Vessel frequency, size and arrangement in two eucalypt clones growing at sites differing in water availability

Authors: David M. Drew, Norman W. Pammenter
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2006, Issue N.Z.J.For. 51(3) 2006, pp 23-28, Nov 2006
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

---

Abstract: Vessels are the water conducting elements in <I>Eucalyptus<I> and are therefore indispensable components of the xylem. However, they cause various problems for pulp production, predominantly “vessel picking” where vessel elements lift off the paper surface during printing. This is particularly problematic with large vessels. Therefore it is of benefit to understand how variation occurs, to better understand the quality of the wood resource. This study looked at short-term variation in vessel size and frequency in two <I>Eucalyptus <I>clones at sites differing in water availability. The drier site had smaller vessels, and a higher vessel frequency than the wetter site. There was a significant change in both vessel frequency and vessel size from March to June at both sites and in both clones. It was shown that there was a significant inverse relationship between vessel size and frequency. This study was conducted as part of ongoing research to develop simulation models of vessel formation in the cambium.

---