Comparative analysis of growth rings in perennial forbs grown in an Alpine restoration experiment.

ABSTRACT: Recent studies have demonstrated that growth rings are widespread in the roots of forbs, and there is evidence that the rings are formed annually. However, the annual nature and development of the growth rings has not yet been examined in comparative experimental studies. In this study growth rings were analysed in the main roots of four alpine forbs (Lotus alpinus, Trifolium thalii, Silene willdenowii and Potentilla aurea) that were grown in an alpine restoration experiment for 6 years. All individuals of L. alpinus and T. thalii, and some individuals of S. willdenowii showed six clearly demarcated growth rings, demonstrating that the rings were formed annually. P. aurea did not show distinguishable growth rings. In L. alpinus and T. thalii there were fluctuations in growth ring width tha

SUBMITTER: Dietz H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4240459 | biostudies-literature | 2002 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature