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

Informally Refereed

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 (AsAL) then trees in a mesic habitat. The soil-leaf water gradient (Ts - TL) and leaf-specific hydraulic conductance (KL) were similar between sites, as was tissue specific hydraulic conductivity (Ks) 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
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/25428