Differential impacts of long-term (CO2) and O3 exposure on growth of northern conifer and deciduous tree species

Abstract

The long-term effects of elevated CO2 and CO2+O3 concentrations on the growth allocation in northern provenances of Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) Karst.], Scots pine [Pinus sylvestris (L.)] and pubescent birch clones (Betula pubescens Ehrh.) were examined in open-top chambers after a 4-year-long experiment. The total biomass responses of the tree seedlings to increased CO2 and CO2+O3 concentrations were not statistically significant and varied between the provenances and species. The seedlings of northern origin were the least sensitive in their response to treatments. The total biomass of the Norway spruce seedlings slightly decreased in response to CO2 in three provenances. Scots pine from the local provenance had a slight biomass increase after elevated CO2+O3 treatment. The slower-growing birch clone seemed to benefit from elevated CO2, whereas in the faster-growing clone, reductions in biomass accumulation were seen. The combined CO2+O3 treatment reduced the positive effects of elevated CO2, especially in the slower-growing birches. Observations of significant effects were limited to a few parameters. Carbon dioxide treatment decreased needle dry weight of Norway spruce in one northern provenance. The needle and wood dry weight increased (CO2 + O3) in local Scots pine. Significant birch response was limited to increased fine root density (O3 + CO2) in the inland clone. The diverse effects of elevated CO2 and CO2 +O3 on seedling growth and biomass provide evidence that exposure of northern trees to the enhanced variable CO2 and O3 concentrations of the future will have varied effects on the growth of these species. The direction and magnitude of those effects will differ depending on species and origins.