The tolerance of Pinus patula × Pinus tecunumanii, and other pine hybrids, to Fusarium circinatum in greenhouse trials

The field survival of Pinus patula seedlings in South Africa is frequently below acceptable standards. From numerous studies it has been determined that this is largely due to the pitch canker fungus, Fusarium circinatum. Other commercial pines, such as P. elliottii and P. taeda, show good tolerance to this pathogen and better survival, but have inferior wood properties and do not grow as well as P. patula on many sites in the summer rainfall regions of South Africa. There is, thus, an urgent need to improve the tolerance of P. patula to F. circinatum. Operational experience indicates that when P. patula is hybridized with tolerant species, such as P. tecunumanii and P. oocarpa, survival is greatly improved on the warmer sites of South Africa. Field studies on young trees suggest that this is due to the improved tolerance of these hybrids to F. circinatum. In order to test the tolerance of a number of pine hybrids, the pure species representing the hybrid parents, as well as individual families of P. patula × P. tecunumanii, a series of greenhouse screening trials were conducted during 2008 and 2009. The results indicated that species range in tolerance and hybrids, between P. patula and these species, are intermediate in tolerance to F. circinatum. Within P. patula × P. tecunumanii, large family variation exists when pollen from the high elevation source of P. tecunumanii is used. The results of these studies illustrate the importance of developing pine hybrid breeding programs to overcome the susceptibility of our pure species to pathogens such as F. circinatum.     

Sawn-timber and kraft pulp properties of Pinus elliottii × Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis and Pinus patula × Pinus tecunumanii hybrids and their parental species

A study was undertaken to evaluate the quality of the timber produced by Pinus elliottii × Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis (PECH) and the Pinus patula × Pinus tecunumanii low elevation (PPTL) and high elevation (PPTH) hybrids and their parent species for both kraft pulp and sawn-timber production. Trees were taken from unthinned tree improvement trials managed for pulpwood, ranging in age between 15 and 19 years. All sawn boards produced by study trees met the minimum wood density requirement for S5-grade structural timber (360 kg m^?3), but approximately 17% of the boards failed to meet the other requirements for the grade, largely due to knot-related defects. Results of dynamic modulus of elasticity assessments performed on all of the boards suggested that a large percentage of boards would not meet the specified average stiffness (7 800 MPa). This was confirmed by the results of static bending tests performed on a subsample of boards. All boards tested for all species and hybrids met the required fifth percentile bending strength value for grade S7 (15.8 MPa) according to SANS 6122 (2008) specifications. The kraft pulping results indicated that the samples taken from the upper part of the stem yielded slightly better results on average than the samples representing the whole tree with respect to uniformity in the kappa vs charge and temperature, and yield vs kappa traits, with slight improvement of pulp yield (52% vs 50%) and some strength properties compared with whole tree pulping. Samples from the upper part of the stem had a close delignification rate in the 60–80 kappa range. The delignification rate for PPTL in the 60–80 kappa range was slower and the yield was slightly lower than P. patula (53.17% vs 52.72%) despite a higher kappa number. The pulp strengths short-span compressive test, breaking length and tearing strength of PECH were similar to those of P. elliottii, which were in turn generally lower than those of P. patula. The pulp strengths of PPTL and PPTH were similar to those of P. patula, whereas P. caribaea strengths were intermediate between those of P. patula and P. elliottii. With the exception of a slightly lower pulp yield, PPTL emerged as the best all-round hybrid for both pulp and sawn-timber properties.     

Comparative study on three dynamic modulus of elasticity and static modulus of elasticity for Lodgepole pine lumber

The dynamic and static modulus of elasticity （MOE） between bluestained and non-bluestained lumber of Lodgepole pine were tested and analyzed by using three methods of Non-destructive testing （NDT）, Portable Ultrasonic Non-destructive Digital Indicating Testing （Pundit）, Metriguard and Fast Fourier Transform （FFT） and the normal bending method. Results showed that the dynamic and static MOE of bluestained wood were higher than those of non-bluestained wood. The significant differences in dynamic MOE and static MOE were found between bulestained and non-bluestained wood, of which, the difference in each of three dynamic MOE （Ep. the ultrasonic wave modulus of elasticity, Ems, the stress wave modulus of elasticity and El, the longitudinal wave modulus of elasticity） between bulestained and non-bluestained wood arrived at the 0.01 significance level, whereas that in the static MOE at the 0.05 significance level. The differences in MOE between bulestained and non-bluestained wood were induced by the variation between sapwood and heartwood and the different densities of bulestained and non-bluestained wood. The correlation between dynamic MOE and static MOE was statistically significant at the 0.01 significance level. Although the dynamic MOE values of Ep, Em, Er were significantly different, there exists a close relationship between them （arriving at the 0.01 correlation level）. Comparative analysis among the three techniques indicated that the accurateness of FFT was higher than that of Pundit and Metriguard. Effect of tree knots on MOE was also investigated. Result showed that the dynamic and static MOE gradually decreased with the increase of knot number, indicating that knot number had significant effect on MOE value.     

Development and commercialisation of the Pinus patula × P. tecunumanii hybrid in response to the threat of Fusarium circinatum

During the last 20 years a program to develop and commercialize the Pinus patula × Pinus tecunumanii hybrid, as a replacement for P. patula, has been successfully implemented. The first crosses were initiated during the early 1990s and lead to establishment of field trials across a wide variety of sites. This work gained further impetus when it became apparent that Fusarium circinatum, was causing poor post-planting survival of newly established stands of P. patula. P. tecunumanii, has been shown to be tolerant to this disease and thus a second, more comprehensive hybrid testing phase was implemented. Improvements in controlled pollination techniques and propagation methods, as well as access to genetically improved parent-stock and the use of molecular marker technology for fingerprinting was effectively utilized to greatly improve the process during this second phase. The use of artificial inoculation trials have demonstrated that the hybrid, in particular when using the low elevation (LE) provenances of P. tecunumanii, had substantially greater tolerance to F. circinatum than P. patula and survival figures from field trials support these results. Four-year volumes also indicate large growth improvements, although frost damage on certain sites presents a challenge for deployment on colder sites; and this is being tackled through breeding and accurate mapping of frost risk. Large-scale controlled pollinations and vegetative multiplication are now utilized commercially to produce the P. patula × P. tecunumanii (LE) hybrid as an alternative to P. patula.     

Relation between the dynamic modulus of elasticity and the static modulus of elasticity,the modulus of rupture of mandarin peel–sawdust composite board

This study was conducted to determine the relation between the dynamic modulus of elasticity and the static modulus of elasticity, and the relation between the dynamic modulus of elasticity and the modulus of rupture of mandarin peel–sawdust composite boards. The result of this study was as follows: There was highly close linear correlation between the dynamic modulus of elasticity and the static modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture of the mandarin peel–sawdust composite boards with the density of 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6 g/cm³, and the mandarin peel content of 10, 20, 30 and 40%, thus, the static modulus of elasticity and the modulus of rupture can be predicted from the dynamic modulus of elasticity measured by free vibration test using resonance frequency.     

Performance of Pinus elliottii, Pinus caribaea, their F1, F2 and backcross hybrids and Pinus taeda to 10 years in the Mesopotamia region, Argentina

Performances of Pinus taxa were studied to 10 years of age in two trials in each of Misiones and Entre Ríos provinces across the Mesopotamia region of Argentina. Taxa comprised 22 populations from sources in Argentina, Australia, Brazil and Zimbabwe including Pinus elliottii var. elliottii (Pee), Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis (Pch), their four, inter-specific hybrids (F₁, F₂ and backcrosses from F₁ to Pch and to Pee—all as broadly based bulks); other Pee and Pinus taeda (Pt) comprised narrower or unspecified bulks. Variable numbers of taxa were missing at each site. Mean survival across sites at age 10 years ranged 53.2–91.3% averaging 74.2%. Analysis of variance of plot means indicated population effect was statistically significant (p < 0.05) for all or most growth and quality traits at all sites. However, significant differences from the nominated check seedlot at the Entre Ríos sites (Pee, Australia) were extremely rare, while quite common at the northern, Misiones sites (check seedlot a Pt population). In the Misiones trials, F₁, F₂ and both backcross hybrids showed better stem straightness than Pee and Pt from Argentina, generally with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Pt showed lowest forking scores (desirable). Taxon × environment interaction was statistically significant (p < 0.01) for growth traits only (p > 0.05). However, this interaction contributed an average of only 34.1% of the taxon variance suggesting a lack of practical importance. Taxa most suitable for deployment in the Mesopotamia region, Argentina are suggested.     

A comparison of planting and coppice regeneration of Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla clones in South Africa

Results from two coppice compared to replant trials are presented that originated from clone by site interaction (CSI) trials established on high? and low?productivity sites in subtropical coastal KwaZulu?Natal, South Africa. After the 84?month CSI trial measurements were completed the trees were harvested. Selected plots were allowed to coppice with the remainder replanted to the same four Eucalyptus grandis×Eucalyptus urophylla hybrid clones. Growth was higher at Kwambo Timbers (average mean annual increment [MAI] 34 wet white tonnes [wwt] ha?1 y?1), characterised by a higher mean annual precipitation, than at Palm Ridge (average MAI 11 wwt ha?1 y?1). In these trials coppicing of sufficient stumps per hectare (>1 000 stumps ha?1) resulted in similar volume production on the higher?productivity site and slightly improved (additional 3.4 wwt ha?1 y?1) yield on the lower?productivity site compared with the planted crop. The benefit of coppicing was mainly related to a reduction in the temporary unplanted period and reduced establishment cost. This study showed that coppicing can be a viable, cost?effective alternative to planting in commercial forestry if a number of criteria are met. However, it is recommended that the decision to coppice or to replant should be evaluated on a case?by?case basis.     

Comparison of wood,fibre and vessel properties of drought-tolerant eucalypts in South Africa§

Three drought-tolerant eucalypt genotypes have been investigated for a broad spectrum of properties to provide a basis for comparison on their suitability for various end-uses. The genotypes included were a Eucalyptus grandis × E. camaldulensis hybrid, E. gomphocephala and E. cladocalyx, selected based on previous studies that indicated good potential to tolerate arid conditions, reasonably good volume growth and straightness of stems. In this study, information was added on differences between species and parts of stems in growth (volume and biomass) and properties of wood (density and stiffness), fibres (dimensions and microfibril angle) and vessels (size and numbers). We found high wood densities and stiffness values for E. cladocalyx and E. gomphcephala, making them suitable for construction wood. Logs from the mid-part of the stem had the best timber properties, as the butt logs showed the highest microfibril angle and lowest wood stiffness due to longitudinal juvenility. Such juvenility was also to some degree observed for wood density and fibre length. The information gained will be especially helpful for selecting species and processing options for small farm and community plantations for producing higher-value products that may be sold to generate much-needed income as well as for local uses, such as fuelwood and charcoal.     

Developing a taper model for the Pinus elliottii × P. caribaea var. hondurensis hybrid in South Africa

A relatively new hybrid, Pinus elliottii × P. caribaea var. hondurensis (Pexc), for which a taper model does not exist, is being planted commercially in South Africa. This study primarily focused on developing a taper model for Pexc in South Africa. Taper data were collected from a total of 363 trees, in the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, using a random sampling method. A subsample was selected to determine if altitude, rainfall, temperature or soil have a significant influence on the taper of Pexc. Only rainfall significantly influenced the overall taper. The Max and Burkhart segmented polynomial taper model, as well as the Kozak88, Kozak01 and Kozak02 variable exponent taper models, were fitted, compared and tested using the statistical analysis system (SAS). The predictive ability of the models was evaluated based on the results from the mean bias, standard deviation, the standard error of prediction and the average percentage deviation. The Kozak02 model had the best fit overall followed by the Max and Burkhart model (MB76). The MB76 model, however, predicted the volumes more accurately than the Kozak02 model.     

Coarse root–shoot allometry of Pinus radiata modified by site conditions in the Western Cape province of South Africa

The relationship between root and shoot growth and how it is modified by chronic or episodic drought stress is so far not well understood. Allometric partitioning theory (APT) supposes a constant root–shoot allometry. Optimal partitioning theory (OPT) assumes that plants’ root growth is enhanced under water limitation. However, recent studies show that fine and coarse roots react differently. This paper draws attention to the root–shoot allometry of adult Monterey pines (Pinus radiata D.Don) and its dependency on site conditions in South Africa. For assessment of the root–shoot-diameter relationship as an allometric relationship in general and for comparison with APT we used a sample of nine radiata pines from Jonkershoek and three maritime pines (Pinus pinaster Aiton) from Napier. In order to test for a site-dependency of the root–shoot allometry we sampled increment cores from stem and coarse roots of 48 radiata pines along a gradient from moist to dry sites in the Western Cape province. Tree ring analysis revealed an allometric relationship between root diameter (dr) and shoot diameter (ds) (ln(dr) = a + α _dr,ds × ln(ds)). Despite strong variation of the allometric exponent α _dr,ds we found a systematic deviation from 1.0 as would be predicted by APT. We also found α _dr,ds to decrease with drought stress, which is contradictory to both APT and OPT. However, on sites with more pronounced drought stress we detected greater allometric factors a. We hypothesise that fine root growth, and also fine root mortality, is higher on dry sites. On these sites coarse roots seem to be less necessary for matter transport compared with moist and fertile sites. On the latter, fine roots are less ephemeral and require larger coarse roots for transport. We conclude that combined root shoot tree ring analyses have the potential for improving understanding and modelling ecosystems and better assessment of forest functions such as resource use efficiency, stand stability and belowground carbon storage.     

Harvesting and extraction impacts on Eucalyptus grandis × E. urophylla coppicing potential and rotation-end volume in Zululand,South Africa

From the early 2000s there has been a general shift in South Africa in harvesting and extraction systems from the use of semi- to fully-mechanised systems. Any increase in mechanisation, as is occurring in Zululand, will need to take into consideration damage to stumps and the subsequent ability to regenerate by coppice. In 2002, four types of harvesting and extraction systems, arranged in a randomised complete block design, were used to clearfell a stand of E. grandis × E. urophylla. A motor-manual harvesting system was used to carry out the manual harvesting system (Man). The fully mechanised system (Mech) consisted of a single-grip harvesting head used with a tracked excavator to carry out all felling and processing operations. Two additional systems (Man_Mech_3W and Man_Mech_Flexi) had increased levels of mechanisation over that of the Man treatment. Both these harvesting systems made use of a Bell debarker, with loading carried out by a Bell three-wheeled loader in the Man_Mech_3W, and by a Flexiloader in the Man_Mech_Flexi treatments. Data collected from these four treatments were used to determine the effects of mechanised harvesting systems on type and severity of stump damage, coppicing potential and coppice growth over the rotation. Irrespective of harvesting system, more damage occurred to the top than bottom half of the stump, with a significant decrease in coppice regrowth with increasing stump damage. Most damage and least coppice regrowth occurred in the extraction rows where the damage recorded could be attributed to vehicle movement, tear-outs and/or log stripping. There was no significant difference between the harvesting systems in terms of stump mortality, final stem stocking and rotation-end volume. Thus, individual components within each harvesting system can have a larger impact than the overall harvesting system used. Future research should focus on these components, and where associated damage occurs for a specific component, this should be lessened through management intervention, training or technological improvements.     

Survival and long-term growth of eucalypts on semi-arid sites in a Mediterranean climate,South Africa§

Four experiments were established on the semi-arid west coast plain of South Africa during the 1990s. The trails tested the survival and growth of several eucalypt species and hybrids, some of which were established in a climate that is drier than their natural distribution range. The aridity indices (AI; defined as mean annual precipitation [MAP]/mean annual potential evapotranspiration) ranged from 0.21 to 0.36 and MAP from 228 to 423 mm. The driest trial site (AI = 0.21 and MAP = 228) had high levels of mortality. However, a number of species (in particular, Eucalyptus gomphocephala, E. camaldulensis and E. tereticornis, as well as individual hybrids of the latter two species with E. grandis) survived and grew well at the remaining sites. Eucalyptus cladocalyx survived well and attained competitive growth rates only on the wettest site in the group (AI = 0.36). The dominant height of the top-performing genotypes at age 5 ranged between 9 and 10 m on the two wetter sites. This corresponded to mean annual increment values in excess of 10 m³ ha^?1 a^?1, which is comparable to volume obtained at more favourable aridity indices in the summer rainfall zone of South Africa and exceeds the growth rates obtained in several other arid zone studies globally. The E. grandis × E. camaldulensis hybrid ranked among the top performers in two trials, but its susceptibility to recently introduced pests and relatively poor wood quality makes it a less attractive choice for planting. The high density and durability of timber, acceptable growth rate (given the low rainfall conditions), and low pest and disease incidence make E. gomphocephala and E. cladocalyx the species of choice for planting in the drier and relatively wetter sections of the semi-arid zone, respectively.     

The use of glyphosate for the management of secondary coppice regrowth in a Eucalyptus grandis × E. urophylla coppice stand in Zululand,South Africa

In South Africa, commercial eucalypt stands may be regenerated through the stepwise reduction of coppice shoots following felling. The development of secondary coppice regrowth following these reduction operations results in competition with the remaining stems, possibly resulting in a reduction in growth. Currently, secondary coppice regrowth is controlled manually, or through spraying with glyphosate at 0.6% when ca. 0.75?m in height. No research has been conducted to determine whether alternative rates and/or timing of application are possible or cost-effective. In 2006 a trial was implemented in Zululand, South Africa on a recently coppiced stand of Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla so as to optimise rates of glyphosate application (0.6%, 1.2% and 1.8%) for the control of secondary coppice regrowth at various heights (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5?m). Tree and secondary coppice regrowth variates were measured annually until rotation-end (9 years, 3 months). The volume of herbicide used, the number of occasions each treatment was sprayed and associated costs were combined to provide an indication of the most cost-effective treatment. Although there were no significant differences in final coppice yield for the various rates of glyphosate and timing of application (as assessed by the size of the secondary coppice regrowth) tested, treatment efficacy in terms of treating secondary coppice regrowth increased with an increase in the rate of glypho- sate applied (0% < 0.6% < 1.2% < 1.8%), especially when treated at either 1.0 or 1.5?m in height. The use of glypho- sate, irrespective of rate and/or timing of application (as assessed by secondary coppice regrowth height), proved to be more cost-effective compared with manual control or the spraying of the secondary coppice regrowth at 0.75?m height with 0.6% glyphosate. The most cost-effective treatment was 1.2% glyphosate applied when the secondary coppice regrowth was 1.5?m. If reduced herbicide use is a major criterion within a company portfolio, then the secondary coppice regrowth can be manually removed when 1.5?m.     

Clonal variation in growth,PSⅡ photochemical activity and polar metabolites in Pinus elliottii × P.caribaea

Pinus elliottii × P.caribaea is a widely planted commercial tree hybrid in South China.To investigate the potential of physiological parameters for clonal selection,cuttings of three clones (EH3,EH4 and EH5) and a control were grown in phosphorus treated pots.Significant vari-ations to phosphorous,photosystem Ⅱ activity and polar metabolite abundance in needles were noted among clones.Clone EH5 was the most P-responsive and had maximum height growth.The highest maximum quantum yield of PSⅡin the dark (Fv/Fm),maximum quantum yield of PSⅡ in the light (Fv'/Fm') and the actual PSⅡ efficiency (φPSⅡ) values were also found in EH5.A total of 64 polar metabolites were identified,21 were regulated by phosphorous,while 28 accumulated differentially among the three clones.There were few overlapping responsive metabolites to phosphorous fertilization.In EH5,the abundance of maltotriitol,neohes-peridin and raffinose were highest,whereas galactinol and shikimic acid were lower compared with EH3 and EH4.The results reveal that physiological traits were genetically con-trolled and might be useful for selecting clones with high phosphorous utilization efficiency.     

Drought tolerance of Acacia karroo, a native tree species to South Africa, in Beijing

Acacia karroo is an indigenous, strong drought-tolerant and widely planted tree in South Africa. In order to match the plant with its adaptation to forest sites in China, it is important to know the drought-tolerance of this species under Chinese forest site conditions. Our study was carried out in cinnamon soils in Beijing and with Platycladus orientalis, the most drought-tolerant tree in Beijing, as control. Physiological parameters of young plants of the trees were measured and divided into three groups in response to soil drying. The first group included root activity, ABA content in roots and peroxidase (POD) activity in leaves. Their values changed similarly to those of P. orientalis and dramatically increased to maximum values when the soil water content (SWC) decreased from its normal level of 20% to 7.6% where the three indices decreased dramatically when SWC was reduced further from 7.6%. The second group of parameters included the contents of proline, soluble protein and malondialdehyde (MDA). Their values showed greater variation than those of P. orientalis and significantly increased when SWC decreased from 20% in response to soil drying. However, the proline and soluble protein contents fluctuated in A. karroo at a lower level than those in P. orientalis. In contrast, the content of MDA in A. karroo was much higher than that in P. orientalis which almost did not increase in the drying soil. The third group of parameters consisted of soluble sugar, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). These parameters showed greater diversity and fluctuations among the three varieties of A. karroo compared with the control in response to soil drying. These results suggest that A. karroo is characterized as a strong, drought tolerant species in most of physiological parameters but weaker than P. orientalis in membrane lipid antioxidation.     

Growth, healthy status and seed production of differently aged allochtonous and autochtonous Pinus mugo stands in the Giant Mts. over 30 years

Plant communities with Dwarf pine (Pinus mugo var. pumilio) form characteristic vegetation in the subalpine belt of the Giant Mountains (Krkono?e, Karkonosze and Riesengebirge, Czech Republic). This “island” of arcto-alpine tundra represents the northernmost edge of Dwarf pine natural range. We asked how concentration of sulphur in needles, growth, healthy status and fructification changed over three decades (1981–2011) with different air pollution in differently aged (45–120 years) autochtonous and allochtonous (introduced from the Alps) Dwarf pine stands. Different Dwarf pine stands above the alpine timberline were able to withstand 1980s, the period of heavy air pollution, without any decrease in growth rate or remarkable decrease in healthy status. Dwarf pine is thus highly tolerant to deposition of sulphur compounds. High concentration of SO₂ in the air positively affected sulphur concentration in needles and eliminated thus sulphur deficiency. Higher germination rate of seeds in 2000s in comparison with 1980s indicate that the air pollution could decrease germination ability of seeds. High insect outbreaks (by Thecodiplosis brachyntera and Neodiprion sertifer) in 1990s and 2000s caused decrease in needle year classes. As there was a gradual increase in mean annual temperature over years 1981–2011, Dwarf pine stands can be more and more endangered by insect outbreaks in the future. There was no remarkable difference between autochtonous and allochtonous stands in all measured growth, healthy status and fructification characteristics. To determine real effects of air pollution and insect outbreaks on Dwarf pine stands from year to year fluctuations, decade-long monitoring is necessary.     

Family variation in diameter growth and acoustic velocity in three 5‑year‑old South African‑grown Pinus elliottii×Pinus caribaea progeny trials established on three diverse sites

This paper discusses family differences in the stiffness of young Pinus elliottii×P. caribaea wood and how these differences relate to differences in growth rate and altitude. Trees for measurement were obtained from three 5?year?old progeny trials established at three diverse sites on the estate of Komatiland Forests (Pty) Ltd. The trials included the following controls: P. elliottii, P. patula, P. taeda, P. patula×P. tecunumanii and P. tecunumanii. Diameter at breast height and sound velocity (which has a direct relationship with wood stiffness) were measured on all healthy trees. Virtually all of the species and hybrids exhibited marked decreases in growth rate and velocity (stiffness) with increasing altitude; the effect on velocity was most likely partly due to the inverse relationship that normally exists between wood density and altitude in most pines. Differences in growth rate explained only a small proportion of the total variation in velocity. The average sound velocities of P. patula, P. patula×P. tecunumanii and P. tecunumanii surpassed the velocity values of most of the P. elliottii×P. caribaea crosses at all three sites. Results of Spearman rank correlations of average treatment velocity between sites suggested only some similarity in the ranking orders among sites. The inverse effect of altitude on wood stiffness suggests that trees grown at increased altitudes are likely to yield wood with higher proportions of wood not meeting the minimum stiffness requirement for structural lumber at final harvest. The wood of some P. elliottii×P. caribaea crosses would be particularly vulnerable. Considering the large variation found, presumably largely genetic, there can be little doubt that a good opportunity exists for the development of genotypes more suitable for planting at higher altitudes.     

Changes in nutrient concentrations and nutrient release in decomposing needle litter in monocultural systems of Pinus contorta and Pinus sylvestris—a comparison and synthesis

Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) needle litters were compared in terms of nutrient composition and its change during decomposition. Initial nutrient composition differed between the species, with lodgepole pine needle litter having significantly higher concentrations of P, Mg and Mn. However, no difference was found for concentrations of N, Ca or K. Increases in concentrations of N, P and K during decomposition were significant in both litter types. For Ca the pattern of concentration changes followed a quadratic function as decomposition proceeded. Concentrations of Mg and Mn decreased in lodgepole pine needle litter. In Scots pine litter there was also an initial decrease, but it was followed by an increase in most incubations. For both Mg and Mn, changes in concentrations during decomposition differed significantly between species. In the late decomposition stages, concentrations of Mg and Mn became similar in both litter types. Nutrient concentrations generated by the models were compared with those of the humus (F and H) layer in the stands. The model was quite accurate in predicting concentrations of N and P for both species and the concentration of Mg for lodgepole pine. By contrast, it was not accurate in predicting concentrations of Ca and Mn. Nutrient release was estimated for the two species using both measured litterfall data and long‐term estimates, and regression models were used to predict concentration changes. Rates of release of P, Mg and Mn in the lodgepole pine stands were found to be about twice as high compared with those in Scots pine. Calcium was also released to a greater extent although the difference was not significant.     

Relationship between Growth Traits Heterosis and Genetic Distance among Parents of Pinus elliottii × P.caribaea Based on SSR Molecular Markers

利用SSR标记对17个湿加松亲本无性系进行遗传多样性分析,进而分析亲本遗传距离与子代杂种优势的相关性.结果表明:14个微卫星标记在湿加松亲本群体中均呈现高度多态,共检测到57个等位基因,多态位点百分率为87.72％,平均杂合度为0.144 4～0.884 1,以SSR标记遗传距离聚类,将参试亲本材料划分为2大类群,可以用于湿加松亲本遗传多样性的评价.树高、胸径、材积的杂种优势与亲本遗传距离相关性达显著或极显著水平,相关系数分别为0.542 0、0.641 2、0.639 3,决定系数分别为0.293 8、0.411 0、0.408 7.分子标记遗传距离与树高、胸径、材积的杂种优势相关程度较高,利用SSR标记预测湿加松杂种优势是可行的,为湿加松良种选育及亲本选配提供参考.     

Cold tolerance of Acacia karroo and A. nilotica, two tree species from South Africa, in Beijing

Fynbos plant communities developed under geographic and climatic conditions unique to South Africa. Acacia karroo is the most widespread tree species, well known for its drought tolerance. A. nilotica exudes a good quality gum which is edible and suitable for confectionery. The two species have been introduced to China but little is known about their adaptability under the new environmental conditions. For our present study, the growth potential and physiological and biochemical parameters of the two species in response to cold stress were investigated. The results, measured as seed qualities (purity, thousand seed weights, germination, etc.) show differences between A. karroo and A. nilotica. The seed germination rate was between 10% and 60%. Seedlings were established in fields, pots and plugs. Those in the field grew well during the growing season but completely died in the winter. Those in pots or plugs were moved to and managed in the greenhouse. The plants were green in winter. The electrical conductivity of cells, the contents of water soluble sugars, proteins, malondialdehyde (MDA) increased during eight hours of low temperature treatment at 4℃. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) decreased markedly during the eight hours of 4℃treatment. We conclude that A. karroo and A. nilotica have little adaptability to the cold winter weather and cannot survive in the outdoors in the Beijing area, but could grow well indoors as ornamentals.