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AOBPreview originally published online on May 21, 2003
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Annals of Botany 92: 79-88, 2003
© 2003 Annals of Botany Company

Palaeo-adaptive Properties of the Xylem of Metasequoia: Mechanical/Hydraulic Compromises

RICHARD JAGELS*,1,2, GEORGE E. VISSCHER1, JOHN LUCAS2 and BARRY GOODELL2

1 Department of Forest Ecosystem Science, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA and 2 Wood Science and Technology, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA

* For correspondence. E-mail Richard_Jagels{at}umenfa.maine.edu

Received: 4 October 2002; Returned for revision: 10 February 2003; Accepted: 11 April 2003    Published electronically: 21 May 2003

The xylem of Metasequoia glyptostroboides Hu et Cheng is characterized by very low density (average specific gravity = 0·27) and tracheids with relatively large dimensions (length and diameter). The microfibril angle in the S2 layer of tracheid walls is large, even in outer rings, suggesting a cambial response to compressive rather than tensile stresses. In some cases, this compressive stress is converted to irreversible strain (plastic deformation), as evidenced by cell wall corrugations. The heartwood is moderately decay resistant, helping to prevent Brazier buckling. These xylem properties are referenced to the measured bending properties of modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity, and compared with other low-to-moderate density conifers. The design strategy for Metasequoia is to produce a mechanically weak but hydraulically efficient xylem that permits rapid height growth and crown development to capture and dominate a wet site environment. The adaptability of these features to a high-latitude Eocene palaeoenvironment is discussed.

Key words: Metasequoia, xylem conduction, xylem strength, decay resistance, microfibril angle, plastic deformation, Eocene, palaeoecology.


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