Diurnal and Seasonal Patterns of Photosynthesis and Respiration by Stems of Populus tremuloides Michx.

Abstract

The photosynthetic and respiratory rates of 5- to 7-year-old aspen stems (Populus tremuloides Michx.) were monitored in the field for 1 year to determine the seasonal patterns. The stem was not capable of net photosynthesis, but the respiratory CO(2) loss from the stem was reduced by 0 to 100% depending on the time of year and the level of illumination as a result of bark photosynthesis. The monthly dark respiratory rate ranged from 0.24 mg CO(2)/dm(2). hr in January to a maximum 7.4 mg CO(2)/dm(2). hr in June. Individual measurements ranged from 0.02 mg CO(2)/dm(2). hr in February to 12.3 mg CO(2)/dm(2). hr in June. Gross photosynthesis followed a pattern similar to the dark respiratory rate. The mean monthly rate was highest in June (1.65 mg CO(2)/dm(2). hr) and lowest in December (0.02 mg CO(2)/dm(2). hr). Individual measurements ranged from 0.0 mg CO(2)/dm(2). hr in winter to 5.5 mg CO(2)/dm(2). hr in July.Winter studies showed that stem respiration continued down to -11 C, the coldest temperature during this study. Upon warning to -3 C, the dark respiratory rate showed a sudden sharp increase (7- to 12-fold) which required many hours to return to normal levels. No measurable photosynthesis occurred below -3 C. Between -3 and 0 C, the maximal photosynthetic rate was reduced to less than 50% of the respiratory rate, but increased to 89% between 5 to 10 C.On a yearly basis, bark photosynthesis in P. tremuloides reduced the stem respiratory CO(2) loss by 28.7% on a daytime basis and an estimated 16 to 18% on a 24-hour basis.