Growth, Morphology, and Physiology of Intsia bijuga Trees Under Varied Light Conditions

Abstract

Six studies were conducted with Intsia bijuga seedlings to determine the methods and extent of shade tolerance for this species. Growth differences were minimal among plants receiving varied light exposure, although treatments ranged from 19% to 100% sunlight exposure. Light saturated photosynthesis of leaves on plants receiving 24% sunlight was achieved at a photosynthetic photon flux (PPF) of about one-fourth of that for the leaves on plants receiving 100% sunlight exposure. However, photosynthesis under conditions of extremely low PPF was higher for shade-grown plants than for full-sun plants. Shaded plants exhibited lower dark respiration, light compensation point, and light-saturated photosynthesis than full sun plants. Leaflet thickness, palisade layer number, and stomatal density of leaves of shaded plants were reduced compared with full sun plants. At seedling emergence and for several months thereafter, the plants responded to shade primarily with obligate sun plant characteristics. After the plants were established, however, responses to the varied light conditions indicated facultative structural and physiological characteristics.