Ecophysiological characteristics of Taiwan alder (Alnus formosana) seedlings adapted to the subtropical region

We investigated several ecophysiological characteristics of seedlings of a low-elevation (100-200 m) and a high-elevation (2000-2400 m) population of Taiwan alder (Alnus formosana Makino) from subtropical Taiwan. Both populations had a wide optimal temperature range for photosynthesis, and there was little difference in the optimal temperature range for photosynthesis between populations. Photosynthetic rate (P(N)) was near maximal from 20 to 35 degrees C when seedlings of both the low-elevation and the high-elevation populations were acclimated at a day/night temperature of 30/23 degrees C. When seedlings were acclimated at a day/night temperature of 20/10 degrees C, P(N) was near maximal over the range 15-35 degrees C in the low-elevation population and 15-30 degrees C in the high-elevation population. Compared with nine other tree species native to Taiwan, Taiwan alder had a high P(N) and stomatal conductance (g(s)) under well-watered conditions. Reflecting its higher transpiration rate, Taiwan alder had a significantly greater leaf-air temperature difference than camphor (Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl), a co-occurring lowland tree species with leaves similar in shape and size to those of Taiwan alder. Despite higher g(s), high root and shoot hydraulic conductances enabled Taiwan alder to maintain higher leaf water potentials than camphor under well-watered conditions. We conclude that both photosynthetic characteristics and water relations are important factors enabling Taiwan alder to adapt to a wide temperature range, thereby ensuring its success at both high and low elevations in subtropical Taiwan.