C, N, P, and K Ecological Stoichiometry Characteristics of Different Organs of Tree Species in Dolomite and Limestone Karst Areas of Southwestern China
2025
Wenjun Zhao | Yongyan Yang | Peng Wu | Yiju Hou | Xia Jiang | Hua Zhou
To explore environmental differentiation in the stoichiometric characteristics of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and their ratios among tree species organs in different lithological karst regions of Guizhou, six common species were selected from the limestone karst area of Liping and the dolomite karst area of Shibing. The analysis focused on the differences in the contents of C, N, P, and K, as well as the ratios of C/N, C/P, C/K, and N/P, and the correlations among these elements in branches, leaves, and roots, with the aim of investigating the allocation distribution patterns of nutrient elements among organs in tree species under different lithological karst conditions. The results showed the following: In both dolomite and limestone karst regions, the tree species exhibited a distinct characteristic: their leaves exhibited high C levels, but relatively low N and P levels. Tree species in both karst regions showed high C/N, C/P, and C/K ratios, indicative of rapid C assimilation rates and efficient utilization of N, P, and K. Plant growth in the dolomite region was N-limited, while plant growth in the limestone region was P-limited. However, plant growth in neither region was K-limited. The nutrient characteristics and adaptation strategies of plants in dolomite and limestone karst regions were the result of multiple factors, such as lithology, plant organs, and interactions among elements. In conclusion, considering the differences in lithology during vegetation restoration and management in karst regions, targeted application of nitrogen or phosphorus fertilizers is expected to promote plant growth and further enhance the carbon sequestration capacity of both karst plants and soils.
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