Species-Specific Dynamics in Nitrate reductase Activity in Coexisting Swamp Forest Plants

1) An in-vivo bioassay for nitrate reductase activity (NRA) was used to monitor seasonal variations in nitrate assimilation among eight co-existing vascular plant species in an old-growth, nutrient-rich swamp forest in Central Sweden. The relationship between NRA and leaf nitrogen concentration was also studied. 2) The plants studied included rare forest plants with restricted ecological ranges (Carex disperma and Poa remota), as well as more common plants with wider ecological ranges (Aconitum septentrionale, Crepis paludosa, Filipendula ulmaria, Geranium sylvaticum, Lactuca alpina and Stellaria memorum)