Carbon Allocation Dynamics in Mediterranean Pines Under Stress

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Carbon (C) allocation in trees involves three different aspects, namely, the fate of C in terms of tree compartment, C compound, and physiological process (often termed C flux). A review and synthesis of the recent literature on C allocation dynamics in Mediterranean pines, with an emphasis on stress conditions, reveals some important patterns. First, C allocation to stem growth is highly plastic in phenology and magnitude, whereas C allocation to needle growth is sensitive to growing conditions (e.g. drought, competition), but genetically programmed with respect to timing and magnitude. Second, starch is a major C reserve in Mediterranean pines, providing C under limited photosynthesis for weeks and months, replenished during recovery before growth is resumed, and stored at high concentrations in the root system. Third, C respiration is dominated by the roots, while growth and litter production are dominated by the foliage. Relocation fluxes occur under summer drought, i.e. from stem to foliage, and from roots to stem. Although minor in magnitude, these C fluxes might represent an important drought acclimation mechanism for pines in the Mediterranean.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPines and Their Mixed Forest Ecosystems in the Mediterranean Basin
Pages117-128
Number of pages12
DOIs
StatePublished - 13 Oct 2021

Publication series

NameManaging Forest Ecosystems

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