Further Test of Pneumatic Method in Constructing Vulnerability Curves Using Six Tree Species with Contrasting Xylem Anatomy

The pneumatic method is a novel determining vulnerability to embolism in plants, yet it remains unclear whether this suitable for all species with different xylem anatomy. In study, using six tree contrasting anatomy, including four vessel-bearing (diffuse-porous wood and ring-porous wood) two tracheid-bearing (non-porous wood), we test the reliability of by comparing hydraulic methods also considering turgor loss point native embolism. Vessel length distribution cut-open vessel volume were evaluated silicone injection technique. Additionally, synthesized published data find out consistency between methods. Results showed that there was maximum 10-folds difference mean diameter varying from 30 56 μm among species. estimated open ranges 0.064 0.397 mL, 14% tube vacuum reservoir. For species, good methods, evidenced significantly overestimated because bad consistencies plant water relations. Data synthesis suggested can accurately measure but not Our study provided further evidence accurate most thus has potential be widely used hydraulics field. However, proposed precise calculation air discharge should take into account vessels wide long vessels.