Roles of soil chemistry and water availability in site-related δ13C variations in French beech forests

摘要: The carbon isotopic composition (delta(13)C) of wood and leaf cellulose beech trees (Fagus sylvatica L.) was studied at 80 sites in northeastern France. We sampled with contrasting water balance, depending on soil type precipitation. tested the hypothesis that inter-site variations plant delta(13)C reflect spatial distribution availability, we assessed whether could be used as a bioindicator availability. Patterns variation were compared estimates monthly balance other characteristics. Between-site variability high (2.9 per thousand range cellulose, 2.1 cellulose), but availability appeared to only minor factor contributing this delta(13)C. Unexpectedly, significantly positively related fertility expressed by pH (r = 0.42 0.43, respectively) cation content. On average, growing acidic soils displayed 0.5 lower both material than neutral or calcareous soils. Our initial strong negative relationship between site not confirmed. In study zone, neither nor reliable Possible causes for lack are discussed. findings confirm, under natural conditions, effect water-use efficiency previously observed experiments. This needs considered studies involving different sites.