“…The vulnerability curves may be estimated either by directly measuring the loss of conductivity due to embolism formation or by quantifying the number or volume of embolized vessels (Venturas et al, ). The loss of conductivity is measured directly by using a hydraulic apparatus (Sperry, Donnelly, & Tyree, ) or Cavitron centrifuge (Cochard, ), whereas embolism is quantified through 2‐D or 3‐D images (Brodersen, McElrone, Choat, Matthews, & Shackel, ; Brodribb et al, ), acoustic emissions (Milburn, ), or airflow using the pneumatic method (Pereira et al, ). Although measuring xylem conductivity in intact plants would be desirable, the use of plant segments coupled with a hydraulic apparatus is subject to interferences such as the background flow (Hacke et al, ; Pereira & Ribeiro, ), wounding response, introduction of air bubbles (Espino & Schenk, ), ionic effect (Jansen et al, ), or potential refilling of embolized conduits (Melcher et al, ).…”