Adjustments in hydraulic architecture of Pinus palustris maintain similar stomatal conductance in xerix and mesic habitats

R.N. Addington; L.A. Donovan; R.J. Mitchell; J.M. Vose; S.D. Pecot; S.B. Jack; U.G. Hacke; J.S. Sperry; R. Oren

Treesearch

Adjustments in hydraulic architecture of Pinus palustris maintain similar stomatal conductance in xerix and mesic habitats

Informally Refereed

Authors:

R.N. Addington, L.A. Donovan, R.J. Mitchell, J.M. Vose, S.D. Pecot, S.B. Jack, U.G. Hacke, J.S. Sperry, R. Oren

Year:

2006

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Southern Research Station

Source:

Plant. Cell and Environment, Vol. 29: 535-545

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Abstract

We investigated relationships between whole-tree hydranlic architecture and stomatal conductance in Pinus palustris Mill. (longleaf pine) across habitats that differed in soil properties and habitat structure. Trees occupying a xeric habitat (characterized by sandy, well-drained soils, higher nitrogen availability and lower overstory tree density) were shorter in stature and had lower sapwood-to-leaf area ration (A_sA_L) then trees in a mesic habitat. The soil-leaf water gradient (T_s - T_L) and leaf-specific hydraulic conductance (K_L) were similar between sites, as was tissue specific hydraulic conductivity (K_s) of roots.

Keywords

habitat structure, hydraulic conductance, leaf water potential, longleaf pine, density, tree height, water relations

Citation

Addington, R.N.; Donovan, L.A.; Mitchell, R.J.; Vose, J.M.; Pecot, S.D.; Jack, S.B.; Hacke, U.G.; Sperry, J.S.; Oren, R. 2006. Adjustments in hydraulic architecture of Pinus palustris maintain similar stomatal conductance in xerix and mesic habitats. Plant. Cell and Environment, Vol. 29: 535-545