Anatomical Types of Xylem Growth-Ring Boundaries in 16 Tree Species from a Rainforest in Southern Ecuador
Alvarado Chamba JA, Bräuning A, Pucha-Cofrep DA (2025)
Publication Language: English
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2025
Journal
Book Volume: 81
Pages Range: 54-71
Journal Issue: 2
DOI: 10.3959/TRR2023-3
Abstract
This study analyzes wood anatomical properties and growth-ring boundaries in 16 tree species across a tropical humid forest along an altitudinal gradient in southern Ecuador. We extracted 64 wood cores, subjecting them to meticulous microscopic examination and thin section preparation with safranin and astrablue staining for growth-ring identification following IAWA standards. Correspondence analysis linking wood anatomical features and environmental variables revealed a nuanced connection between ecological factors, elevation and microscopic growth-ring distinctiveness. Species at lower altitudes (1000 m a.s.l.) exhibit indistinct growth rings, whereas those at higher altitudes (2000 m a.s.l.) often display distinct growth-ring boundaries with thick-walled latewood fibers. Apart from the deciduous Schefflera morototoni, evergreen tropical rainforest trees dominate at both elevations. This study provides new insights into growth-ring occurrence and anatomy in Ecuadorian tropical mountain rainforest trees, setting the stage for future dendrochronological research. The analysis of microscopic growth-ring features across species, elevations, and locations in the southeastern Andes offers new perspectives on wood structure. In the context of climate change, acquiring high-quality wood anatomical and dendrochronological data is crucial to advance our understanding of how forest trees respond to climate change and to develop adapted conservation and management strategies.
Authors with CRIS profile
Jordy Andres Alvarado Chamba
Lehrstuhl für Geographie (Physische Geographie)
Achim Bräuning
Lehrstuhl für Geographie (Physische Geographie)
Involved external institutions
Ecuador (EC)How to cite
APA:
Alvarado Chamba, J.A., Bräuning, A., & Pucha-Cofrep, D.A. (2025). Anatomical Types of Xylem Growth-Ring Boundaries in 16 Tree Species from a Rainforest in Southern Ecuador. Tree-Ring Research, 81(2), 54-71. https://doi.org/10.3959/TRR2023-3
MLA:
Alvarado Chamba, Jordy Andres, Achim Bräuning, and Darwin Alexander Pucha-Cofrep. "Anatomical Types of Xylem Growth-Ring Boundaries in 16 Tree Species from a Rainforest in Southern Ecuador." Tree-Ring Research 81.2 (2025): 54-71.
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