Bud development types as a new macroscopic marker of Norway spruce decline and recovery processes along a mountainous pollution gradient

摘要: Summary A new macroscopic marker of decline and recovery processes in Norway spruce ( Picea abies ) based on proportions bud development types was evaluated 315 mature trees two mountainous regions the Czech Republic. This study conducted 1998 at 63 sites located Krusne hory Mts, which exhibited a wide range damage corresponding to gradient increasing air pollution load (mainly SO 2 NO x Sumava relatively unpolluted area. Proportions (regular buds, buds with growth potential aborted buds) were found refl ect current intensity primary shoot formation crowns as well capability replace needle loss by secondary shoots via differentiation potential. Using cluster analysis, classifi ed according proportion individual into one three categories: accelerated, stabilized or decreased growth. Trees accelerated are characterized intense production assimilative organs small pool viable have high for crown activation abundant potential, rates slow pools ects forest observed areas recent decreases loads. The results indicate that traditional markers such defoliation less sensitive status tree when compared types. this forestry practice physiology is discussed.