Question

Compare and contrast the hydraulic conductance of the whole tree versus the twigs in the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). In addition, would you expect the largest cavitation (embolism) to occur in the stem or in the twig?

Answer 1

To determine the hydraulic conductance of a tree, we need to take into consideration the following aspects:

• The leaf characteristics should be monitored
• Efficiency in the usage of water
• Water potential
• The hydraulic conductivity of one branch of the tree
• Moisture in the soil
• and considering all the meteorological variables

Since Ailanthus Altissima is a deciduous tree the hydraulic conductance of water is mostly concentrated on the whole tree. It is also considered a drought resistance tree.

Embolism usually occurs in the branch junctions. They increase rapidly depending upon the age and the stem width of the tree. There are a few reasons in discussion for the following statement. It can be a hormonal mechanism which controls the vascular patters of the tree or the narrow vascular elements which are present.