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Tree carbon allocation dynamics determined using a carbon mass balance approach.
1Institute of Botany, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
The New Phytologist
|August 27, 2014
Summary
This study quantifies tree carbon allocation dynamics in Pinus halepensis using a mass balance approach. Results reveal seasonal carbon imbalances buffered by starch reserves, offering insights into internal carbon flux.
Area of Science:
- Plant Physiology
- Forest Ecology
- Biogeochemistry
Background:
- Internal carbon (C) fluxes within trees are challenging to measure directly.
- Understanding tree C allocation is crucial for forest ecosystem dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify internal carbon fluxes and allocation dynamics in Pinus halepensis.
- To describe and quantify tree C allocation on diurnal to annual time-scales.
- To assess the role of carbon reserves in buffering seasonal imbalances.
Main Methods:
- Employed a carbon mass balance approach using independent measurements of tree C sources, sinks, and pools.
- Developed a process flowchart to model carbon allocation.
- Converted all fluxes to grams of C per tree per day (g C tree(-1) d(-1)).
Main Results:
- Annual carbon source (24.5 kg C tree(-1) yr(-1)) balanced by sinks (23.5 kg C tree(-1) yr(-1)).
- Carbon sinks partitioned into respiration (70%), growth (17%), and litter/export (13%).
- Observed significant seasonal carbon imbalances (excess in wet season, deficit in dry season) buffered by starch reserves.
Conclusions:
- The carbon mass balance approach successfully described internal carbon flux timing, magnitude, and direction.
- Starch reserves play a vital role in buffering transient carbon imbalances in Pinus halepensis.
- The study provides a comprehensive understanding of carbon allocation dynamics in semi-arid forest ecosystems.
Keywords:
carbon allocationcarbon balanceflux partitioningphloem transportsoluble sugarsstarchtree compartmentMore Related Videos
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