Lignin distribution across tracheid cell walls of poorly lignified wood from deformed copper deficient Pinus radiata (D. Don)

Summary Lignin topochemistry of tracheid walls from a deformed, copper deficient Pinus radiata (D. Don) tree was examined by linescan and point analyses using a Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy Dispersive Spectrometry. Both opposite and compression wood had abnormal lignin distributions compared to those observed in normal wood from a straight tree. Lignin contents in the compound middle lamella were lower than lignin contents in the secondary wall in both opposite and compression wood tracheids.One of us (G. D.) held a Commonwealth Forestry Postgraduate Research Award during this study. The research was supported in part by a grant from the Reserve Bank of Australia Rural Credits Development Fund, the Pine Fund, and members of the forest industry