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Evidence that ozone exposure increases the susceptibility of plants to natural frosting episodes

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 February 1997

J. P. FOOT
Affiliation:
Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
S. J. M. CAPORN
Affiliation:
Manchester Metropolitan University, Crewe and Alsager Faculty, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 5DU, UK
J. A. LEE
Affiliation:
Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, The University, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
T. W. ASHENDEN
Affiliation:
Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, University of Wales, Deiniol Road, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UP, UK
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Abstract

This study investigates the phytotoxicity of ozone during periods of natural frosts following long-term fumigation. Heather (Calluna vulgaris (L.) Hull.) plants were fumigated with ozone for 6 months at 70 nl l−1, for 8 h d−1, 5 d a week in open-top chambers. Natural frosting occurred within the chambers towards the end of this period (5–27 December 1995). Plant responses to the ozone/natural frosting episode were recorded in January 1996. We show conclusively that naturally occurring frost exposure results in increased damage and mortality for ozone-treated plants, which could have important implications for the function of heathland ecosystems.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Trustees of the New Phytologist 1997

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