Shields against pollution: phytoremediation and impact of particulate matter on trees at Wigry National Park, Poland.

This study examines the impact of airborne particulate matter (PM) and associated trace elements (TEs) on deciduous and coniferous trees at the edge of Wigry National Park in northeast Poland, focusing on pollution levels and the potential for phytoremediation. Researchers measured PM concentrations in the air and on the leaves of , , and , along with photosynthetic indicators (Fv/Fm ratio and performance index). The study found significant differences in pollution intensity across areas with varying levels of human activity.

Remarkable Similarity in Timing of Absorptive Fine-Root Production Across 11 Diverse Temperate Tree Species in a Common Garden.

Long-term minirhizotron observations of absorptive fine roots provide insights into seasonal patterns of belowground root production and carbon dynamics. Our objective was to compare root dynamics over time across mature individuals of 11 temperate trees species: five evergreen and six deciduous. We analyzed the timing and growth on 1st-and 2nd-order roots in minirhizotron images down to a vertical depth of 35 cm, as well as monthly and total annual length production.

The interactive impact of root branch order and soil genetic horizon on root respiration and nitrogen concentration.

In general, respiration (RS) is highly correlated with nitrogen concentration (N) in plant organs, including roots, which exhibit a positive N-RS relationship. Less is known, however, about the relationship between N and RS in roots of different branch orders within an individual tree along a vertical soil profile; this is especially true in trees with contrasting life strategies, such as pioneer Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) vs mid-successional sessile oak (Quercus petraea Liebl.

Seasonal Changes Affect Root Prunasin Concentration in Prunus serotina and Override Species Interactions between P. serotina and Quercus petraea.

The allocation of resources to chemical defense can decrease plant growth and photosynthesis. Prunasin is a cyanogenic glycoside known for its role in defense against herbivores and other plants. In the present study, fluctuations of prunasin concentrations in roots of Prunus serotina seedlings were hypothesized to be: (1) dependent on light, air temperature, and humidity; (2) affected by competition between Prunus serotina and Quercus petraea seedlings, with mulching with Prunus serotina leaves; (3) connected with optimal allocation of resources.

The impact of material used for minirhizotron tubes for root research.

•  A wide variety of transparent materials are currently used for minirhizotron tubes. We tested the null hypothesis that minirhizotron composition does not influence root morphology and dynamics. •  Minirhizotron data were compared for glass, acrylic and butyrate tubes in apple (Malus domestica) and acrylic and butyrate tubes in a study with six forest tree species.