Pigment composition in Norway spruce needles suffering from different types of nutrient deficiency

1999

paper 2

1Tab., 20 Lit.

Unselbständiges Werk

200087328

Concentrations of pigments in needles of yellowish Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) Karst] trees suffering from either N, Mg or K deficiency in field sites in southeast Norway are reported. The yellowish trees had a considerably lower (roughly 50%) pigment concentration, as well as a lower chlorophyll/carotenoid ratio, compared to green trees within the same sites. Yellowing was interpreted as a general bleaching of colour, as well as a slight turn from the green (chlorophylls) towards yellow (lutein). Conentrations of pigments were highly intercorrelated. N deficiency was especially associated with low Alpha-carotene concentrations. This was interpreted as Alpha-carotene being the most sensitive pigment to stress. However, this pigment might be specifically sensitive to N deficiency. Carbohydrate concentrations were slightly higher in yellowish trees.