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Interactive effects of ambient ozone and climate measured on growth of mature loblolly pine trees

Conference ·
OSTI ID:10120807
Analysis of the seasonal growth patterns of mature loblolly pine trees over the interval 1988-1993 has provided the first direct measurement of reductions of stem growth of large forest trees by ambient ozone. Patterns of stem expansion and contraction of 34 trees were examined in eastern Tennessee using serial measurements with sensitive dendrometer bind systems. Study sites varied in soil moisture, soil fertility, and stand density. Levels of ozone, rainfall, and temperature varied widely over the six year study interval. Regression analysis identified statistically and biologically significant influences of ozone on stem growth. Acting either individually or in interaction with high temperature and moisture stress, higher levels of ozone were associated with reduced stem expansion of individual trees within and across years. Observed responses to ozone were relatively rapid, differed widely among trees, and across years, and were significantly amplified by low soil moisture and high air temperatures. Both short term responses, clearly tied to changing stem water status, and longer term cumulative responses were identified. These data indicate that relatively low levels of ambient ozone can significantly reduce growth of mature forest trees and that interactions between ambient ozone and climate are likely to be important modifiers of future forest growth and function. Additional studies of mechanisms of short term response and inter species comparisons are clearly needed.
Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-84OR21400
OSTI ID:
10120807
Report Number(s):
CONF-9409301--1; ON: DE95007032
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English