Inter-relations between tree-ring width and vessel features in black alder (Alnus glutinosa)

Abstract

From a long time ago, researchers in the fields of wood science, dendroclimatology and tree physiology were interested in variation of tree-ring width and vessel features within a tree. However, mutual relationship and interplay between these anatomical features were less studied. In this regard, the main question is whether the pattern of adjustment in wood anatomical traits (tree-ring width and vessel features) is similar in all hardwoods and in every site? Or may the same species chose different strategies in different sites? To answer these questions, two growing sites of black alder (Alnus glutinosa) with completely different micro-climates (dry and brackish) were selected near Astara city. In each site, a few trees were selected, cut or cored. After preliminary treatments, wood cross sections were prepared from the bark to the pith of each tree. These sections were scanned and by using an image analysis software, tree-ring width (TRW), average vessel lumen area (AVLA), number of vessel in the unite of an area (VF), and the porosity (Porosity) of a tree ring were measured in the last 20 annual rings of each tree. To study the inter-relations between variables at each site, they were analyzed using different statistical tests. The results showed that the inter- and mutual-relations between tree-ring width and vessel features were similar in tow studied sites. In brief, it can be concluded that regardless of site and climatic condition, in alder trees, wider tree rings leads to fewer vessels and these two anatomical traits are controlled by the same component but AVLA is affected by a different component and is not associated with the tree-ring width.

Keywords

• Image J
• Hydraulic conductivity
• tree physiology
• vessel features
• WOOD ANATOMY