Basic mechanisms of pigment bleaching and loss of structural resistance in spruce (Picea abies) needles: advances in phytomedical diagnostics

E. F. Elstner, W. Osswald, R. J. Youngman

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

62 Scopus citations

Abstract

Preliminary phytochemical diagnostic data in addition to scanning electron microscopy in spruce (Picea abies) needles from 18 different locations in Upper Bavaria support the following hypothesis: both physiological changes in the photosynthesizing cells and structural changes on the needle surfaces (loss of integrity of the wax layer over the stomatal cavities) are the result of the interaction of biomolecules with photooxidants. Damaged needles lose their resistance towards fungal invaders which finally cause necrotisation and abscission of the needles.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)591-597
Number of pages7
JournalExperientia
Volume41
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 1985

Keywords

  • Spruce decline
  • fungal infections
  • photooxidations
  • phytomedical diagnostics
  • structural resistance

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