Drought tolerance of juvenile and mature leaves of a deciduous dwarf shrub Vaccinium myrtillus L. in a boreal environment

摘要: The difference between drought tolerance of juvenile and mature leaves the winter-deciduous dwarf shrub bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) from a northern boreal environment was investigated. It hypothesised that are more sensitive than leaves. Bilberry plants were allowed to dry out by excluding irrigation when at stages. Tissue water content decreased both phenological stages, but response pronounced in Anthocyanin concentrations increased as tissue decreased, again this occurred greater extent Chlorophyll only marginally stage, while decrease significant degradation enhanced stress. Soluble proteins protein oxidation leaves, oxidised drought-stressed plants. results suggest stress accelerates senescence stage. significance is periods during juvenility not detrimental they may be later summer. In addition, strategy plant obviously protect its perennial parts severe accelerated leaf Therefore, deciduous life form provide an excellent adaptation against also ecosystems. role anthocyanins photoprotection under discussed.