Ecophysiological Aspects of Phloem Transport in Trees

Dordrecht

Springer

2014

S. 25-36

Artikel aus einer ZeitschriftUnselbständiges Werk

200191908

Trees in a changing environment : ecophysiology, adaptation, and future survival, S. 25-36

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.