Intra-annual wood density fluctuations and tree-ring width patterns are sex- and site-dependent in the dioecious conifer Juniperus thurifera L.

摘要: Sex and site conditions modulate intra- inter-annual secondary growth its climatic sensitivity in a dioecious Mediterranean conifer. Divergent evolutionary pressures associated with differential reproductive costs trees may lead to sex-related variation non-reproductive functions. Sex-related differences be site-dependent, different outcomes depending on environmental conditions. We explored the effects of sex control annual intra-annual wood density fluctuations (IADF) conifer (Juniperus thurifera L.) growing two sites contrasting hydrological under continental climate. Different strategies had variable relative growth, females outperforming males more favorable conditions, water-limited Ring width IADF formation were driven by factors occurring at temporal scales. Tree-ring depended acting prior initiation xylogenesis directly affecting duration pace cambial activity, ring width, therefore, integrated complex signal over relatively long period, an cycle. In contrast, IADFs responded singular short-term events that alleviated drought promoted reactivation during summer arrest. Female showed opportunistic water use, displayed stronger ring-width response June–July Enhanced set lower threshold for occurrence, leading higher frequency irrespective site. Intra-annual female patterns reflect strategy benefit from windows.