Soil physicochemical properties determine leaf traits but not size traits of moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis)

Abstract

Understanding the relationships among leaf and size traits and environment factors is essential for understanding and predicting the dynamics and ecophysiological processes of moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forests across their distribution range. Here, we evaluated these relationships at six sites within the moso bamboo distribution area in China. Specifically, we collected climate (mean annual temperature and precipitation) and soil physicochemical data from the sites, and we measured 14 leaf traits and 2 size traits (height and diameter) of both new and old moso bamboos and evaluated the relationship among environment factors, size traits and leaf traits. Climate factors had significant effects on the leaf traits of new bamboos but on those of old bamboos. For instance, mean annual precipitation (MAP) was the main driver of leaf-trait variation in new bamboos but not in old bamboos. Specifically, MAP was significantly negatively correlated with leaf mass (LM), leaf dry matter content, single leaf area (LA), and leaf width, but positively correlated with specific leaf area and the leaf length to width ratio. Moreover, potential evapotranspiration and solar radiation (SR) significantly affected the leaf nutrient traits of new bamboos. Mean annual temperature and actual evapotranspiration were significantly positively correlated with bamboo height. Bamboo diameter at breast height (DBH) had more explanatory power with respect to leaf traits than plant height, and LA, leaf length and width, and LM all decreased with increasing DBH in new bamboos. A structural equation model showed that soil physicochemical traits significantly affected leaf traits, but not size traits, of new bamboos. Overall, our study indicated an age-dependent response of bamboo leaf traits to environmental factors, although bamboos do not have secondary growth. These results suggest that future environmental changes, including climate change, will lead to age-related responses of bamboo leaf traits, which may further result in changes in stand structure and productivity of moso bamboo forests.

Leaf stomatal traits rather than anatomical traits regulate gross primary productivity of moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) stands

“…The concentrations of TC, TN, TP, NH 4 + -N and NO 3 – N were determined, using an elemental analyzer (Costech ECS 4024 CHNSO, Picarro, California, U.S.A.) and automatic chemical analyzer (Smartchem 4024, AMS Group, Italy), respectively. The concentrations of SAP, SOC and ROC contents were measured, using a continuous flow analyzer (AA3, Seal, Germany) and the potassium dichromate oxidation colorimetric method and potassium permanganate oxidation method, respectively ( Table S1 ) ( State Forestry Bureau, 1999 ; Guo et al., 2022 ).…”

The Phenotypic Variation in Moso Bamboo and the Selection of Key Traits

“…Notably, researchers found that the nutrient characteristics of moso bamboo fine Plants 2024, 13, 1625 2 of 13 roots varied considerably at different altitudes in the Wuyi Mountain area, suggesting adaptive strategies to the environment [8]. Additionally, a study investigating moso bamboo in six sites within China's range revealed varying leaf traits across geographical regions [9]. Furthermore, the growth and phenotypic traits of moso bamboo populations in different latitudinal regions (Anhui, Guangxi, and Zhejiang) showed significant differences, with the average length nodes under branches and leaf traits emerging as the most dominant phenotypic traits based on a principal component analysis [10].…”

Aboveground Biomass Component Plasticity and Allocation Variations of Bamboo (Pleioblastus amarus) of Different Regions

“…Additionally, the most renowned bamboo genera (e.g., Phyllostachys, Pleioblastus, Sinobambusa, and Arundinaria) are widely distributed across China's different climatic zones. Although many bamboo studies have focused on regional impacts of temperature [42], moisture [43], and soil nutrients [44] on growth and development, most have exclusively focused on a single influencing factor associated with bamboo distribution and leaf traits. However, little information is available on the compound regional and climate factors associated with phenotypic plasticity and accumulation and allocation processes of this critical economic plant group.…”