Picea Orientalis Research Articles

Determination of the Suitable Biomonitors to be used in Monitoring the Change for Reducing the Concentration of V in Areas with High-Level of Air Pollution.

In this study, Vanadium (V) concentrations were analyzed in five tree species (Pinus pinaster, Cupressus arizonica, Picea orientalis, Cedrus atlantica, and Pseudotsuga menziesii) from Duzce city (Turkey), a highly polluted area. The research compared V levels across species, organs, directions, and age groups over the past 40 years. Trees, which absorb nutrients from soil and air, were used as biomonitors. Cupressus arizonica and Cedrus atlantica emerged as effective for V mitigation due to high wood accumulation. Significant inter- and intra-species variations in V concentrations were noted, underscoring their potential as V indicators. Annual rings from older trees offer a long-term monitoring method. This study highlights the importance of species-specific selection for monitoring heavy metals and the role of wood in preventing reintroduction of metals into ecosystems. It enhances our understanding of V dynamics and the environmental monitoring potential of these species.

A comparison of the early growth and survival of lesser-known tree species for climate change adaptation in Britain

Globally, climate change is altering both seasonal climates and the occurrence of extreme climate events, resulting in a drive to ensure our forests are resilient to these changes and the challenges they will bring. In Great Britain (GB), there has been a reliance on a limited number of species grown in monospecific plantations and concerns over the resilience of these forests is leading to a growing recognition of the need to diversify tree species composition. However, evidence of the relative growth rate and survival of alternative tree species and provenances during the critical establishment phase (typically within five or six years of planting) is often limited, hampering consideration of the wider adoption of many potentially suitable species. To address this knowledge gap, we compared tree height and survival data six years after planting from 34 provenances across 18 tree species at five experimental sites established across GB in 2012 in monospecific plots. For coniferous species, we found that Larix decidua, Larix x marschlinsii and Pinus radiata (on drier sites) were consistently amongst the tallest species, but survival could be variable. Pseudotsuga menziesii and Pinus pinaster also showed good early growth, matching the growth rate of Picea sitchensis (the most widely planted conifer in GB) when co-occurring and often exhibited good survival. In contrast Picea orientalis was slow to establish and amongst the smallest species at all five sites after six years, with Cedrus atlantica also performing poorly where planted. Surprisingly, we found very few differences in both mean tree height and survival between most provenances of the same species across all experimental sites, though more obvious differences may emerge as these trees mature. Only a small number of broadleaf species were available for analysis at age six in this study, but as expected Betula pendula generally performed well, while Acer macrophyllum often had very high mortality. While there are concerns around the susceptibility of pine species to Dothistroma septosporum and the future use of larch species in GB forestry is currently limited by the disease Phytophthora ramorum, our results highlight the potential for these species to establish well and exhibit good initial growth and survival on drier sites, with the same true of P. menziesii on moister sites. Future work should aim to understand whether further differences between species and provenances emerge with age and explore the potential of these emerging species as components of mixed-species stands to increase GB forest resilience to climate change.

The effects of microwave and microwave + infrared drying treatments of Pinus brutia and Picea orientalis on water absorption and physical properties

The goal of this study was to find a way to shorten wood drying time by using microwave and combined infrared + microwave drying methods and to analyze color and gloss changes. Wood samples prepared in three groups with dimensions of 20×20×30 mm were used in moisture tests and 75×5×150 mm were used in color change and gloss measurements, obtained from Red pine (Pinus brutia) and Eastern spruce (Picea orientalis) woods. The samples were oven dried, dried by microwave, or dried by infrared + microwave drying method. The wood samples all reached the target moisture. Their weight and volume were calculated in accordance with the principles of TS ISO 13061-1. Color change values were determined before and after drying with a portable color reader (Konica Minolta CR-10) device, and gloss measurements were taken with the Gardner brand gloss meter. By microwave drying for 15 min, 4% moisture content was reached in the wood samples, so both time and energy were saved. The moisture content values decreased compared to the whole drying methods. Most color change was observed in the drying methods using infrared for both red pine and eastern spruce.

Used in Urban Area for Landscape Planning and Design Spatial and Temporal Variations in Chromium (Cr) Concentrations in Picea orientalis L.

This study investigates the spatial and temporal variations in chromium (Cr) concentrations in Picea orientalis L., across different directions (north, east, south, and west) and plant organs (outer bark, inner bark, and wood) in a forested region. The research, conducted over eight age periods spanning 1980 to 2020, aimed to assess the effectiveness of Picea orientalis L. as a biomonitor for Cr pollution. The highest Cr concentrations were observed in the east direction, particularly in the inner bark and wood, while the lowest levels were found in the west. The study was conducted in an urban area near the industrial zone and highway, as well as in forested regions. A total of 100 trees were selected for the study, with samples collected from three different organs: outer bark (OB), inner bark (IB), and wood. Samples were taken from each organ at breast height (approximately 1.3 meters above the ground) to ensure consistency. The sampling covered various age periods, specifically 1980–2020, to analyze temporal changes in Cr concentrations. Statistical analysis revealed significant variations in Cr concentrations across most directions and periods, with notable increases during certain periods, especially in the west direction. These variations can be attributed to several factors, including the proximity to industrial sources of pollution, which typically release higher levels of chromium into the environment. The eastern direction likely experiences greater exposure to these emissions due to prevailing wind patterns and urban runoff, leading to increased accumulation in Picea orientalis L. Additionally, seasonal changes, temperature fluctuations, and soil characteristics may influence the bioavailability of chromium, affecting its uptake by the tree. The results suggest that Picea orientalis L. can effectively reflect Cr pollution levels, with significant directional and temporal variations that highlight the influence of these environmental factors on Cr accumulation. This study underscores the potential of Picea orientalis L. as a valuable tool for monitoring and managing Cr pollution in forested environments.

Effect of nano particulate preservation materials on the combustion temperatures of the wood

It is acknowledged that boron, ammonium, and nitrogenous compounds, which are used today as fire retardants, cause an increase in the hygroscopicity of wood materials. In this study, Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), Anatolian chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.), and Eastern spruce (Picea orientalis Link) woods were impregnated with 1.5% nano-sized hexagonal boron nitride (NB) according to ASTM D1413-76 (1976) standards. Flame-induced combustion (FIC), self-combustion (SC), and glowing combustion (GC) temperatures were determined. The highest retention amount was measured in spruce and the lowest was in chestnut among the wood samples taken for testing and measurement. When compared with the control samples, NB application caused an increase in SC and FIC temperatures (at higher rates). According to the glowing combustion temperature control samples, an increase was observed in chestnut and spruce and a decrease was observed in Scots pine among the samples applied with NB.

Identification of proper species that can be used to monitor and decrease airborne Sb pollution.

Heavy metal concentrations, which have increased continuously in the environment this century due to anthropogenic factors, severely threaten human and environmental health. Antimony (Sb) is one of the most toxic and harmful heavy metals in terms of human and environmental health. Therefore, the priority research subjects are monitoring the alteration of Sb pollution in the airborne and reducing pollution. This study was conducted to conclude the proper species to monitor and drop airborne Sb contamination on trees grown in Düzce, the 5th most polluted European city. This study examined samples taken from Pseudotsuga menziesii, Cupressus arizonica, Pinus pinaster, Picea orientalis, and Cedrus atlantica, and the Sb concentration changes based on tree species, route, tissue, and age range in the last 40years were evaluated. The study hypothesizes that Sb concentration varies depending on (1) tree species, (2) direction, (3) plant tissue, and (4) age range, all confirmed in this study. In conclusion, the maximum concentrations were achieved in the outer bark and east (5.45µgg-1) and north directions (6.72µgg-1), with high traffic density. In addition, the mining and industrial places (sources of metal pollution) are not close to the study area. Therefore, it was concluded that traffic pollution was the primary source of Sb pollution in the study area. The study revealed that C. arizonica is the most suitable species for monitoring and reducing the change in Sb pollution because the highest Sb concentration (4.47µgg-1) in wood (the largest organ) was obtained in C. arizonica.

Accumulation analysis and overall measurement to represent airborne toxic metals with passive tree bark biomonitoring technique in urban areas.

Authorities have long proved the utility of bioindicators in monitoring the state of environmental pollution. Some biological indicators can measure environmental pollutant levels, and many tree species have been tested for suitability for monitoring purposes. The differences in morphological characteristics in the trees have demonstrated the effects of human activities on different materials. Measuring bark and wood biomass from contaminated sites was identified and directly compared with those from a clean site or areas characterized by distinct contamination sources. However, preliminary results demonstrate the approach's potential in the realization of strategies for disease control and promoting health to reduce environmental and health inequalities in at-risk urban areas. Picea orientalis L. and Cedrus atlantica Endl., especially their bark, can be regarded as a more robust storage of Cu (37.95 mg/kg) and Mn (188.25 mg/kg) than Pinus pinaster, Cupressus arizonica, and Pseudotsuga menziesii, which and is therefore a better bioindicator for Cu and Mn pollution. Considering the total concentrations as a result of the study, the pollution is thought to be caused by environmental problems and traffic in the region. The deposition of Cu, Mn, Ni, and Zn elements was found P. menziesii (60, 443, 58, and 258 mg/kg) and P. orientalis (76, 1684, 41, and 378 mg/kg) and seems to reflect atmospheric quite clearly compared to P. pinaster, C. arizonica, and C. atlantica. Ni and Zn concentrations have significantly increased since 1983, and P. menziesii and P. orientalis can be potentially valuable bioindicators for emphasizing polluted fields.

Use of oriental spruce gum (Picea orientalis (L.) Link) in gluten-free milk-based dessert

In this research, the usability of oriental spruce gum (Picea orientalis (L.) Link) as a texture improver in the production of gluten-free milk-based pudding was investigated. The produced custards were investigated in terms of color, texture, and sensorial properties. As a result, it was detected that oriental spruce gum usage in production of milk-based custard was not liked due to sensorial acceptability despite the development of the technological properties of the product in terms of physical and chemical properties. Moreover, it was detected that the product’s attractiveness in terms of taste and visual is less than the control sample. However, the use of the addition of subye in production in innovation studies can contribute to increasing awareness in the literature and providing product diversity, especially for celiac patients.

CHANGE IN SOME ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES OF WOODS USED IN MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AFTER CHEMICAL MODIFICATION WITH PROPIONIC ANHYDRIDE

The spruce (Picea orientalis), maple (Acer pseudoplatanus), sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum), cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) and mulberry (Morus alba) woods, which are among the wood types commonly used in making musical instruments, were subjected to chemical modification by propionic anhydride for 1 h, 3 h and 6 h reaction times. The changes in dimensional stability, sound velocities, modal frequencies and dynamic elasticity modulus values of wood samples after modification were investigated. According to the results obtained, as the weight gain values occurring depending on the reaction time increased, the dimensional stability increased in all wood types. When the acoustic properties were examined, it was determined that individual changes occurred at different values depending on the wood type and chemical modification times.

Distribution of Colchicum speciosum Steven in Trabzon Province, Türkiye

Colchicum speciosum Steven belongs to the Colchicaceae family and is native to the Eastern Black Sea Region of Anatolia. The genus Colchicum is used in the pharmaceutical industry due to the colchicine alkaloids contained in both its corms and seeds. This study was carried out to determine the distribution areas of Colchicum speciosum, an important medicinal aromatic plant, in Türkiye. To reach this purpose, field studies were carried out, collecting samples of the plant during suitable vegetation periods between 2015 and 2021 in Trabzon province. The present study was done using a full-field screening method. All field information about the taxon was recorded in the GIS database, and the distribution map of the taxon including Trabzon province was created. It was determined that Colchicum speciosum has a wide distribution in the study area, from 349 to 2560 m asl. In the study area, the specimens was determined at 192 different points and 12 different habitat types. These habitat types are mainly: pasture-meadow areas, both deciduous and conifer forest clearings, agricultural areas, hazelnut plantations, deciduous forests, coniferous forests dominated by Picea orientalis, roadsides, stony areas, scrubs, beech forests, seasonal stream edges, and swamp-reed areas. Additionally, it has been observed that the flowering time of the plant is between September and October.

Morphological, Molecular Identification and Virulence of Entomopathogenic Fungi Isolated From Dendroctonus micans (Kugelann,1794) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

In this study, to determine an effective fungal agent against Dendroctonus micans (Kugelann, 1794) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), which causes significant economic losses in forested areas, Picea orientalis (L.) Link in Artvin between 2021-2022. Dendroctonus micans larvae and adults were collected from the trees, and 18 fungi were isolated from larvae and adult insects. Morphological (infection type, colony morphology, spore form) and molecular (ITS1-5.8S ITS2 gene region) characterization determined that the isolates were Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschn.) Sorokin, 1883 (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae), M. robertsii, M. pinghaense and Clonostachys rosea Samuels & Rossman, 1999 (Hypocreales: Bionectriaceae). Isolates M. robertsii (OZM4) and M. pinhaense (OZM9) have been isolated from this pest for the first time. As a result of insecticidal activity tests performed on D. micans larvae and adults of 1x107spore/ml spore suspension, the larvae, M. anisopliae (OZM2), showed a mortality rate of 92% within 7 days and adults mortality was determined 100% at the end of the experiment, and mycosis rates were found to be consistent with mortality rates. These results show that isolates with high virulence are promising in microbial and integrated control applications against important forest pests.

Role of climate change on Oriental spruce (Picea orientalis L.): Modeling and mapping

Global climate change is a process with dramatic consequences for ecosystems, and changes that may occur in the potential distribution of plant communities especially draw attention. This study aimed to reveal the potential distribution modeling and mapping of the Oriental spruce (Picea orientalis L.), distributed in a limited area, using current and future (year 2100) climate scenarios in Turkey. The maximum entropy method for potential distribution and Chelsa V2.1 technical specification IPSL-CM6A-LR scenarios (SSP126-SSP370-SSP585) were preferred to reveal the effect of climate change. Results for the current were in the “excellent” category with training and test data AUC 0.981 and 0.977, respectively. The variables contributing to the model were the precipitation amount of the driest month, mean diurnal air temperature range, annual precipitation amount, and mean annual air temperature. Variables contributing to the current model were analysed using the SSP126, SSP370, and SSP585 scenarios of the year 2100. It was assessed that the potential distribution for 2100 decreases according to SSP126, was fragmented according to SSP370, and decreased according to the SSP585 scenario. As a result, the authors determined that the high potential distribution is reduced 61% when the current mapping of Oriental spruce is compared with the SSP585 mapping.

Elevation-dependent growth trends of Picea orientalis (L.) Peterm forests in the Fırtına Creek Basin (Rize/Turkey)

Changes in climatic conditions have ecological and economic consequences or impact for trees and forest stands. In this respect, it is crucial to understand the radial growth trends of trees, their ecological response across elevation gradients, and the possible impacts of climate change on the species. In this study, Picea orientalis (L.) Peterm, located in the Fırtına Creek Basin in the northern part of the Eastern Black Sea Mountains in northeastern Turkey, was investigated along different elevation gradients in the context of climate-growth response. In the study, six site chronologies along an elevation gradient from 900 m to 2050 m were developed. Dendroclimatological methods were applied to assess the elevation-dependent radial growth characteristics of trees. In total, 200 increment cores were collected from 98 living trees. The relationships between climate and tree ring growth along the elevation gradient showed a positive relationship between growth and temperature at upper elevations (1700–1900 m) and a positive relationship between growth and precipitation at middle elevations (1400–1600 m). In particular, January–April mean temperatures and May rainfall were positively correlated with tree-ring growth. At lower elevations (900–1100 m), the correlation coefficients between climate and growth are insignificant because, at these altitudes, the species have optimum ecological conditions. It was also found that mean temperatures between 0 °C and 2 °C in January–April and total precipitation between 60 and 100 mm in January–February positively affect tree growth. However, if these thresholds are exceeded, it is possible that growth may be adversely affected. This research underscores the complex interplay between climate variables and tree growth along elevation gradients, highlighting the need for adaptive management strategies in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Anadolu sarıçamının (Pinus sylvestris L. var. sylvestris) doğal yayılış alanı ve vejetasyon bileşimi

Anatolian Scots pine (P. sylvestris var. sylvestris) forests spreading in the northern part of Anatolia, Türkiye, and covering 2.1 million hectares show great variation in terms of the vegetation composition depending on both ecological conditions and human interference. The spreading and/or growing of Scots pine is mostly related to the sunny cold, subhumid continental climatic conditions as well as the cold and semiarid climate. It begins at the coastal belt of the Black Sea coast and rises up to 2700 m in the NE part of Anatolia, and continues towards the semiarid continental part of Central Anatolia. Scots pine is associated with Fagus orientalis, Castanea sativa, Tilia rubra, T. tomentosa, Alnus barbata, A. glutinosa, Quercus sp., etc. in the lower belt of the Black Sea coast, with Picea orientalis and Abies nordmanniana in the eastern upper belt of the Black Sea Mountains, and with Abies bornmulleriana in the middle and western parts of the Black Sea Region. It is composed of Pinus nigra and A. nordmanniana subsp. equi-trojani in the backward or southern parts of the Black Sea Region. Pure Scots pine stands occur in the subhumid continental part of NE Anatolia and the semiarid-subhumid continental part of Inner Anatolia. This study aims to highlight the natural occurrence of its forests, and to introduce their main vegetation composition reflecting ecological conditions.

The feasibility of using annual rings to monitor changes in boron concentrations in air

Boron is one of the most important elements on the agenda in recent years, both because it is a micronutrient for plants and because it is used in more than 250 fields in industry. Due to its intensive use and the continuous expansion of these areas of use, the concentrations of boron, which is produced more and more, are constantly increasing in receiving environments. However, boron, one of the important heavy metals, can cause significant health problems when inhaled from the air and taken into the human body. Therefore, monitoring the changes in boron concentration in the air is of great importance. In this study, the change of boron concentration in Pinus pinaster, Cupressus arizonica, Picea orientalis, Cedrus atlantica and Pseudotsuga menziesii species growing in Düzce, which is among the 5 most polluted cities in Europe, was examined on the basis of species, organ, direction and period in the last 40 years. The results of the study generally showed that boron concentrations did not change significantly on the basis of direction and year interval. Similarly, boron concentration in wood did not change significantly by species, whereas the change in boron concentration in bark was found to be statistically significant. According to the mean values, the lowest values were obtained in P. menziesii and the highest values were obtained in C. arizonica.

Emprenye ve Isıl İşlemin Ahşap Malzemenin Bazı Fiziksel ve Mekanik Özelliklerine Etkileri

The aim of this study was to determine some physical and mechanical properties of spruce (Picea orientalis) wood, which was impregnated with aqueous solutions of valonia (valex) (the extract of Quercus ithaburensis), pine bark powder (pinex) (Pinus brutia Ten.) and gallnut powder (galex) (Quercus infectoria Oliver) as a pre-treatment and then heat treated. Test specimens were prepared from sapwood of spruce wood and impregnated with 10% tannin solutions before heat treatment base on ASTM D 1413-76. After pre-impregnation processs, specimens subjected to heat treatment at 150 °C, 175 °C and 200 °C for 2 h. The effect of impregnation process and heat treatment temperature on the air-dried density, compressive strength paralell to the grain (CS), bending strength (MOR) and modulus of elasticity in bending (MOE) were analyzed. As results, impregnation solutions showed positive effects on mechanical strength in unheat-treated samples and determined that mecnaical strength loses due to heat treatment slightly limited at low temperatures. However, strength loses increased with increasing temperature. The highest strength loses were also determined in impregnated samples with galex extract and heat-treated samples at 200 °C.

Usability of biomonitors in monitoring the change of tin concentration in the air.

Air pollution, a pressing global issue, encompasses various harmful elements, with heavy metals being particularly significant pollutants affecting all forms of life. Effective monitoring and regulation of heavy metal concentrations, especially in the atmosphere, is pivotal. Employing trees as biomonitors emerges as a potent tool, particularly in retrospectively assessing long-term heavy metal contamination trends. This study aims to furnish insights into both tin (Sn) pollutants and the most suitable species for monitoring and mitigating such pollution. Within this study's ambit, samples were collected from Pinus pinaster, Cupressus arizonica, Picea orientalis, Cedrus atlantica, and Pseudotsuga menziesii species in Duzce Province. This area, ranked as the fourth-most air-polluted in Europe according to the World Air Pollution Report, was examined to discern changes in Sn concentration across species, organs, orientations, and age groups over the last four decades. The findings revealed varying potentials for Sn accumulation among the species. Specifically, Pinus pinaster and Picea orientalis were identified as suitable species for monitoring Sn pollution, while Cupressus arizonica, Cedrus atlantica, and Pseudotsuga menziesii exhibited potential for reducing Sn pollution.

Changes in strontium levels in bark and over the past 40 years in the wood of trees exposed to high levels of air pollution

The present study aims to identify the most suitable tree species for monitoring and reducing strontium (Sr) pollution. Strontium is a heavy metal that is extremely harmful to human and environmental health even at low concentrations and is listed as a priority pollutant by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry due to its potential harm. Samples were taken from Pinus pinaster, Cupressus arizonica, Picea orientalis, Cedrus atlantica, and Pseudotsuga menziesii species grown in Düzce, a location reported as one of the top 5 cities having the most polluted air in Europe by the World Air Pollution Report. The changes in Sr concentration over the last 40 years were evaluated by species, organ, direction, and age range. The results indicate that Sr pollution significantly increased due to traffic sources. This study also showed that the transfer of Sr within the wood is limited in all the species under consideration; hence, all these species can be used in monitoring the changes in Sr pollution. The most suitable species for reducing Sr pollution were Cupressus arizonica and Picea orientalis, which have the highest capacity to accumulate the most Sr in their wood.

Prediction of Optimum Veneer Drying Parameters with Artifi cial Neural Networks for Production of Plywood with High Mechanical Properties

Veneer drying is the manufacturing process in the plywood industry that most affects energy consumption and panel properties such as bonding and bending. Therefore, the veneer drying temperature and moisture content should be accurately adjusted. Moreover, the determination of veneer thermal conductivity is as important as these two parameters and the thermal conductivity values should also be specifi ed when forming the drying programs. This study aimed to predict the optimum values of the veneer drying temperatures, moisture content and thermal conductivity, which gave the best mechanical properties, by artifi cial neural network (ANN) analysis. Poplar (Populus deltoidesI-77/51) and spruce (Picea orientalis L.) veneers and urea formaldehyde (UF) resin were used in the production of plywood. The thermal conductivity of veneer and the bonding, bending strength and elasticity modulus of the panels were tested by the relevant standards. The most accurate and reliable prediction models were obtained by analyzing the experimental data with ANN. The optimum veneer drying temperature, moisture content and thermal conductivity values that gave the best values for all three mechanical properties were 149 °C, 6.2 % and 0.02668 W/mK for poplar and 116 °C, 4.4 % and 0.02534 W/mK for spruce.

Influence of thermal pretreatments on dimensional change and humidity sensitivity of densified spruce and poplar wood

The effect of thermal pretreatments on the dimensional change and humidity sensitivity of densified spruce (Picea orientalis) and poplar (Populus nigra) wood were investigated. A thermal pretreatment was applied on the wood specimens at 140 °C, 160 °C, 180 °C, and 200 °C for 7 h and 9 h. Wood specimens were then compressed at ratios of 20 % and 40 % at a temperature of 150 °C. The results showed that spring-back and thickness swelling increased in all specimens (thermally pre-treated and untreated) depending on the increase in compression ratio. However, set-recovery was determined higher at 20 % compression ratio. The equilibrium moisture content values ​​of untreated specimens and thermally pre-treated specimens at low temperatures (140 ºC and 160 ºC) were found lower than uncompressed specimens. The impact of compression ratio on equilibrium moisture content was not clear. Thermal pretreatments significantly affected the dimensional stability and hygroscopicity of densified specimens (especially poplar wood). Depending on the increase in thermal pretreatment temperature and duration, spring-back, set-recovery and thickness swelling in wood specimens decreased up to 31 %, 67 % and 62 %, respectively. In addition, equilibrium moisture content and water absorption decreased with the increase in thermal pretreatment temperature and duration. Moreover, the thermal treatment temperature was more important than duration on the investigated properties.