Ecophysiological Aspects of Phloem Transport in Trees

Dordrecht

2014

Artikel aus einer ZeitschriftUnselbständiges Werk

14704

200191908

The primary function of the phloem is the transport of assimilate products from mature leaves to other tissues. Here we examine this function from a whole tree perspective and relate it to assimilate production, tree water relations, and tree structure. We argue that the turgor and osmotic pressures driving flow in the phloem are determined by these factors. An example calculation of these interactions is presented. The generalizations and possible shortcomings of the Mu¨nch flow hypothesis, the simplest theoretical framework used in describing phloem transport, are also discussed.