initial material tolerant to damping-off caused by F. sambucinum.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02526-5
-
- Population genetics of an endangered desert shrub endemic to northwestern
China-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Abstract Tamarix taklamakanensis is an endangered shrub endemic to northwestern China. Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci obtained by Genotype-by-sequencing (GBS) method were used to estimate the genetic diversity and population structure of the species for developing conservation strategies. A moderate level of genetic diversity was (mean HE = 0.16) detected for the species, and sampled sites were grouped into two genetically distinct clusters by Bayesian assignment, principal coordinates analyses, and maximum-likelihood (ML) tree. The moderate level of genetic diversity is likely due to its reproductive characteristics and long-lived life-history traits, and the strong genetic differentiation between the two clusters suggests a positive response to habitat fragmentation. Based on the results, we provide useful conservation strategies for this species.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02529-2
-
- Updated dendrochronology and axial variation of climatic sensitivity in
Sequoiadendron giganteum-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message Dendroclimatic sensitivity varies by axial position for Sequoiadendron giganteum: negative correlations with June temperature strengthen with height, while positive correlations with snow water are strongest in the lower trunk. Increment cores collected along trunks of mature Sequoiadendron giganteum provide new and updated ring-width chronologies ideal for assessing how height above ground affects sensitivity of radial growth to climatic variation. Chronologies from 61 living trees at nine locations across the geographic distribution span 1973 yr. Analyses of subsets of 18–44 trees reveal that correlations between radial increments and climate (temperature, water availability) vary with axial position. Negative correlations with maximum and minimum June temperature intensify with height and are strongest at the highest position analyzed (60 m above ground). Sensitivity to the hydroclimate variable of April-1 snow water equivalent is stronger at lower trunk positions (10 m) compared to breast height or the upper trunk, and a similar relationship is identified for the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index using a 12-month window ending in September. Drought-induced low-growth years computed as radial increment relative to the mean of 10 yr before and after are more weakly expressed at breast height compared to higher on the trunk (10–60 m). Analysis of regional upper (maximum core height = 87 m) versus lower trunk (above buttress) chronologies corroborate differing inter-annual correlations with climate depending on height above ground. Accounting for axial variation in dendroclimatic sensitivity can maximize the quality of environmental reconstructions using tree rings and improve biophysical understanding of Sequoiadendron, especially in the context of an increasingly arid climate.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02517-6
-
- Spatial and temporal alterations of multiple hormones during the graft
union formation process in walnut (Juglans regia)-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Abstract Plant grafting involves naturally or intentionally merging distinct plant parts to form a single organism. Although it is a common horticultural practice used to improve the yield, quality, and resistance of horticultural crops and study the long-distance transport of molecules, the underlying mechanism of graft union formation (GUF) remains poorly understood. In this study, we optimized the in situ analysis method for plant hormones and explored the spatial and temporal distribution of endogenous hormones (IAA, ABA, and ZR) during walnut GUF. The results demonstrated that changes in endogenous IAA and ZR levels in the graft union were consistent, with an increase during the rapid proliferation phase of callus tissue and enrichment in the cambium and cells of the grafting interface. As callus tissue entered the differentiation stage, endogenous IAA and ZR levels rapidly decreased and were mainly distributed in the callus tissue. Conversely, the level and distribution of endogenous ABA showed no significant changes during the rapid proliferation phase of callus tissue. However, they increased rapidly after entering the differentiation stage, mainly in the scion cambium and callus tissue. We also observed "S"-shaped, “M”-shaped, and “N”-shaped trends in the dynamic changes of IAA/ABA, IAA/ZR, and ZR/ABA ratios, respectively. Based on these results, we propose a spatial and temporal distribution model of endogenous hormones during walnut GUF. This provides a foundation for further investigation into the molecular mechanisms of hormone-mediated GUF in walnut and other woody plants.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-023-02472-8
-
- Genome-wide identification of 9-cis-epoxy-carotenoid dioxygenases (NCEDs)
and potential function of OfNCED4 in carotenoid biosynthesis of Osmanthus
fragrans-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message We identified seven OfNCEDs and analyzed the potential function of OfNCED4, which is involved in the biosynthesis of carotenoids and abscisic acid in Osmanthus fragrans. In plants, 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenases (NCEDs) can cleave carotenoids and are rate-limiting enzymes for the biosynthesis of abscisic acid (ABA). Sweet osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans Lour.), an important ornamental and fragrant tree, contains abundant carotenoids in its flowers. To examine the function of the 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenases (NCEDs) involved in ABA biosynthesis and floral coloration in O. fragrans, the sequences of seven OfNCEDs were isolated from the genomic DNA and cDNA of O. fragrans. A bioinformatics analysis showed that these OfNCEDs encode 422 ~ 591 amino acids, and they all contain the RPE65 domain. These OfNCEDs showed different patterns of expression, and that of OfNCED4 was most consistent to the patterns of ABA accumulation during the flowering process. Moreover, the levels of expression of seven OfNCEDs in the O. fragrans flowers were significantly induced by exogenous ABA. ABA-responsive elements were found in the promoters of OfNCEDs. The overexpression of OfNCED4 resulted in increased contents of chlorophylls, carotenoids and ABA, and up-regulation of NtCRTISO, NtLCYE, NtLCYB, and NtNXS, and down-regulation of NtCCD1 and NtCCD4 in tobacco leaves. It suggests that OfNCED4 probably mediates the biosynthesis of ABA. Taken together, this study systematically identified the bioinformatics, pattern of expression of OfNCED genes and the potential function of OfNCED4, which could provide molecular evidence for further research on the regulation of carotenoid biosynthesis and floral color of O. fragrans.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02522-9
-
- Towards an objective assessment of tree vitality: a case study based on 3D
laser scanning-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message Analyzing fine branch length characteristics in beech trees using single-tree QSMs derived from laser scanning reveals insights into drought-induced changes in vitality, which include branch shedding and reduced shoot growth. Climate change causes increasing temperatures and precipitation anomalies, which result in deteriorations of tree health and declines in ecosystem services of forests. It is therefore crucial to monitor tree vitality to preserve forests and their functions. However, methods describing tree vitality in situ are lacking reproducibility or are too laborious. Thus, we tested a laser-scanning based approach, assuming that an objective measurement of a tree’s outer shape should reveal changes according to tree vitality. QSMs of similarly sized beech trees from stands with varying degrees of drought damage were used. Absolute and relative fine branch lengths, their ratio to lower order branches’ lengths and their progressions over relative height were targeted to identify fine branch dieback and reduced growth. The absolute fine branch length was significantly lower for less vital beech trees, especially within the upper crown, leading to a less top-heavy vertical distribution of fine branches and a reduced fine-to-base order branch length ratio. Hence, height-dependent characteristics of fine branch lengths differed between vitalities. We conclude that using fine branch length characteristics derived from QSMs can be helpful in vitality assessments of beech trees. Still, uncertainties with regard to the plotwise assessment and problems with QSM quality are present.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02525-6
-
- Growth and physiological responses of Atlantic Forest tree seedlings to
nitrogen and phosphorus addition-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key Message Atlantic Forest tree seedlings with contrasting ecological characteristics present specific growth and physiological responses to nitrogen and phosphorus addition in the soil. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are commonly the most limiting nutrients for plant growth in tropical forests. Many of these ecosystems are exposed to increasing rates of anthropogenic nutrient deposition. This study aims to assess how five Atlantic Forest tree species respond to N and P addition to the soil. Five species with different levels of shade tolerance were subjected to nine weekly soil applications of (NH4)2SO4 (84 kg N ha−1 treatment N), NaH2PO4 (45 kg P ha−1 treatment P), both nutrients (treatment N + P), or water. Soil, foliar nutrient concentrations, and biometric and gas exchange analyses were performed. No changes in the soil pH or total N and P availability were observed in the soil after N addition, whereas P accumulated in the soil and leaves of three species after P addition. The pioneer species H. popayanensis presented increased total biomass with P and N+P treatments, while C. floribundus increased with P treatment and C. pachystachya increased with N + P treatment. N and P treatments reduced the photosynthesis of C. pachystachya and the stomatal conductance of C. pachystachya and C. floribundus. The growth rate and total biomass of C. estrellensis reduced with N and P treatments and increased with N+P treatment. Aspidosperma polyneuron presented reduced photosynthesis with N treatment, but increased total biomass with all treatments, especially N + P. The diversity of growth and physiological responses to N and P addition suggests that each species has specific nutrient requirements and uses strategies related to the niche occupied by each one.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02523-8
-
- Different responses of herbivore abundance to plant genotypic diversity
depending on herbivore host specificity-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message The response of herbivore abundance to birch genotypic diversity varies depending on the host specificity of the herbivores. Specialist, but not generalist, herbivores were affected by birch genotypic diversity. Biological control is an important ecosystem service mediated through plant diversity. Responses of herbivore abundance to plant genotypic diversity may depend on host specificity, especially the host-feeding type. We conducted a common-garden experiment by manipulating plot-level genotypic diversity (number of source populations per plot) of Erman’s birch (Betula ermanii) to understand how birch genotypic diversity affected the abundance of three herbivore feeding types (chewers, galls, and suckers). Specifically, we investigated whether the effects of plant genotypic diversity on herbivore abundance were additive or non-additive. Furthermore, we examined this mechanism as a possible change in plant phenotype (plant productivity and/or leaf traits) and/or herbivore foraging behavior (associational resistance with neighboring plant individuals). We found that genotypic diversity had a significant positive effect on condensed tannin concentration; however, it did not affect plant growth. There was no effect of increasing birch genotypic diversity on the density of chewers (generalists) and chewing herbivory, whereas the density of galls and suckers (specialists) decreased significantly. A negative non-additive effect was observed with regard to gall density and a negative additive effect on sucker density was observed. Gall density was not related to the increase in condensed tannins affected by birch genotypic diversity. This implies that associational resistance is more likely to explain the negative non-additive effects on gall density. Our study shows that the loss of birch genotypic diversity due to shrinking population sizes will strongly affect specialist herbivores in the boreal forests of Hokkaido.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02521-w
-
- Acacia mearnsii pyroligneous acid as a promoter of rooting and quality of
rooted cuttings of subtropical Eucalyptus-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message The pyroligneous acid of Acacia mearnsii enhanced the rooting, promoted higher carbon allocation and quality of rooted cuttings representing a novel, natural input for subtropical Eucalyptus clone production. The development of strategies aimed at optimizing the clonal propagation of Eucalyptus species, especially those that are difficult to root, is of great importance. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of applying different concentrations of the pyroligneous acid (PA) of Acacia mearnsii De Wild, through foliar spraying, on mini-cuttings of E. benthamii, E. dunnii, and the hybrid, E. urophylla × E. dunnii, during the summer and winter periods in southern Brazil. The experiments were carried out in a greenhouse in a factorial scheme, testing four PA concentrations (0 [control], 2%, 4%, and 6%) and five clones, E. benthamii (B1 and B2), E. dunnii (D1 and D2), and E. urophylla × E. dunnii (UD). Thirty days after staking, the percentage survival of the mini-cuttings was evaluated, and at 50 days, adventitious rooting and callogenesis, as well as the morphological attributes of the mini-cuttings were evaluated. Chemical analysis of the PA revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, primarily syringol, pyrocatechol, and guaiacol derivatives. The PA of A. mearnsii was shown to be a potential alternative input for maximizing the rooting percentages of subtropical Eucalyptus clones that are difficult to propagate. PA contributed to greater allocation of dry matter and quality (Dickson Quality Index) of clonal seedlings, except for clone D2. Spraying concentrations between 2 and 4% PA, applied twice a week, optimized the subtropical eucalyptus mini-cuttings, with the dose of maximum technical efficiency being (DMTE) estimated between 3.5 and 4.5% PA. PA represents a novel, natural input for the production of clones of E. benthamii, E. dunnii, and the hybrid, E. urophylla × E. dunnii.
PubDate: 2024-07-04
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02536-3
-
- Divergent responses to climatic conditions in radial growth of Abies
fargesii along elevation at the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message A gradual change exists in the altitudinal response of earlywood growth of Abies fargesii to hydrothermal conditions, with temperature being the main climatic factor controlling its latewood growth. The Tibetan Plateau, as the “Third Pole”, has witnessed profound and intricate effects of climate change in recent decades. This may result in different responses of tree radial growth to climatic factors in this region, varying with elevation and growth stages. To accurately reveal these different responses we established totalwood, earlywood and latewood width chronologies of Abies fargesii at four elevations. Our results showed that: (1) As the elevation increases, the response of radial growth of Abies fargesii to climatic factors shifted from restriction primarily by water deficiency caused by rapid warming, to weak restriction by winter precipitation with favorable hydrothermal conditions, and then to double restriction owing to insufficient heat and excessive moisture. This pattern was inconsistent with the relationship between the radial growth and climatic factors for latewood observed at the low and middle–low elevations. (2) There existed a temporal variability in the relationship between tree radial growth and restrictive climate factors. This unstable relationship was mainly observed in the middle–low elevation within suitable ecological conditions and during the later stages of tree radial growth with lower growth rates. This is related to the fact that more suitable ecological conditions and lower growth rates make tree growth more susceptible to climatic fluctuations. Considering these findings, if the climate would experience further cooling and humidity increasing in the study region, the growth of Abies fargesii might be more adversely affected at high elevation. For economic and ecological considerations, the afforestation of Abies fargesii should be prioritized in the middle–low elevation zones where favorable for the population distribution.
PubDate: 2024-07-02
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02533-6
-
- Growth rate determines the superior xylem growth of Siberian spruce over
Siberian larch in the southern Altai Mountains, Northwest China-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message Despite the better performance in wood growth compared with Siberian larch, Siberian spruce may be more vulnerable to ongoing climate change. Understanding the species-specific wood formation kinetics is critical to assess forest growth and carbon sequestration under climate warming; however, such knowledge is still scarce in the fragile forest ecosystems of arid and semi-arid central Asia. Here, we monitored wood formation in two dominant tree species Siberian spruce (Picea obovata Ledeb.) and Siberian larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb.) during 2018 and 2019 at two sites in the southern Altai Mountains, northwest China, and aimed to describe the intra-annual dynamics of wood formation and to understand the annual variation in growth and carbon sequestration of these two species. Results show that the differences in wood production between species were remarkable. Siberian spruce produced 68.5–87.6 cells year−1 at an average rate of 0.82–0.95 cells day−1, about twofold higher than Siberian larch. The differences between species in terms of the onset, cessation timing, and duration of cell production were marginal. Cell production of both species started from mid-May to early June, ceased from early to mid-August, and lasted for about 64 to 70 days. The higher growth rate of spruce led to greater wood production compared to larch. The longer growing seasons induced by climate warming may not result in increased forest growth, thereby failing to enhance carbon sequestration in arid and semi-arid taiga of Central Asia.
PubDate: 2024-07-02
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02535-4
-
- Applying plant–plant interaction theory to advance tropical dry
forest restoration-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message Species interactions should be considered during the design of restoration plans for tropical dry forests. Legume trees dominate old-growth and regenerating tropical dry forests with some pioneers becoming temporarily monodominant during secondary succession. Yet, the mechanisms promoting legume coexistence in this ecosystem are poorly understood but essential to develop restoration strategies for degraded forests. We studied plant–plant interactions in the regeneration niche of an early and a late successional legume tree species, increasingly co-occurring in northwestern Mexico due to persistent climatic and anthropogenic disturbance that is altering forest dynamics. Our experiment comprised two species (Acacia cochliacantha, typical early successional and monodominant, and Lysiloma watsonii, typical late successional) × two habitats (direct light and shade) × three plant interaction treatments (control, intraspecific and interspecific). Each of the 12 experimental units contained 20 pots, totaling 240 replicates. We examined germination, seedling survival, and growth dynamics and determined seedling dry mass (total and root: shoot) at the end of the experiment. Our results suggest that legume monodominance in regenerating tropical dry forests starts early during germination and may be temporarily maintained through the interplay between interspecific facilitation and intraspecific competition. In contrast, late successional species may avoid negative heterospecific interactions by recruiting later (benefiting from neighbors’ shade) and maintaining neutral associations with conspecifics since early ontogenetic stages. Therefore, a cautious selection of early and late successional species and their spatial arrangement should be considered during the planning stage of restoration programs for tropical dry forests. Advancing our understanding of plant interactions in tropical dry forests should lead us to develop better tools for restoring this highly degraded ecosystem.
PubDate: 2024-06-28
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02532-7
-
- A climate sensitive nonlinear mixed-effects height to crown base model: a
study focuses on Phyllostachys pubescens-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message A climate-sensitive height to crown base (HCB) model developed by combining a nonlinear mixed-effects model and dummy variable approach led to higher prediction accuracy of HCB than those without climatic variables for moso bamboo. Height to crown base (HCB) is one of the important variables used in forest growth and yield models, as it is crucial for assessing vitality, competition, growth and development stage, stability, and production efficiency of the individuals. As climate impact is substantial on HCB, its inclusion of any forest model is crucial to make the model climate sensitive. However, existing HCB models do not consider climate impact on Phyllostachys pubescens (moso bamboo) HCB. With data collected from 26 moso bamboo sample plots in Jiangsu and Fujian provinces in China, we used five common HCB functions to develop climate sensitive HCB models. Modeling showed the significant effects of two individual variables (height—H, diameter at breast height—DBH), two stand-level variables (quadratic mean DBH—QMD, canopy density—CD), and two climate variables (extreme maximum temperature—EXT and Hargreaves’ climatic moisture deficit—CMD) on HCB. Compared with the basic model, the introduction of covariates (QMD, CD, EXT and CMD), dummy variable (regions), and random effects (block- and sample plot-level random effects) resulted in increased R2 by 5.01%, 7.13%, 7.14%, and 13.34%, respectively. The logistic model provided better fit statistics than other models we evaluated. Two-level nonlinear mixed-effects (NLME) models significantly improved fit statistics. Response calibration (model localization) with two medium-sized bamboos per sample plot provided the optimal prediction accuracy. This strategy can be considered as a reasonable compromise between the measurement costs and errors for HCB prediction.
PubDate: 2024-06-18
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02514-9
-
- Diversity of visitors to the flowers of two palm species of the genus
Oenocarpus in the Province of Napo, Ecuador-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Abstract In Ecuador, between the foothills of the Andes and the well-drained terra firme forests of the Amazon, there are two useful palm species, Oenocarpus bataua and O. mapora, which differ mainly in size. Both species are negatively affected by deforestation and land conversion for agriculture and cattle ranching, altering the structure and functioning of ecosystems. Management and restoration plans are therefore needed. To contribute with local knowledge of the species, we studied the diversity of flower visitors of both species in 9 sites in Napo Province during the flowering seasons of 2021 and 2022. We collected 16 inflorescences and measured the length, number of rachillae and flowers of each and correlated them with the richness and abundance of their floral visitors. Finally, we calculated a similarity index between species and developed an interaction network to observe associations between their inflorescences and flower visitors. We found 89 morphospecies of flower visitors, 77 in O. bataua and 51 in O. mapora, and 19 morphospecies are potential pollinators because they are active during the staminate and pistillate phases. This is the first report of flower visitors of O. mapora in western Amazonia, and it shared 40% of flower visitors with O. bataua, which is a higher percentage than previously reported between O. bataua and other species of the genus. The most common morphotypes in the staminate phase were Discocoris drakei, Notesia sp.2, Andrathobius sp.1, Mystrops vasquezi, and in the pistillate phase: D. drakei, A. bicarinatus and Phylotrox sp.1. These insect species should be taken into consideration when monitoring the status of the palm species and for conservation plans.
PubDate: 2024-06-18
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02524-7
-
- A screening analysis of foliar terpene emissions of 36 rainforest tree
species in French Guiana and their relationships with seasonality-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message Inventory and seasonal variation of terpene emissions from tropical trees in French Guiana: implications for environmental and ecological roles. A limited understanding of foliar terpene emissions from different tree species is prominent in diverse tropical forests. We conducted a study in French Guiana, screening BVOC emissions from 36 tropical woody species. We focused on 32 species in the dry season and 33 in the wet season, documenting terpene emissions for the first time in some of these tree species. Our findings show that 93.8% emitted terpenes in the dry season, while only 33.3% did so in the wet season. Terpene emissions ranged from 0.01 to 80.9 μg g−1 h−1 in the dry season and 0 to 11.7 μg g−1 h−1 in the wet season, consistent with previous reports. We identified and quantified 23 terpene compounds, including 19 monoterpenes and 4 sesquiterpenes. Additionally, 2 non-terpenoid compounds were detected: 2,2,4,6,6-pentamethylheptane (with no detected emissions in the dry season) and toluene. Among the monoterpenes, the most abundant were α-terpinolene, limonene, α-pinene, β-ocimene, and sabinene. As for sesquiterpenes, β-caryophyllene, α-caryophyllene, and α-copaene were observed during the dry season, while during the wet season, α-terpinolene predominated, followed by limonene, α-pinene, sabinene, β-caryophyllene, and α-copaene. Isoprene was detected in most of the species studied in both seasons. Sesquiterpene emissions displayed a notable phylogenetic pattern, whereas total terpenes and monoterpenes did not; however, total terpenes and monoterpenes exhibited a significant seasonal influence. Our study demonstrates that seasonality strongly influences BVOC production in tropical trees, with higher emissions in the dry season. These findings imply that various factors and conditions influence tree emissions in this tropical forest, affecting their ecological, environmental, and climatic roles, as well as the implementation of atmospheric chemistry models.
PubDate: 2024-06-17
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02530-9
-
- Modeling bark thickness and probability of trunk cavity occurrence
relative to tree size in Araucaria angustifolia trees-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message Models of bark thickness and trunk cavity occurrence improve allometry assessments and provide good indicators of the probability of tree decay or vitality—knowledge useful for old-growth tree conservation and management. This study aimed to model the attributes of Araucaria angustifolia that influence allometry assessments and its biomechanics. We used samples collected during dendrochronological studies to measure bark thickness and data from old-growth attribute surveys to assess the occurrence of trunk cavities (or hollows) associated with heartwood decay. First, nonlinear mixed-effects models were calibrated to predict bark thickness. Then the probability of hollow occurrence was evaluated with binomial regression using generalized linear models. Bark thickness increased with tree size, attaining an asymptote of 11.9 cm. This finding suggests that thickness above the asymptote may not offer additional protection to trees. Because bark has an influence on allometry assessments, we provide an accurate model to improve wood volume estimates. Hollows are associated with tree size and affect mechanical stability, and due to their empty space, it can cause bias in allometry assessment of biomass and wood volume. Suitable predictors of the probability of tree decay or vitality are provided. The predictors evaluated can also be used as a tree-level indicator of quality in selection systems. Our results highlight the importance of accounting for bark thickness and trunk hollows in carbon, conservation, and management surveys of Araucaria forests.
PubDate: 2024-06-13
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02531-8
-
- Morphological variation of Persian oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) in
Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyerahmad province, Iran-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Key message The studied populations of Persian oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) showed high phenotypic variation that is very necessary for the planning, design, and implementation of genetic protection programs for oaks. Persian oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) the most important tree species in the Zagros region includes more than 50% of the forests in this region. In the present study, 53 morphological traits were used to evaluate phenotypic variation among 100 trees belonging to Q. brantii collected from 10 areas of Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyerahmad province, Iran. Considerable variability was exhibited among the trees collected based on the traits measured (ANOVA, P < 0.01). The coefficient of variation (CV) ranged from 12.73 (in nut diameter) to 76.06% (in the transparency of leaf upper color). Leaf margin was highly variable, including doubly serrate, serrate, broadly spiny, spiny, and narrowly spiny. Leaf blade length ranged from 59.41 to 122.53 mm, nut weight ranged from 1.39 to 17.24 g, and kernel weight varied from 0.63 to 13.09 g. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed 15 main components, which contributed 76.60% of the total variance. Cluster analysis based on Ward’s method showed two different major clusters among all the trees studied. Besides, the studied 10 populations were placed into four groups in the bi-plot generated with PCA of population analysis. The studied populations of Q. brantii showed high phenotypic variation that is very necessary for the planning, design, and implementation of genetic protection programs for oaks.
PubDate: 2024-06-06
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02528-3
-
- Comparison of nectar and pollen resources in various Tilia species. A case
study from southern Poland-
Free pre-print version: Loading...Rate this result: What is this?Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating.
A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Abstract Management of food resources is considered fundamental for supporting insect pollinators, whose abundance shows a downward trend on the global scale. Here, the nectar and pollen production (per flower, per 1 m2 of tree crown), the composition of nectar carbohydrates and the levels of pollen proteins was evaluated in eight Tilia species (Malvaceae) growing in SE Poland. In the warm-summer continental climate, Tilia species can improve nectar and pollen resources mainly in June/July. Although the flowering period of each species is short (8.0–14.7 days), appropriate selection of species can extend the availability of food for more than a month. However, the considerable variations in the flowering onset (11.2–20.1 days) may cause significant inter-seasonal shifts in food accessibility. The nectar with its highly changeable sugar concentration (29.5–77.4%) was composed of sucrose, glucose, and fructose; protein content in pollen was 7.2–16.8%. The mean sugar yield was in the range of 0.95–19.1 g per 1 m2 (T. amuriensis – T. platyphyllos, respectively), whereas the mean pollen yield was 1.37–4.1 g per 1 m2 of tree crown (T. amuriensis – T. × euchlora, respectively). Significant year-to-year fluctuations of sugar and pollen yield in linden trees have to be taken into account in conservation schemes, and the introduction of other flowering plants with more stable sugar and pollen production should be considered in an area with a high density of linden trees. Linden flowers mainly support honey bees; nevertheless, wild pollinators (bumble bees, solitary bees, and dipterans) can also benefit from linden floral resources.
PubDate: 2024-06-05
DOI: 10.1007/s00468-024-02527-4
-
