Research progress on cambial activity of trees and the influencing factors

Abstract

Tree growth is the main way of carbon sequestration in forest ecosystems, which is influenced by climatic and non-climatic factors. The long-term location monitoring of cambial phenology and wood formation dynamics (xylogenesis) is an important method to clarify the responses of radial growth to climate change. Here, we reviewed studies on cambial phenology and xylogenesis by microcoring method. Firstly, we reviewed the effects of climatic factors on cambial phenology. The onset and cessation of xylogenesis were determined by temperature in cold and humid conditions. Temperature and water availability collectively modulated the onset of xylogenesis under dry conditions, and the later determined the end of xylogenesis. The radial increment was regulated by rate and duration of cell production, with the maximum of growth rate occurring around the summer solstice. Short-term N addition did not affect wood formation dynamics. Secondly, we reviewed the roles of biological factors in regulating xylogenesis. The onset of xylogenesis differred among species, ages, and inter-specific competition. Seasonal dynamics of non-structural carbohydrates were coupled with wood formation. Finally, we reviewed the response mechanisms of xylogenesis to the interaction of climatic and biological factors. In conclusion, we put forward problems in current studies and prospected future development to provide reference for further scientific research.