Elevated [CO2 ] alleviates the impacts of water deficit on xylem anatomy and hydraulic properties of maize stems.
Parole chiave
Astratto
Plants can modify xylem anatomy and hydraulic properties to adjust to water status. Elevated [CO2 ] can increase plant water potential via reduced stomatal conductance and water loss. This raises the question of whether elevated [CO2 ], which thus improves plant water status, will reduce the impacts of soil water deficit on xylem anatomy and hydraulic properties of plants? To analyze the impacts of water and [CO2 ] on maize stem xylem anatomy and hydraulic properties, we exposed potted maize plants to varying [CO2 ] levels (400, 700, 900, 1200 ppm) and water levels (full irrigation, deficit irrigation). Results showed that at current [CO2 ], vessel diameter, vessel roundness, stem cross-section area, specific hydraulic conductivity and vulnerability to embolism decreased under deficit irrigation; yet, these impacts of deficit irrigation were reduced at elevated [CO2 ]. Across all treatments, midday stem water potential was tightly correlated with xylem traits and displayed similar responses. A distinct trade-off between efficiency and safety in stem xylem water transportation in response to water deficit was observed at current [CO2 ], but not observed at elevated [CO2 ]. The results of this study enhance our knowledge of plant hydraulic acclimation under future climate environments and provide insights into trade-offs in xylem structure and function.