The Iron and Manganese Status of Seven Upper Montane Tree Species in Colorado, USA, Following Long-Term Waterlogging

Abstract

Seven tree species were investigated for possible Fe and Mn toxicity following prolonged exposure to enriched groundwater in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA. The groundwater contained abnormally high levels of Fe and Mn following a catastrophic flood in July 1982. The tree species were Pinus ponderosa, Pinus contorta, Pinus flexilis, Picea engelmannii, Abies lasiocarpa, Populus tremuloides, and Populus angustifolia. A shrub, Salix monticola, was also studied. The Fe-enriched conifers and Populus tremuloides died, while Populus angustifolia and Salix monticola remained healthy. Foliar Fe and Mn concentrations were determined for normal and flood-affected trees (...)