Effect of altitude and age of stands on physiological response of three dominant plants in forests of the Western Carpathians

Abstract

The objective of research was to evaluate physiological reaction of dominant plants (Fagus sylvatica, Dryopteris filix-mas, Rubus idaeus) taking advantage of the altitudinal variations in the area of the Slovenský raj National park (Western Carpathians). Secondary spruce stands are the current edificators of phytocoenoses between the ages of 10–15 and 80–100 years, in undergrowths with a mix of naturally regenerated beech and fir. Nutrient contents in top soils followed the change of conditions, such as climate and soil type. The concentrations of available Ca and Mg were relatively fluctuated (CV 44–55%) and decreased with increased altitude. On the other hand, K and P concentrations (CV 38–41%) improved with increased altitude. Results of physiological characteristics of plants showed variations between species in rate of photosynthesis (P_n), rate of transpiration (E) and maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II (F_v/F_m). Effect of altitude appears inconclusive in species monitored and their measured parameters, with the exception of P_n in R. idaeus a D. filix-mas. Influence of better light conditions in youn-<br /> ger stands was proved in the values of F_v/F_m for F. sylvatica.