Variation in piperidine alkaloid chemistry of Norway spruce (Picea abies) foliage in diverse geographic origins grown in the same area

Abstract

Volatile piperidine alkaloids are widespread compounds found in low amounts in coniferous species. Here, we investigated the variation of piperidine alkaloid chemistry of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) in a provenance-type experiment. Volatile piperidine alkaloids were analysed from current-year mature needles of 12 geographical origins grown for 35 years at the same site. Results indicate that, despite long-lasting similar growth conditions, origins were still showing different alkaloid composition and concentrations, indicating solid genotype variation. The highest total piperidine alkaloid concentrations were detected in the northernmost origins, and a marked positive correlation between piperidine alkaloid concentrations and latitude was found. Positive correlation with latitude seems to be closely linked to negative correlation with annual temperature sum of origins. Interestingly, the changes in concentrations detected were not related to needle size and dilution effect. Regarding the possible herbivore-defense role of P. abies piperidine alkaloids, the high variation between origins could play a role for preventing the invasion of genotypes from different geographical areas.