Vulnerability to cavitation, hydraulic efficiency, growth and survival in an insular pine (Pinus canariensis).

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

It is widely accepted that hydraulic failure due to xylem embolism is a key factor contributing to drought-induced mortality in trees. In the present study, an attempt is made to disentangle phenotypic plasticity from genetic variation in hydraulic traits across the entire distribution area of a tree species to detect adaptation to local environments.

Methods

A series of traits related to hydraulics (vulnerability to cavitation and hydraulic conductivity in branches), growth performance and leaf mass per area were assessed in eight Pinus canariensis populations growing in two common gardens under contrasting environments. In addition, the neutral genetic variability (FST) and the genetic differentiation of phenotypic variation (QST) were compared in order

SUBMITTER: Lopez R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3662524 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature