How Is Bark Absorbability and Wettability Related to Stemflow Yield? Observations From Isolated Trees in the Brazilian Cerrado

Few investigations have examined the structural controls of bark on its water storage and influence stemflow, despite being considered a critical component that determines time magnitude this process. This study seeks to answer question: Do absorbability wettability estimates correlate with stemflow yield? We hypothesized (1) are correlated, is, greater implies wettability, (2) high rates has strong negative correlation generation. Stemflow yield (Sy) was monitored over 12 months for 31 trees, representing 9 species common Brazilian savanna ecosystem known as Cerrado. Bark absorbability, per unit dry weight, changes (BWA - by submersion methodology), drying (BWD), rate ), (BWD (initial contact angle – CA in ) were determined under laboratory conditions. As insoluble lignin may also act alter dynamics, each species, content characterized. variability significant across species. Funneling ratios (FR) indicates all species’ canopies diverted enough rainfall concentrate rainwaters at surface around their stem bases (FR > 1). Differences notable some tree A decrease value function not observed barks, which association yields, allowed novel classification method based it’s change: highly wettable (CA ? 75.3° ? 0.26°h –1 non-wettable 93.5° 0.13°h ). So, only from could be presented higher Sy, FR, BWA, BWA than The had positive BWA. On other hand, strongly , . Thus, properties showed deserves special attention. substantial effect comprehension proved an important variable link field investigation understanding yield. These findings will improve our balance ecohydrology processes forest ecosystems.