Summary
This field study compared non-structural carbohydrate dynamics in tropical lianas and trees across two Amazonian sites differing in water availability. Contrary to expectations, liana infestation did not deplete NSC concentrations in host trees; however, lianas consistently showed higher stem NSC and starch concentrations than trees, suggesting the negative impacts of liana infestation on tree performance operate through mechanisms independent of carbon reserve depletion.
Regional applicability
This research focuses on tropical Amazonian forest ecosystems and is not directly applicable to United Kingdom farming or forestry systems. However, the findings on carbon allocation strategies and competitive dynamics between woody plants may inform understanding of woody plant ecology and climate resilience in any forest system.
Key measures
Stem xylem total non-structural carbohydrate concentration, starch concentration, soluble sugar concentration, canopy liana cover (>50% threshold)
Outcomes reported
The study quantified stem xylem non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) concentrations and fractions (starch and soluble sugars) in uninfested trees, liana-infested trees, and lianas across two Amazonian sites with contrasting moisture regimes. The research examined whether liana infestation depletes NSC storage in host trees and whether lianas and trees differ in NSC allocation strategies.
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