Secondary analysis demonstrates nutrient-dependent dry matter partitioning in forest tree species, indicating that internal growth and uptake dynamics govern biomass allocation.
Key Points
Evaluate how constant nutrient status influences dry matter and biomass allocation across multiple forest tree species.
Re-analyzed published experimental datasets for four forest tree species (Betula pendula, Picea abies, Pinus contorta, and Pinus sylvestris).
Assessed plants cultivated under steady-state nutrition and growth conditions where internal nutrient concentrations were held constant over extended periods of biomass accumulation.
Biomass allocation patterns under both nutrient-limiting and optimal conditions were derived mathematically from parameters linking nutrient status, nutrient uptake, and growth rate.
Internal physiological properties that regulate nutrient acquisition were shown to directly govern dry matter partitioning between plant organs.