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The Regulation of Osmotic Potential in Trees

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Trees in a Changing Environment

Part of the book series: Plant Ecophysiology ((KLEC,volume 9))

Abstract

The availability of water and the ability of plants to acquire it influence productivity among many ecosystems. For all plants, both terrestrial and marine, the modification of internal osmotic potential (ψπ) is a commonly observed response to changes in water availability. This chapter highlights that modification of ψπ and its effects on plant water potential (ψ) should be considered with regard to physiological relevance, particularly when discussing the physiology of trees. A limited range of solutes are suitable as cellular osmotica and we highlight the physiochemical properties that help to maintain physiological function at low ψ. Overall, differences in the capacity to regulate ψπ are among many functional adaptations that enable growth and productivity of trees across a wide range of environments.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia

    Andrew Merchant

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  1. Andrew Merchant
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Correspondence to Andrew Merchant .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Forest and Ecosystem Science, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Victoria, Australia

    Michael Tausz

  2. Pacific NW Research Station WWETAC, USDA Forest Service, Prineville, Oregon, USA

    Nancy Grulke

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Merchant, A. (2014). The Regulation of Osmotic Potential in Trees. In: Tausz, M., Grulke, N. (eds) Trees in a Changing Environment. Plant Ecophysiology, vol 9. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-9100-7_5

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