Direct observation of local xylem embolisms induced by soil drying in intact Zea mays leaves.

ABSTRACT: The vulnerability of vascular plants to xylem embolism is closely related to their stable long-distance water transport, growth, and survival. Direct measurements of xylem embolism are required to understand what causes embolism and what strategies plants employ against it. In this study, synchrotron X-ray microscopy was used to non-destructively investigate both the anatomical structures of xylem vessels and embolism occurrence in the leaves of intact Zea mays (maize) plants. Xylem embolism was induced by water stress at various soil drying periods and soil water contents. X-ray images of dehydrated maize leaves showed that the ratio of gas-filled vessels to all xylem vessels increased with decreased soil water content and reached approximately 30% under severe water stress. Embolism occu

SUBMITTER: Ryu J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4861012 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature