Differential Impact of an Eclipse on Photosynthetic Performance of Trees with Different Degrees of Shade Tolerance

Solar eclipses represent a natural and unexpected event for plants that can potentially affect photosynthetic performance at the individual level. This effect, however, has seldom been evaluated. Here, we measured impact of total solar eclipse on rate different tree species—located in Bosque Fray Jorge National Park, Chile—with varying degrees shade tolerance. Specifically, assessed whether rapid progressive light limitation facilitated by would negatively responses these species their have greater decrease when percentage shadow was higher, particularly less shade-tolerant species. To accomplish this, compared daily changes rates three during control (non-eclipse) vs. an day occurred 2 July 2019. Overall, showed differences between non-eclipse dynamics performance, with this trend being most evident peak eclipse. Additionally, each pattern de-epoxidation accordance its degree Our results suggest photosynthesis studied Chilean species, which may be related to energy dissipation capacity via xanthophyll pigments. effect more shade-intolerant indicating present consequences overall various plant