Uniform carbon reserve dynamics along the vertical light gradient in mature tree crowns.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the within-tree variability of non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) is crucial for interpreting point measurements and calculating whole-tree carbon balances. Yet, little is known about how the vertical light gradient within tree crowns influences branch NSC concentrations and dynamics. We measured NSC concentrations, irradiance and key leaf traits in uppermost, sun-exposed and lowest, shaded branches in the crowns of mature, temperate trees from nine species with high temporal resolution throughout one growing season. Measurements from two additional years allowed us to test the generality of our findings amongst climatically contrasting years. Despite the vertical light gradient, we found very similar seasonal NSC dynamics and concentrations between sun and shade branches in

SUBMITTER: Zahnd C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11898625 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature