Investigation of Chromosomal Aberrations in the Root Tip Meristems of Spruce Trees from the Achenkirch Altitude Profiles

1996

S. 163-176

zahlr. Lit. Ang.

Unselbständiges Werk

200052110

Studies of Ecosystems in the Limestone Alps - "Achenkirch Altitude Profiles" ; 36(4), S. 163-176
; 36(4)

The classification of chromosomal aberrations was used to characterize the environmental situation of spruce trees of the altitude profiles Achenkirch. Since 1989 we have applied this cytogenetic test system in Austria and it has proved practicable and promising. The sites of the profiles ranged from 920m to 1686m a.s.l. and samples were taken in spring and autumn 1992 and 1993. The results showed no effects in the form of an increased number of chromosomal defects on the plants of the lowest site (920m) over the whole investigation period. The other sites were more or less influenced. Within the sites no significant differences in the number of chromosomal aberrations could be observed. Differences in the number of chromosomal aberrations between the higher sites of the profiles could hardly be observed. Differences between the sampling dates were significant especially at the median altitudes (1240m to 1420m a.s.l.). At these sites the stress situation changed from spring 1992 to autumn 1993 demonstrated by of a decreased number of chromosomal abnormalities.