Abstract
(1) Seasonal changes of nutrient concentrations in the leaves of the main tree and grass species of a semi-arid savanna in Botswana have been analysed. (2) The nitrogen concentration in the leaves of shallow-rooted Acacia species is higher than in deep-rooted ones. The higher nitrogen status of the shallow-rooted Acacia species could be the cause for their encroachment into overgrazed areas. (3) Substantial quantities of nitrogen and phosphorus are translocated from the deciduous leaves to perennial organs long before leaf abscission; sodium, calcium and iron are accumulated in older leaves. (4) A comparison of the nutrient budgets of inflorescences and infructescences in trees shows a strong nutrient demand for the developing infructescence. It is suggested that the high variability in fruit production between and within trees is caused by the high phosphorus demand of the developing fruit.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
