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Cedrus deodara is an important tree species and needs to be a plantation in a large area for the present scenario of climate change mitigation and global warming. For large-scale afforestation and reforestation activity, suitable seed sources are needed to produce quality planting stock. Therefore, the present study was conducted to understand the amount and patterns of variation in morphometric characteristics of Cedrus deodara cones, seeds, and their germination. Cone of Cedrus deodara was collected from ten different provenances of Western Himalaya. Signi$cant variation (p < .05) was recorded for different morphological characteristics of cones, seeds, and seedlings among different provenances. Cone weight, seed moisture content, and seed weight were the most variable characters among the studied traits. On average, cone length, cone weight, and cone diameter were 8.85 cm, 104.59 g, and 6.39 cm, respectively. While the seed length, seed width, and seed thickness were 1.20, 0.46, and 0.27 cm, the seed weight was 9.70 g, respectively. The maximum (92.10%) germination was recorded at 15°C. Most of the cone and seed traits showed high heritability with genetic gain, indicating that strong genetic control should be considerable for the further improvement in Cedrus deodara. The variability appeared to be naturally structured and would be mainly hereditarily controlled. On the basis of cone morphology, seed traits, and seed germination, Kandolia, Dhanaulti, and Dandachalli were the best provenances. The results of the present study help collect quality seeds for producing the quality planting stock for these tree crops for plantations in Uttarakhand, Himalaya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Statistical evaluation applied to geochemical data of upland lake sediments and their catchment basins rocks from Serra dos Carajás was used to identify geochemical signatures associated with underlying processes, sediment provenances, and source-sink relationship. The lakes are Violão, Amendoim and Três Irmãs - TI1, TI2 and TI3. A centred log-ratio transformation (clr) was used prior to multivariate analyses in order to eliminate closure issues in compositional data. Due to the similarity between δ15N values and organic sources (mainly from C3 plants), the three lakes were clustered together. Violão Lake receives largest organic contribution from autochthonous sources, such as siliceous sponge spicules and algae, except for it shallower portion (WNW extension), which is more similar to TI2, having low δ15N values that are similar to the isotopic signature of upland swamps. The upper continental crust (UCC) normalization pattern shows that sediments are mainly enriched in Fe, P and Se, which is closely related to the catchment lithology. The distribution of elements in TI2 is significantly different from the other lakes, because it is dominated by organic carbon, while the other lakes are a mix of detritus and organic carbon. Factor Analysis (FA) using clr-transformed data distinguishes several geochemical assemblages in the sediments, with the major detritic groups being similar to catchment basin laterites: the Ti-Zr-Hf-Nb-Y-HREEs group corresponds to resistant minerals which remained stable during lateritization; the LREEs group reflects mobilization and reprecipitation by REE bearing minerals; and the Al-V-Cr-Sc association reflects metavolcanic rock. The Fe-P-Mo-As-Zn cluster in the sediments is attributed to Fe-oxyhydroxide precipitation, while TOC-SO 3 -Hg-Se group is controlled by organic matter. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) further indicates that detritic lake sediments are not directly derived from the parent rocks, but from weathered crusts, mainly ferruginous laterites and soils, which is consistent with their elements ratios. Highlights • Geochemical interpretation of Carajás upland lakes is aided by multivariate statistical analysis. • PCA performed on clr transformed data significantly eliminates closure issues. • Clr-transformed PCA classified efficiently the multi-element geochemical signature in lake sediments. • Lake sediment geochemical signature is due to catchment basin lithology and lateritization. • Clr-transformed PCA identified the major provenance of lake sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • We quantified realised genetic gain for Norway spruce. • Six improved groups were studied in four experiments in central Sweden. • The differences in single tree properties and areal production were studied. • All genetically improved groups produced higher volumes than unimproved local provenances. • The differences were greater for areal production than for early measured height. Abstract Six groups of Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst) plants with varying levels of genetic gain and unimproved local provenances were compared in four realised gain trials at four sites in central Sweden. The groups were planted separately in experimental plots and compared in terms of survival rate and height 4 years after planting, as well as survival rate, height, diameter and areal volume production 13–16 years after planting. The genetically improved groups all produced higher volumes than the unimproved local provenances, and the clonal bulk of 23 full-sib families' volume production per unit area was 56% higher than that of local provenances. The genetic groups followed expected levels of genetic gain, except for individual clones (which varied substantially in performance) and full-sib families. There were greater relative differences between local provenances and genetic groups in areal volume production 13–16 years after planting than in height at 4 years after planting. The results confirm that growth of improved genetic groups is largely consistent with expected values of realized genetic gain. They also indicate that clonal mixes rather than one or a few clones should be deployed in clonal forestry. The comparison of early measured height with areal production showed that early height measurements are good indicators of realized genetic gain and differences in areal production are greater than early differences in height. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic parameters, performance of provenances, and genotype by environment interaction (G × E) for diameter at breast height (DBH), survival, and modulus of elasticity of time-of-flight (MOEtof) (an indirect measure of stiffness), were investigated in six lodgepole pine progeny trials, aged 33-36 years, within three breeding zones in northern Sweden. Provenances of Yukon origin had the highest growth but lowest stiffness at higher latitude, while those of British Columbia (BC) origin grew faster at lower latitudes and had highest stiffness within zone 5. Combined-site heritability estimates ranged from 0.09 to 0.19 for DBH, from 0.19 to 0.27 for MOEtof, and from 0.13 to 0.26 for survival. Type-B genetic correlations () were generally high for all studied traits, except for DBH and survival in zone 4 ( = 0.74 and 0.40, respectively) and for MOEtof in zone 2 ( = 0.46). On the basis of the results obtained in this study, G × E for stiffness in northern Sweden and unfavourable growth-stiffness genetic correlation should be considered in selective breeding programmes of lodgepole pine. To achieve the highest stiffness for lodgepole pine, provenances of Yukon origin should be planted at lower latitudes and those of BC origin should be planted at lower elevations within the tested breeding zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The ability of tree species to track their climatic niche at rates comparable to global warming is of concern, particularly if they are constrained by local adaptation. If a species is locally adapted at its range margin, it could be beneficial for range expansion because it ensures that the genotypes colonizing new areas are the fittest, given that environmental conditions are more similar to the current ones. In trees, local adaptation can slow range expansion when climate change happens much faster than their ability to migrate. Location: Québec, Canada. Time period: 2013–2015. Major taxa studied: Trees. Methods: We investigate experimentally a series of factors thought to constrain the seedling phase at the leading edge of the distribution of a dominant tree species, sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marshall.). We established a seed transplant experiment using six provenances, representing the latitudinal species range, and transplanted them to 12 sites within, at and beyond the current northern species range margin. Results: At present, northern provenances provide the best opportunity for establishment beyond the current range, where climatic conditions are more similar than those of the warmer central or southern portions of the species range. Establishment was highest within the species range, but survival rates were comparable to those at the range margin and beyond, regardless of provenance. We also found that the local climate was the most influential factor for early seedling establishment and survival; however, a lack of suitable microsites also significantly constrained recruitment. Main conclusions: Our study highlights the complex interaction between provenance, climate and microsite conditions that is required to ensure successful seedling recruitment. Although sugar maple is currently displaying evidence for local adaptation to facilitate range shifts, it could risk maladaptation in the future if the local climate warms beyond a threshold required to ensure seed germination and a lack of favourable microsite conditions beyond the range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Although many studies have been performed on the mud wedge in the distal part of the Yellow River subaqueous delta, little is known about the southwestern terminus of the Yellow River mud wedge in the inner shelf of the Southern Yellow Sea (SYS). We use ∼3000 km of high-resolution subbottom seismic profiles, 147 surficial sediment samples, as well as 30 fluvial sediment samples to study sediment textures, provenance and structures in the inner shelf in western SYS. Our results show that sediment in the inner shelf south of Shandong Peninsula can be categorized into multiple types, including sand, silt, sandy silt, muddy sand, mud, gravel mud and others. About 60% of the study area is covered by silt and sandy silt. Assuming a finer texture of sediment from Yellow River and a relatively coarser one for sediment from local small rivers, our results reveal at least two contrasting sediment sources. East of the Laoshantou Headland, on the southern coast of the peninsula, the sediment is mainly from the Yellow River. Holocene sediment deposition reaches about 15 m thickness in water depths of ∼10 m. The homogeneous surficial sediment pattern is mainly controlled by the Yellow Sea Coastal Current, the Yellow Sea Warm Current, as well as local currents. However, west of Laoshantou Headland, sediment from local small rivers draining the peninsula plays a more important role. Over there the Holocene mud wedge is no more than 5-m thick, and is re-worked by strong tides and longshore currents. The seaward extension of Laoshantou Headland the southern peninsula seems to act as an effective sediment trap, aiding the accumulation of sediment carried by longshore currents. This new study delineates the western boundary of Yellow River subaqueous delta and helps better quantify sediment budget in the Yellow Sea. It also shed light on the sedimentation interplay of large rivers with local small rivers on many epicontinental shelves and passive margins around the world. Highlights • Delineates the southwestern terminus of the Yellow River mud wedge in the inner shelf of the South Yellow Sea. • Headland plays an important role in trapping sediment accumulation and forming the elongated clinoform. • Shed light on the sedimentation interplay of large rivers with local small rivers on many epicontinental shelves and passive margins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied phenotypic variation among provenances of Liriodendron at near-mature stage to identify those with the most desirable traits for production. To provide a scientific basis for the selection of superior provenances of Liriodendron, a provenance trial was established with five provenances of Liriodendron tulipifera and 15 provenances of Liriodendron chinense. This trial was established in 1992 at the Subtropical Experimental Center in the Chinese Academy of Forestry. The growth, stem-form qualities, and wood basic density of each provenance were investigated in December 2015. The findings indicated that the growth traits of Liriodendron possess significant genetic differences in terms of interaction between provenance and site. Analysis of growth related traits revealed that the choice of fast-growing provenances might improve trunk straightness but decrease the wood basic density. Ring width variance analysis showed that the variation coefficients increased for ring width of four 5-year ring segments between provenances, but the width decreased from pith to cambium, which suggested genetic improvement of wood productivity and density could be realized by provenance selection. Monan (MN) of Guizhou Province and Fuyang (FY) of Zhejiang Province were selected as two high-yield and high-quality provenances based on the analysis of radial variation patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To alleviate the combined effects of water and heat stress prevailing in drylands, the choice and introduction of appropriate plant species to these conditions is essential for the success of planting in rehabilitation projects. The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is a vigorous plant, admirably adapted to dry climates, with indisputable physiological and ecological characteristics that make of this tree an ideal plant to fight against erosion and desertification process, which seriously threaten arid lands. However, the geographical origin of seeds/seedlings represents a determining factor. In this context, we investigated the morphological responses of growth in two provenances of argan, the provenance of Tindouf ‘PT’ from Algeria and that of Agadir ‘PA’ from Morocco; under water stress conditions. The experiment attempts to evaluate the level of drought tolerance of these two provenances for selecting the planting material that copes and adapts better to hot arid lands. Argan seedlings of both provenances (PA and PT) were submitted to a water stress gradient (75, 40, 20, and 10% of field capacity), then morphological parameters (shoot height, number of leaves, number of spines, root collar diameter, length of taproot) were measured after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of growth. All variables of morphological growth varied significantly (P < 0.001) between water stress levels, seed geographical provenances and seedling growth ages. The overall of results concerning morphological parameters indicated that the increase of water stress induced in both argan provenances: a decrease in shoot height associated with an increase in length of taproot that resulted in the reduction of leaf numbers and radial growth but the increase the number of spines. The argan plantlets of Agadir have completely failed to tolerate water stress of 10% FC. Under water stress (40, 20, 10% FC), argan seedlings of Tindouf revealed higher growth results than those of Agadir. PT seedlings offset the water deficit by root elongation to ensure growth of the various components of the aerial part. PT seedlings were more resilient to drought stress as compared to those of PA. The highest growth results were obtained with 40% FC in PT seedlings, and with 75% FC among PA seedlings. It is recommended to use the PT seeds in planting projects under drought conditions, while PA seeds are more suitable under conditions of non-water deficit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper considers the earliest metalwork hoards in Scotland, most of which have been found at conspicuous points in the landscape. The treatment of individual objects suggests that they had been carefully selected before they were deposited. Fieldwork, combined with computer reconstruction, shows that half the collections with adequate provenances come from places with direct views of the rising and setting sun at the solstices. The main emphasis seems to have been on midwinter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field test with 26 provenances of subalpine fir and corkbark fir was established at three sites in Denmark and one site in Iceland in 1999. Survival, growth and Christmas tree quality were assessed after 10 growing seasons in Denmark and 12 in Iceland. Provenances showed significant differences for all measured traits. The western-most subalpine fir provenances from Washington state and British Columbia showed the overall best results in Denmark with the highest survival (after 15 years), fastest growth in height and highest Christmas tree quality and profitability as well as both good postharvest needle retention and high resistance to pests. The corkbark fir provenances also showed high Christmas tree quality and the lowest frequency of fork formation, but corkbark fir provenances also exhibited the poorest postharvest needle retention. In Iceland, the corkbark fir provenances generally showed the highest survival rate and Christmas tree quality. The White River provenance from British Columbia is recommended for use in Denmark. The Mount Taylor provenance from the Cibola National Forest in New Mexico is recommended for use in Iceland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Norway spruce (Picea abies) is by far the most important timber species in Europe, but its outstanding role in future forests is jeopardized by its high sensitivity to drought. We analyzed drought response of Norway spruce at the warmest fringe of its natural range. Based on a 35-year old provenance experiment we tested for genetic variation among and within seed provenances across consecutively occurring strong drought events using dendroclimatic time series. Moreover, we tested for associations between ≈1,700 variable SNPs and traits related to drought response, wood characteristics and climategrowth relationships. We found significant adaptive genetic variation among provenances originating from the species' Alpine, Central and Southeastern European range. Genetic variation between individuals varied significantly among provenances explaining up to 44% of the phenotypic variation in drought response. Varying phenotypic correlations between drought response and wood traits confirmed differences in selection intensity among seed provenances. Significant associations were found between 29 SNPs and traits related to drought, climate-growth relationships and wood properties which explained between 11 and 43% of trait variation, though 12 of them were due to single individuals having extreme phenotypes of the respective trait. The majority of these SNPs are located within exons of genes and the most important ones are preferentially expressed in cambium and xylem expansion layers. Phenotype-genotype associations were stronger if only provenances with significant quantitative genetic variation in drought response were considered. The present study confirms the high adaptive variation of Norway spruce in Central and Southeastern Europe and demonstrates how quantitative genetic, dendroclimatic and genomic data can be linked to understand the genetic basis of adaptation to climate extremes in trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Plant characteristics in different provenances within a single species may vary in response to climate change, which might alter soil microbial communities and ecosystem functions. We conducted a glasshouse experiment and grew seedlings of three provenances (temperate, subtropical and tropical origins) of a tree species (i.e., Eucalyptus tereticornis) at different growth temperatures (18, 21.5, 25, 28.5, 32 and 35.5°C) for 54 days. At the end of the experiment, bacterial and fungal community composition, diversity and abundance were characterized. Measured soil functions included surrogates of microbial respiration, enzyme activities and nutrient cycling. Using Permutation multivariate analysis of variance (PerMANOVA) and network analysis, we found that the identity of tree provenances regulated both structure and function of soil microbiomes. In some cases, tree provenances substantially affected the response of microbial communities to the temperature treatments. For example, we found significant interactions of temperature and tree provenance on bacterial community and relative abundances of Chloroflexi and Zygomycota, and inorganic nitrogen. Microbial abundance was altered in response to increasing temperature, but was not affected by tree provenances. Our study provides novel evidence that even a small variation in biotic components (i.e., intraspecies tree variation) can significantly influence the response of soil microbial community composition and specific soil functions to global warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current climate changes can led to a decline of local beech populations fully adapted to previous climate conditions. In this context, the issue of variation in adaptive traits becomes important. A field experiment with 18-year-old trees of Fagus sylvatica L. was conducted on provenance plot located in Tále (Central Slovakia), where physiological responses of five beech provenances originating from contrasting sites along an altitudinal gradient from 55 to 1100 m a.s.l. across the range of the natural beech distribution were studied. Stomatal characteristics, parameters of chlorophyll a fluorescence and gas exchange parameters were determined. Overall, we observed a significant increase in physiological performance at the leaf level with increasing altitude of origin. Provenances from the higher altitudes showed higher CO2 assimilation rate, stomatal density, potential conductance indices and photochemical efficiency, and lower capability for dissipation of energy by heat. A similar pattern of response was recorded in relation to the precipitation regime of sites of origin. Moreover, in the context of the temperature regime, several negative trends were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coniferous forest tree Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) is native to the pacific North America, and is increasingly planted in temperate regions worldwide. Nitrogen (N) metabolism is of great importance for growth, resistance and resilience of trees. In the present study, foliar N metabolism of adult trees of three coastal and one interior provenance of Douglas-fir grown at two common gardens in southwestern Germany (Wiesloch, W; Schluchsee, S) were characterized in two subsequent years. Both the native North American habitats of the seed sources and the common garden sites in Germany differ in climate conditions. Total and mineral soil N as well as soil water content were higher in S compared to W. We hypothesized that i) provenances differ constitutively in N pool sizes and composition, ii) N pools are affected by environmental conditions, and iii) that effects of environmental factors on N pools differ among interior and coastal provenances. Soil water content strongly affected the concentrations of total N, soluble protein, total amino acids (TAA), arginine and glutamate. Foliar concentrations of total N, soluble protein, structural N and TAA of trees grown at W were much higher than in trees at S. Provenance effects were small but significant for total N and soluble protein content (interior provenance showed lowest concentrations), as well as arginine, asparagine and glutamate. Our data suggest that needle N status of adult Douglas-fir is independent from soil N availability and that low soil water availability induces a re-allocation of N from structural N to metabolic N pools. Small provenance effects on N pools suggest that local adaptation of Douglas-fir is not dominated by N conditions at the native habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phenylpropenoid glycosides rosavin, rosarin, rosin summarised as ‘total rosavins’ are quality indicators of Rhodiola rosea L. Here we report the systematic quantification of these glycosides and the aglycon cinnamyl alcohol in various provenances cultivated homogenously at 1580 m altitude. (I) We examined rhizomes versus roots in cultivation year 9 (20 provenances). Extracts (70% ethanol) contained 0.5–4.3 mg/mL (rhizomes) and 0.4–2.5 mg/mL (roots) total rosavins. The rosavin/cinnamyl alcohol ratio (average rhizomes 8.1:1, roots 6.2:1), was more influenced by plant origin than plant part. We additionally analysed salidroside including its aglycon tyrosol. The rosavins/salidroside ratios (including aglycons) of 6.4:1 (rhizome) and 5.5:1 (root) indicated authentic R. rosea independent of plant part and origin. (II) Rhizomes extracts (8 provenances) from various dates during years 6 and 7 contained 0.4–4.8 mg/mL total rosavins corresponding to 0.2–3.0% in the dry drug. Age (decreasing trend) and provenance impact were superposed by seasonal variation with a phenylpropenoid peak in spring. Rosavin/cinnamyl alcohol ratios in North European plants were 3–8:1, for Alpine/Pyrenean plants 9–14:1. (III) Compared to our previous dataset from cultivation in South England, on average, there was no major difference between phenylpropenoid values from cultivation at 65 m and 1580 m apart from moderately more cinnamyl alcohol at higher altitude. As per provenance, absolute values were site dependent but phenylpropenoid glycoside/aglycon ratios consistent. In conclusion, this is the first systematic investigation for a high altitude cultivation of R. rosea demonstrating the major extent plant part, season and age influence absolute phenylpropenoid values. In contrary, relative phenolic compound profiles are mostly origin-determined, independent of cultivation conditions and site, and could be used for authentication in quality control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the utility of 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratio for determining the geographical provenance of vegetables, we compared 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios and Sr concentrations in five vegetable species grown in Japan and China, and we also examined the relationships between 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios in vegetables, the soil-exchangeable pool, irrigation water, and fertilizer from 20 Japanese agricultural areas. The vegetable 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios in Japan were similar for all species within a given agricultural area, but tended to be low in northeast Japan and high in southwest Japan. The median 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratio in Japanese vegetables was similar to that in fertilizer, suggesting that in addition to rock-derived Sr, vegetables contain Sr derived from fertilizers. In most cases, the 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios for the Japanese and Chinese vegetables differed by approximately 0.710. Linear discriminant analysis using both 87 Sr/ 86 Sr and the Sr concentration allowed more accurate discrimination between vegetables from the two countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acacia mangium Willdenow and Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunningham ex Bentham and their hybrid have become important planting species in Malaysia. Due to their high demand and consumption, development of high quality planting materials is desired. Conventional breeding of Acacia Miller is slow but the utilization of marker-assisted selection breeding can expedite the breeding process. Markers associated with quantitative trait loci (QTLs) required pedigreed populations whereas association mapping can be used directly on diverse germplasm. This study was conducted to screen provenances of A. mangium and A. auriculiformis of different geographical origins for their performance under the Malaysian environment. A. mangium exhibited superior traits compared to A. auriculiformis. More trait variation was observed within and between provenances of A. auriculiformis. Provenances from Queensland (QLD) were superior to those from Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Northern Territory. The best performing provenance with all three superior traits was from Claude River QTL of A. mangium and the worst was Bensbach Western Province, PNG belonging to A. auriculiformis. For individual traits like DBH, Morehead, PNG was superior. For plant height, Morehead, PNG was the superior provenance for A. mangium and Morehead River, QLD was from A. auriculiformis. For stem straightness the A. auriculiformis provenance Jardines Garden, QTL was superior to West of Morehead (PNG) for A. mangium. Multivariate analysis grouped provenances together based on similar traits and genetic similarity. These provenances can be used for seed families which can be treated as a homogeneous population for association mapping or for the development of segregating hybrid populations for Acacia breeding. For the purpose of utilization, provenances of A. mangium can be used for sawn timber. For fuelwood and charcoal industries, A. auriculiformis provenances should be preferred by selecting multi-stemmed trees. The most variable provenances with superior phenotypic traits can be integrated with the genotypic data e.g. single nucleotide polymorphism markers for association mapping to identify quantitative trait loci for marker-assisted breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Including population genetic aspects into the selection of planting material within the framework of conservation and restoration measures is of vital importance for the long-term persistence of populations. This is especially true facing climate change since genetic diversity and the spread of potentially beneficial alleles are important for the adaptability of populations. Therefore, knowledge about genetic variability within and between populations is a critical aspect when determining provenance regions. In our study, we investigated the population genetic structure of a widespread, insect-pollinated and mainly bird-dispersed shrub species, Frangula alnus, on the basis of seven microsatellites and two chloroplast DNA markers throughout Germany. The aim was to determine the spatial, temporal and ecological processes genetically structuring populations to critically revise existing provenance regions. Therefore, we conducted analyses on different spatial scales (country-wide, regional and local) using the two different marker sets in addition to environmental variables. We detected distinct patterns on all spatial scales which indicated influences of historic recolonization processes, regional differences of seed dispersal across the landscape, as well as small-scale spatial genetic structures attributable to local dispersal processes. No relation of underlying environmental gradients such as temperature or precipitation and genetic patterns was found. We conclude that different aspects of historic and more recent gene flow shape population genetic structures and that a thorough analysis on a variety of spatial, temporal and environmental scales is necessary to appropriately select planting material for conservation and restoration measures. Correspondingly, management advice regarding provenance delineations will be provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germination characteristics are important for understanding how species cope with environmental variation. The aims of this work were to analyze the effect of different temperatures (25 and 32 °C), water potentials (0, −0.2, −0.4, and −0.6 MPa), and light conditions (light vs. darkness) on the germination of five populations of the cactus Gymnocalycium monvillei (Lem.) Britton & Rose along its entire altitudinal distribution. The experiments to assess the effects of temperature, water potential, and light conditions were performed in germination chambers, and total germination (%) and mean germination time ( T50) were recorded. Germination decreased in provenances from higher to lower altitudes, and the effect was very pronounced at temperatures of 32 °C. For all of the altitudinal provenances, germination decreased with lower water potential, with this effect being more pronounced at 32 °C. On the other hand, provenances at lower altitudes were less affected by lower water potentials than higher provenances. Provenances at all altitudes showed very low germination under dark conditions. T50 did not vary among altitudinal provenances at a temperature of 25 °C, but at 32 °C germination was slower at intermediate altitudes. Our results show that germination characteristics differ considerably among altitudinal provenances and seem to be important in determining the capacity of the species to inhabit such a broad gradient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The timing of foliar budburst is an important component of the fitness of trees. Adaptation of budburst to local temperatures and phenotypic plasticity in the date of budburst to changes in temperature can therefore be expected. In this study, we analysed provenance trials of European beech ( Fagus sylvatica L.) established over a wide geographic and climatic range in Europe. The analysis was based on a phenological model that represents the key processes at budburst phenology of temperate- and boreal zone deciduous trees. We conclude that adaptive differences exist between provenances in the critical chilling- and forcing requirements triggering budburst. Moreover, it is likely that these provenances show a plastic response to local environmental conditions for these two factors. Chilling- and forcing temperature requirements are key traits determining a tree’s response of the date of foliar budburst to temperature. We infer from our results that trees would be able to adjust this response when climatic conditions change. Implications for climate change assessment studies and suggestions to incorporate this second order phenotypic plasticity in phenological models are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tolerance to metal stress was studied in seedlings of three pine species (Pinus radiata, P. pinaster and P. canariensis) under controlled ex vitro conditions. Mature female cones were randomly collected at two sites in Chile (Llico and Huilquilemu) characterized by contrasting environmental conditions. Oneyear- old pine seedlings were immersed in trays with solutions of CuSO4 (300 mM) or AlCl3 (100 mM), and their survival, growth rate and decay symptoms were recorded for 60 days. Results showed large differences among provenances in seedling tolerance to CuSO4 and AlCl3 in terms of survival and growth. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant association (p <0.0001) between the first canonical function and the following variables: provenance, species, metal stress and growing rate, as well as between the second canoni - cal function and provenance, species, metal stress and symptomatology, indicating a high degree of genotype-environment interaction. Moreover, the activity of POX, SOD and CAT enzymes was determined 60 days after the beginning of the experiment in the Llico provenance seedlings. P. pinaster showed the highest activity level for all the enzymes considered, while P. canariensis and P. radiata had intermediate and lowest values, respectively. Differential gene expression among pine seedlings under metal stress with CuSO4 for two genes (Cu-Zn-superoxide dismutase and RuBisCo) confirmed P. pinaster as the most tolerant species to CuSO4 treatment. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that abiotic stress in the maternal environment can induce a "transgenerational plasticity" which could affect progeny performances. The influence of different genetic backgrounds on the tolerance to heavy metals in pine seedlings is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, especially droughts, arising from on-going climate changes negatively affect productivity and stability of forest ecosystems. Understanding species responses and suitable ecotypes that are able of adapting to new environmental conditions is increasingly important. The objective of this study was to quantify the relationships between the inter-annual stem circumference increase (SCI) of five European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) provenances and weather variability during 2012-2014 in a provenance trial located in central Slovakia. SCIs were extracted on daily and weekly scale from hourly data of circumference changes. To detect the main environmental factors influencing SCI seasonal dynamics, intra-seasonal moving correlation functions were calculated. All five provenances responded synchronously to weather conditions, with high correlations among them during the growing season on both daily and weekly scale. The photoperiod exhibited a synchronizing effect on the seasonal peak of SCI as a sign of tree adaptation to long-term seasonal variations in climate. Temperature was the most significant factor influencing SCI dynamics at the beginning of the season. During the summer months, a precipitation deficit, heat waves and the consequently decreased soil water potential significantly affected the SCI of young beech trees, despite the fact that the provenance plot was situated in an area of optimum beech growth. Not only the severity and duration were important but also the timing of drought within a season. Within all seasons, the lowest SCI values were recorded for the provenance from the lowest altitude and the most oceanic climate (northern Germany). A comparison of daily and weekly SCI with first derivatives of growth functions indicated that SCIs were closely related to theoretical incremental processes, especially on a weekly scale. In young beech trees, SCI seemed to represent an appropriate proxy for studying intra-seasonal incremental processes. A newly designed SASB (self adjusting sharp beginning) function fit these processes better than the Gompertz function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cultivation of grapevines for winemaking, known as viticulture, is widely cited as a climate-sensitive agricultural system that has been used as an indicator of both historic and contemporary climate change. Numerous studies have questioned the viability of major viticulture regions under future climate projections. We review the methods used to study the impacts of climate change on viticulture in the light of what is known about the effects of climate and weather on the yields and quality of vineyard harvests. Many potential impacts of climate change on viticulture, particularly those associated with a change in climate variability or seasonal weather patterns, are rarely captured. Key biophysical characteristics of viticulture are often unaccounted for, including the variability of grapevine phenology and the exploitation of microclimatic niches that permit successful cultivation under suboptimal macroclimatic conditions. We consider how these same biophysical characteristics permit a variety of strategies by which viticulture can adapt to changing climatic conditions. The ability to realize these strategies, however, is affected by uneven exposure to risks across the winemaking sector, and the evolving capacity for decision-making within and across organizational boundaries. The role grape provenance plays in shaping perceptions of wine value and quality illustrates how conflicts of interest influence decisions about adaptive strategies within the industry. We conclude by considering what lessons can be taken from viticulture for studies of climate change impacts and the capacity for adaptation in other agricultural and natural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Restoration efforts in the Mediterranean Basin have been changing from a silvicultural to an ecological restoration approach. Yet, to what extent the projects are guided by ecological restoration principles remains largely unknown. To analyse this issue, we built an on-line survey addressed to restoration practitioners. We analysed 36 restoration projects, mostly from drylands (86%). The projects used mainly soil from local sources. The need to comply with legislation was more important as a restoration motive for European Union (EU) than for non-EU countries, while public opinion and health had a greater importance in the latter. Non-EU countries relied more on non-native plant species than EU countries, thus deviating from ecological restoration guidelines. Nursery-grown plants used were mostly of local or regional provenance, whilst seeds were mostly of national provenance. Unexpected restoration results (e.g. inadequate biodiversity) were reported for 50% of the projects and restoration success was never evaluated in 22%. Long term evaluation (> 6 years) was only performed in 31% of cases, and based primarily on plant diversity and cover. The use of non-native species and species of exogenous provenances may: i) entail the loss of local genetic and functional trait diversity, critical to cope with drought, particularly under the predicted climate change scenarios, and ii) lead to unexpected competition with native species and/or negatively impact local biotic interactions. Absent or inappropriate monitoring may prevent the understanding of restoration trajectories, precluding adaptive management strategies, often crucial to create functional ecosystems able to provide ecosystem services. The overview of ecological restoration projects in the Mediterranean Basin revealed high variability among practices and highlighted the need for improved scientific assistance and information exchange, greater use of native species of local provenance, and more long-term monitoring and evaluation, including functional and ecosystem services' indicators, to improve and spread the practice of ecological restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) is one of the most important tree species in Europe. Due to substantial genetic diversity and phenotypic plasticity, beech has successfully adapted to different environments within its natural range. Provenance tests provide a good basis for studying within- and between-provenance genetic variation, due to homogeneous within-trial environmental conditions. The aim of the present study was to determine the within- and between-provenance genetic variability of certain leaf morphological traits among eleven beech provenances, grown in a common garden experiment. Univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test for differences among the studied beech provenances. Principal component analysis (PCA) allowed a complex assessment of the relationships among the provenances and an estimation of multivariate relations among the analyzed characters. The results of the study revealed the existence of substantial variability among provenances (p<0.001). Likewise, high genetic variability was observed at the intra-provenance level (p<0.001). The first three principal components (PC1-PC3) explained approximately 81% of the total variance among the European beech provenances tested. The highest contribution on PC1 corresponded to variables related to leaf size: leaf area (-0.882) and leaf width (-0.876). Based on the position of provenances on a PCA scatter plot, it could be assumed that European beech is characterized by a more ecotypic pattern of genetic variation rather than by clinal variation. Also, the presence of considerable genetic diversity within provenances will be important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selections were made within East European Norway spruce provenances in a provenance trial in northern Sweden and the selected clones were grafted in a Norwegian seed orchard mixed with plus trees of local origin. Full-sib families were generated by controlled crosses, producing sets of both inter- and intraprovenance families, which were planted in two short-term and in long-term trials. Measurements were made of frost damage, tree height, annual shoot growth rhythm and lammas shoots, and genetic parameters were estimated. The intraprovenance families from selected trees of East European origin showed the least variation in all traits and had the lowest heritability values. The variation among the intraprovenance families of local origin was large and with the highest estimates of heritability. The means of the provenance hybrid families were intermediate between those of the intraprovenance families. Strong genetic correlations were present between the growth rhythm traits measured, and in the family group of local origin also between these traits and frost damage, as well as for lammas shoots and height. The progenies of the selected parents of East European origin seem to be a desirable land race with less damage, lower percentage of lammas shoots and less variability in growth capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Huge investments are fed into repairing the world's degraded land, placing unparalleled pressure on delivering large quantities of quality seed. One of the most pressing issues is to identify which region to collect seed from and specifically whether local seed has a home-site advantage, particularly given the pressures of climate change. Recent theoretical recommendations have supported supplementing local seed with seed transferred in an arid-to-mesic direction to improve climate resilience of plantings. We tested this recommendation by establishing a reciprocal transplant trial in June 2010 of two seed provenances with contrasting aridity of Eucalyptus socialis, a tree widely used for restoration in Southern Australia. We recorded survival and height over 5 years. The years 2010 and 2011 were particularly wet years at both sites (>1.8 times historical rainfall), but the years 2012-2015 were consistent with long-term rainfall trends, with the arid site receiving 12-48% less annual rainfall than the mesic site. Only the arid provenance showed a home-site advantage, and only for height after the two wet years followed by the three drier years. Provenances had similar levels of survival at both sites and did equally well at the mesic site. These results only provide initial evidence to support the recommendation that restoration plantings aiming to incorporate climate resilience should include arid-to-mesic transferred seed. Further work is needed to fully explore potential confounding site-specific effects. Supplementing locally collected seeds with arid-to-mesic transferred seed could be important to increase climate resilience of plantings and demands further studies to explore its costs versus benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sapium sebiferumseeds from Huangshan, Wuhan, and Guiyang in China were studied to identify differences in their 1,000-seed mass and in concentrations of inhibitors of germination in the seed coat or endosperm extracted using methanol or acetone. Seed mass varied significantly in relation to origin, with the highest mass observed in seeds from Wuhan, followed by seeds from Huangshan and Guiyang. Extracts of seed coats or endosperm caused a marked inhibition of the germination index of cabbage seeds, but less inhibition of germination percentages. Endosperm extracts had a stronger inhibitory effect on cabbage seed germination than seed coat extracts. Inhibitor concentrations in whole seeds also varied with seed origin. Seeds from Wuhan exhibited a significantly higher level of inhibition than those from Guiyang or Huangshan, but no significant differences were observed between seeds from Guiyang and Huangshan. The efficacy of methanol or acetone extraction was also evaluated. For whole seeds from Huangshan and Guiyang, methanol was more effective than acetone, while acetone performed better than methanol for seeds from Wuhan. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Quantitative information on sediment provenance is needed for improved calibration and validation of process-based soil erosion models. However, sediment source data are often limited due to difficulties in directly measuring source contributions at a watershed scale. Our objectives in this study were to estimate sediment source contributions in a 15-km2 watershed using analytical solutions to a three end-member mixing model using multiple composite fingerprints and to compare the results with those estimated with a single radionuclide, 137Cs. Surface soil samples were collected from 23 croplands, 19 rangelands, and 26 gully banks in the watershed, and 31 geochemical elements were analyzed for each sample. The elements served as tracers and were screened using statistical tests and range checks. The mean concentrations of all the nonconflict tracer pairs were used in the mixing model to calculate source contributions for the three sources. Results showed that although source contributions were strongly influenced by topography and land use, gully or subsoil erosion was found to be the main source of fine sediment in most subwatersheds. This study demonstrates that estimated source contributions may vary substantially among different composite fingerprints and that the use of multiple composite fingerprints greatly improves accuracy while reducing uncertainty. The source contributions estimated using multiple composite fingerprints agreed well with those estimated with 137Cs, with a correlation coefficient of 0.69 for gully contributions. This good agreement increases our confidence in using the multiple composite fingerprint method to identify sediment provenance in relatively small watersheds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changing climate is expected to cause range shifts and reduced growth in Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) Karst). In order to mitigate these changes, genetic variation between populations can be utilized in selecting alternative tree origins that are better suited to the new conditions. The aim of this study was to examine the intraspecific differences in the climatic drivers of radial growth in Norway spruce. We used tree-ring data from seven Norway spruce provenance experiments in Finland, located in different climatic conditions and including a large variety of provenances. The annual ring-width indices were studied with hierarchical clustering, correlation analysis with climate variables, pointer year analysis and linear models to identify the provenance differences in growth variation and its climatic control, and compare them on a latitudinal gradient. The cluster analysis revealed patterns of provenance differences in growth variation: north European and central European provenances were grouped in separate clusters within sites, although with some exceptions. Largest provenance differences in climate-growth responses were found in relation to winter and spring temperatures. In the southern provenances warm winters were typically associated with faster growth whereas for the northern provenances the correlations varied from non-significant to negative. In addition, the pointer year analysis showed negative growth anomalies only in the southern provenances for years with exceptionally cold winters. These patterns may reflect the physiological differences between the provenances relating to, for example, cold tolerance and the timing of spring phenology. As the climate warming in Europe is predicted to be strongest during the winter months, acknowledging the intraspecific growth responses to climate in Norway spruce becomes increasingly important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change can negatively affect sensitive tree species, affecting their acclimation and adaptation strategies. A common garden experiment provides an opportunity to test whether responses of trees from different provenances are genetically driven and if this response is related to factors at the site of origin. We hypothesized that antioxidative defence systems and leaf mass area of Acacia melanoxylon R. Br. samples collected from different provenances will vary depending on local rainfall. Thirteen provenances of A. melanoxylon originating from different rainfall habitats (500-2000 mm) were grown for 5 years in a common garden. For 2 years, phyllode samples were collected during winter and summer, for measurements of leaf mass area and concentrations of glutathione and ascorbic acid. Leaf mass area varied between seasons, years and provenances of A. melanoxylon, and an increase was associated with decreasing rainfall at the site of origin. Ascorbic acid and glutathione concentrations varied between seasons, years (i.e., environmental factors) and among provenances of A. melanoxylon. In general, glutathione and ascorbic acid concentrations were higher in winter compared with summer. Ascorbic acid and glutathione were different among provenances, but this was not associated with rainfall at the site of origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land managers choose seed from a variety of provenances for restoration projects. By selecting seed of the local ecotype, managers can increase establishment in the short term and prevent the disruption of local adaptations and genetic swamping in the long term. However, local seed may be disadvantageous if populations are inbred or maladapted to managed restoration environments. Seed selection may be further confounded by propagation methods., Three dominant C4 grasses, Andropogon gerardii, Bouteloua curtipendula and Sorghastrum nutans, from three types of seed provenances (remnant, restoration and nursery) were planted as seeds and plugs into experimental plots at three established tallgrass prairie restorations in western Minnesota, USA. Using a common garden design, we tested whether (i) provenance and (ii) site of planting influence germination and first-season survival and growth both (iii) for seeds directly planted in the field and for transplants (plugs)., Seed provenance impacted germination and seedling survival in all cases, except S. nutans seeded directly in the field. Andropogon gerardii and B. curtipendula nursery seedlings were consistently taller than those of the other provenance types., When directly seeded, germination, survival and vigour differed among restoration sites; however, the results were species specific. Sorghastrum nutans germination varied among sites depending on provenance, indicating that this species may be particularly sensitive to environmental conditions., Germination was 3-12 times greater for plugs than for seeds directly planted in the field in summer, but mortality after planting in the field was low for both groups., Synthesis and applications. Provenance and restoration site had varying effects among species, indicating that the dominant C4 grasses used in this study ought not to be considered ecological equivalents. While we found little evidence of local adaptation, use of local remnant seeds diminishes the risk of spreading maladapted genotypes. Germination limited establishment when sowing seeds directly in summer. Supplemental use of plugs may increase species diversity in restorations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged summer droughts constitute to a major risk for the cultivation of beech in Central Europe. Therefore the identification of beech ecotypes that cope with growth conditions expected in future is highly desirable for forest practitioners. In a pot experiment under controlled conditions, the influence of longterm water deprivation on growth, root/shoot ratio, nitrogen (N)- and carbon (C) assimilation of seedlings from 6 European beech ( Fagus sylvatica ) provenances, originating from Central Europe (Germany), the Balkan Peninsula (Croatia), and south-east Europe (Bulgaria, Greece) were examined. Genetic diversity and relationships between the provenances were analysed by molecular markers such as nuclear EST microsatellites (EST-SSRs), SNPs and chloroplast microsatellites. Genetic diversity within provenances was high and highlighted close relationships between plants from Greece, Croatia and Germany, whereas beech from Bavaria (Germany) seemed to be admixed with genotypes from Bulgaria. Significant changes in fine root δ 13 C and C/N ratio as well as the intrinsic Water Use Efficiency (iWUE) demonstrate a better adaptability to future environmental conditions of beech ecotypes genetically related to the Greek beech population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the importance of using local provenance planting stock for woodland production, habitat conservation and restoration remains contentious, the concept is easy to understand, attractive and easy to 'sell'. With limited information about the extent and scale of adaptive variation in native trees, discussion about suitable seed sources often emphasises "local" in a very narrow sense or within political boundaries, rather than being based on sound evidence of the scale over which adaptation occurs. Concerns exist over the actual scale (magnitude and spatial scale) of adaptation in trees and the relative dangers of incorrect seed source or restricted seed collection, leading to the establishment of trees with restricted genetic diversity and limited adaptive potential. Tree provenance and progeny field trials in many parts of the world have shown the existence of genotype by environment interaction in many tree species, but have not necessarily looked at whether this is expressed as a home site advantage (i.e. whether provenance performance is unstable across sites, and there is better performance of a local seed source). Methods/design: This review will examine the evidence for local adaptation and its scale in a number of native tree species from different trial sites across the globe (e.g. tropical, Mediterranean, temperate). These trials have been measured and in some cases results published in a range of formats. The data have, however, usually been presented in the form of which provenances grow best at which sites. The review will examine existing data (published and unpublished) in the context of the scale of local adaptation, with the results being presented in two formats: (a) relating survival, performance of provenances (classified by seed zone/provenance region of origin) to seed zone/provenance region of the planting site; (b) plotting survival, performance provenances against the distance (Euclidean/ ecological) between the provenance and the trial site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean region is an area of special interest for conservation where the incidence of multiple drivers of global change is expected to increase. One of the factors predicted to change is soil-nutrient availability, an essential factor for plant growth. Thus, study of the effects of variation in this parameter is especially relevant in species with a circum-Mediterranean distribution, such as Arbutus unedo L., in which the different provenances grow in different habitats, which must differ in nutritional conditions. We aimed to determine the effect of provenance on plasticity, to establish whether structural and morphological traits differ in the level of plasticity and to assess how nutrients affect the photosynthetic light response. In a common garden experiment, we studied seven provenances from the circum-Mediterranean range of A. unedo and established two nutrient treatments (low and high nutrient availability). We measured physiological and structural traits in 1-year-old sapling and determined a phenotypic plasticity index (PPI) to quantify the level of plasticity, whereas the radiation effects were tested by construction and analysis of light response curves. Interestingly, provenance did not explain a significant amount of variance, but the plasticity was four times higher for the structural traits than for the physiological traits. Therefore, the plasticity to nutrient availability will not favour or prevent the expansion or contraction of the range of any of these provenances of A. unedo. Furthermore, the structural plasticity demonstrated the ability of the strawberry tree to optimize resource allocation, whereas the physiology remained stable, thus avoiding extra expenditure. The study findings also suggest that increased availability of nutrients would improve the performance of the species during the Mediterranean summer, characterized by high irradiance. These abilities will be key to the survival of saplings of the species under the future scenario of changes in nutrient availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of nine replicated provenance trials of silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) growing in Great Britain and Ireland are described. Five of the trials compare provenances from Scotland and the north of England measured after 10 or 11 years of growth; the remaining four trials compare provenances fromacross Great Britain, Ireland and the nearcontinent measured after 8 years of growth. In total, 64 provenances were tested. Survival was generally high across all sites with a mean of 79 per cent for the first five trials, and 89 per cent for the remaining four. The study found significant differences in mean height growth between trial sites and between provenances within each trial site. Although there was statistically significant site by provenance interaction, the better and poorer provenances were consistent across the range of sites tested. Mean height growth of the provenances under test was inversely correlated with latitude of origins, southern origins generally performing better. There was some evidence that further variation can be explained by incorporating details of longitude, accumulated temperature and potential moisture deficit for the origin. Elevation had little impact on explaining provenance performance. There was no evidence for the superior performance of provenances originating close to the trial site, other than for the southern-most trials. The relatively poor height growth of provenances from upland Scotland at even local trial sites suggests excessively conservative adaptation. The data suggest northernmovement of provenances byat least 2 degrees latitude or 200 kmwould bring the benefits of improved height growth and yet carry little risk of poorer survival under current climate conditions and could perhaps be extended further according to predictions of future climate warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, organic matter and nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg and Na) concentration were estimated at the forest floor and soil of Pinus nigra stands growing in the area of the Russian Monastery at Mount Athos and compared with three other Pinus nigra stands at higher altitudes in Northern Greece. Results show higher concentration of organic matter and nutrients at the forest floor of Pinus nigra stands on Mount Athos. Climate, low altitude and possibly the provenance of the species are the main reasons for the high accumulation of organic matter and nutrients found at the forest floor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction of Canadian provenances of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii Mir / Franco) in Serbia started with the first phase of testing their genetic potential by studying the effects of geographic characteristics of the locations from which the provenances originated (latitude, longitude and altitude) on the variability of the measured seedling properties. In the laboratory of the Institute for Forestry in Belgrade, germinability of Douglas-fir seeds was tested on the germination table ("Copenhagen table" or "Jakobson table") by the standards of ISTA. The analysis of variance and the regression and correlation analysis were applied in the study of the effects of geographic parameters of Canadian provenance locations on the variability of seedlings. The results show that there is a statistically significant effect of the provenance latitude on the length of seedlings. The effect of altitude is slightly smaller, while the longitude of the provenance location has the smallest effect on the studied property. The study of the variability of Douglas-fir provenances in their juvenile development, as seedlings, is essential for reliable planning and implementation of further tests within pilot projects on allochthonous sites in Serbia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species with transcontinental distribution or spread over wide geographical regions develop populations with growth traits genetically adapted to the local climate. The aim of this study was to investigate the ecotypic sensitivity of bud break, a strong adaptive trait, to a changing environment. Six phenological phases of bud break were monitored daily on black spruce [ Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP] seedlings submitted to different temperatures (12, 16 and 20 °C) and photoperiods (14, 18 and 22 h). Six provenances were tested in growth chambers, produced from seeds collected along the whole latitudinal range of the closed boreal forest in Quebec, Canada. Bud break lasted 13.3 days on average and occurred earlier in seedlings from colder sites. The annual temperature of the sites suitably tracked the clinal variation among ecotypes, providing a clear biological explanation for the environmental signal driving the adaptive divergence of populations to the local climate. Increasing temperature induced an earlier bud break according to a non-linear pattern with greater advancements observed between 12 and 16 °C. Photoperiod was significant, but sensitivity analysis indicated that its effect on bud break was marginal with respect to temperature. No interaction of provenance × treatment was observed, demonstrating an ecotypic convergence of the responses to both factors. Changes in the growing conditions could substantially modify the synchronization between bud phenology and climate, thus exposing the developing meristems of black spruce to frost damage. However, similar advancements of bud break could be expected in the different ecotypes subjected to warmer temperatures or longer day lengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate projections indicate that temperatures will increase by up to 4.5 °C in Europe by the end of this century, and that more extreme rainfall events and longer intervening dry periods will take place. Climate change will likely affect all phases of the life cycle of plants, but plant reproduction has been suggested to be especially sensitive. Here, using a combination of approaches (soil heaters and different provenances along a latitudinal gradient), we analyzed the regeneration from seeds of Acer platanoides and A. pseudoplatanus , two tree species considered, from a management point of view, of secondary relevance. We studied germination, seedling survival and growth in a full-factorial experiment including warming and changes in watering frequency. Both species responded to warming, watering frequency and seed provenance, with stronger (negative) effects of warming and provenance than of watering frequency. In general, the central provenances performed better than the northernmost and southernmost provenances. We also detected interactive effects between warming, watering frequency and/or seed provenance. Based on these results, both species are expected to show dissimilar responses to the changes in the studied climatic factors, but also the impacts of climate change on the different phases of plant regeneration may differ in direction and magnitude. In general increases in the precipitation, frequency will stimulate germination while warming will reduce survival and growth. Moreover, the frequent divergent responses of seedlings along the latitudinal gradient suggest that climate change will likely have heterogeneous impacts across Europe, with stronger impacts in the northern and southern parts of the species’ distribution ranges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace Pb is accumulated in the same isotopic ratio as it occurs in the source soil, and the isotopic composition of Pb could be used to reflect these sources and provide powerful indicators of the geographic origin of agricultural products. In this study, we developed a simple and valid method based on inductively coupled plasma dynamic reaction cell mass spectrometry (ICP-DRC-MS) for the determination of Pb isotope ratios to distinguish between the geographic origins of cigarettes. The cigarette digestion solutions were directly analysed by ICP-DRC-MS with pressuring a non-reactive gas Ne. In the DRC, Ne molecules collide with Pb ions and result in a 2.4-fold improvement in the average internal precision of Pb isotope ratios, which may be due to the improvement of the ion transmission or sensitivity (via collisional focusing) and the reduction of the plasma noise (via collisional energy damping). Under an optimum DRC rejection parameter q (RPq = 0.45), the main matrix components (K, Na, Ca, Mg, Al, Fe, etc.) originating from cigarettes were filtered out. Other important parameters such as detector dead time, dwell time per data acquisition and total integrated time per isotope were also optimized. Mass discrimination of the 208Pb/206Pb ratio in Ne DRC mode increased to 0.3% compared to the vented mode; this mass bias could be accurately corrected by using the NIST 981 Pb isotope standard solution. The accuracy and precision of this method were evaluated by using two cigarette reference materials (Oriental tobacco leaves CTA-OTL-1 and Virginia tobacco leaves CTA-VTL-2). The results of 208Pb/206Pb and 207Pb/206Pb were 2.0842 ± 0.0028 (2δ) and 0.8452 ± 0.0011 (2δ) for CTA-VTL-2, which were in agreement with the literature values (208Pb/206Pb = 2.0884 ± 0.0090 and 207Pb/206Pb = 0.8442 ± 0.0032), respectively. The Pb isotopic composition (208Pb/206Pb = 2.0812 ± 0.0028 and 207Pb/206Pb = 0.8460 ± 0.0018) of CTA-VTL-1 was reported for the first time in our study. The precision of Pb isotope ratios (208Pb/206Pb and 207Pb/206Pb) for the cigarette samples ranged from 0.05 to 0.12 % (N = 6). The proposed method has sufficient precision to distinguish between 91 cigarette brands that originated from four different geographic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising temperatures and more frequent and severe climatic extremes as a consequence of climate change are expected to affect growth and distribution of tree species that are adapted to current local conditions. Species distribution models predict a considerable loss of habitats for Pinus sylvestris. These models do not consider possible intraspecific differences in response to drought and warming that could buffer those impacts. We tested 10 European provenances of P. sylvestris, from the southwestern to the central European part of the species distribution, for their response to warming and to drought using a factorial design. In this common-garden experiment the air surrounding plants was heated directly to prevent excessive soil heating, and drought manipulation, using a rain-out shelter, permitted almost natural radiation, including high light stress. Plant responses were assessed as changes in phenology, growth increment and biomass allocation. Seedlings of P. sylvestris revealed a plastic response to drought by increased taproot length and root-shoot ratios. Strongest phenotypic plasticity of root growth was found for southwestern provenances, indicating a specific drought adaptation at the cost of overall low growth of aboveground structures even under non-drought conditions. Warming had a minor effect on growth but advanced phenological development and had a contrasting effect on bud biomass and diameter increment, depending on water availability. The intraspecific variation of P. sylvestris provenances could buffer climate change impacts, although additional factors such as the adaptation to other climatic extremes have to be considered before assisted migration could become a management option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquilaria malaccensis Lam. is one of the important species to produce resin-impregnated heartwood that is fragrant and highly valuable and traded internationally. A field experiment was laid out in RBD by using plants raised from 22 provenances collection of Aquilaria malacanssis from 3 states of North-Eastern hill regions of India. The genotypes viz., MDLY, NHJA and KHOW-1 recorded significantly higher values than the rest of the genotypes. Genotypic coefficients of variability were less than phenotypic coefficient of variability. Maximum variability was observed for volume index (18.98) followed by number of branches (16.78). Collar diameter (2.465) was recorded as minimum GCV value. Volume index (21.35) was registered maximum PCV followed by number of branches (17.85). High heritability was observed for plant height (0.966) followed by number of branches (0.883) and volume index (0.790). Minimum genetic advance was estimated for collar diameter (2.284%) and maximum for volume index (34.75%). Plant height was significant and positively correlated with volume and collar diameter at phenotypic and genotypic level. Collar diameter showed positive and highly significant correlation with volume index. The path analysis indicated that plant height and collar diameter has maximum direct effect on volume index. This study reveals that selection of better plants with higher variability and other juvenile growth traits of Aquilaria malaccansis provenances is suitable to grow in South Indian condition. And also these characters shoud be used as selection criterion for further improvement of yield in Aquilaria malaccansis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] This study aimed to investigate the variation in growth traits of Cupressus funebris in Chongqing Municipality, thus laying the foundation for further breeding and improvement of fine varieties. [Method] Growth traits of three fine stands of C. funebris in Qijiang, Pengshui and Youyang of Chongqing Municipality were investigated. [Result] The results showed that C. funebris stand in Pengshui exhibited the best growth performance, followed by C. funebris stand in Qijiang; C. funebris stand in Youyang exhibited the poorest growth performance. The average volume growth of C. funebris in Pengshui, Qijiang and Youyang was 0.14, 0.11 and 0.06 m3, respectively. Among different stands, variation coefficients of major growth traits were above 11.31%, and the maximum variation coefficient of the volume was 39.11%; within the stands, variation coefficients of plant height were basically the same (about 20%). The variation coefficient of diameter at breast height in Qijiang reached the maximum of 42.42%, followed by that in Youyang. The variation coefficients of volume and diameter at breast height were consistent; seed bearing coefficient (SBC) of C. funebris stand in Pengshui exhibited the maximum variation, which indicated that C. funebris stand in Pengshui was conducive to establishing seed stands and constructing seed orchard by using the selected stands. [Conclusion] It is necessary to conduct provenance selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, complex substances such as Mint (Mentha haplocalyx Briq.) samples from different growing regions in China were analyzed for phenolic compounds by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection and for the volatile aroma compounds by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. Chemometrics methods, e.g. principal component analysis, back-propagation artificial neural networks, and partial least squares discriminant analysis, were applied to resolve complex chromatographic profiles of Mint samples. A total of 49 aroma components and 23 phenolic compounds were identified in 79 Mint samples. Principal component analysis score plots from gas chromatography with mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection data sets showed a clear distinction among Mint from three different regions in China. Classification results showed that satisfactory performance of prediction ability for back-propagation artificial neural networks and partial least squares discriminant analysis. The major compounds that contributed to the discrimination were chlorogenic acid, unknown 3, kaempherol 7- O-rutinoside, salvianolic acid L, hesperidin, diosmetin, unknown 6 and pebrellin in Mint according to regression coefficients of the partial least squares discriminant analysis model. This study indicated that the proposed strategy could provide a simple and rapid technique to distinguish clearly complex profiles from samples such as Mint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper deals with the scientific identification of timbers utilised for the production of the sculptures preserved within the collection of the National Museum of the “Palazzo di Venezia” in Rome, Italy. After a brief description of the Museum and its sculpture collections, and, more specifically, the wooden sculpture collection which is the largest in Italy, the sampling of the artwork is discussed and described, together with the methodology used for the identification of wood species following the Italian standard UNI 11118:2004. The 12 identified timbers are listed together with their distribution within the cultural provenance of the sculptures. The discussion deals with the timber species utilised by the artists from the four cultural European provenances most represented within the collection: Italy, Alps, central-southern Germany and Lowlands around the Rhine delta. In the different Italian regions, several wood species were utilised and among them mostly poplar and limewood, while the alpine sculptors mostly used Swiss stone pine and the German artists, limewood. Finally in the Rhine delta, most of the sculptures were made out of deciduous oak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proper sourcing of seed for ecological restoration has never been straightforward, and it is becoming even more challenging and complex as the climate changes. For decades, restoration practitioners have subscribed to the 'local is best' tenet, even if the definition of 'local' was often widely divergent between projects. However, given our increasing ability to characterize habitats, and rapid climate change, we can no longer assume that locally sourced seeds are always the best or even an appropriate option. We discuss how plants are responding to changing climates through plasticity, adaptation, and migration, and how this may influence seed sourcing decisions. We recommend focusing on developing adequate supplies of 'workhorse' species, undertaking more focused collections in both 'bad' years and 'bad' sites to maximize the potential to be able to adapt to extreme conditions as well as overall genetic diversity, and increasing seed storage capacity to ensure we have seed available as we continue to conduct research to determine how best to deploy it in a changing climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]