Chin J Plant Ecol ›› 2012, Vol. 36 ›› Issue (9): 1004-1014.DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1258.2012.01004

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Review of advances in radial patterns of stem sap flow

XU Fei1,2, YANG Feng-Ting1, WANG Hui-Min1,*(), DAI Xiao-Qin1   

  1. 1Qianyanzhou Ecological Station, Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Network Observation and Modeling, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
    2Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
  • Received:2012-04-20 Accepted:2012-05-31 Online:2012-04-20 Published:2012-09-06
  • Contact: WANG Hui-Min

Abstract:

Variability in radial patterns of sap flow is the main source of error in evaluating individual and stand transpiration using thermal techniques. Thus, it is necessary to understand and quantify radial patterns of stem sap flow before accurate estimation of forest transpiration can be conducted. We discuss the methods used to determine radial patterns of sap flow and summarize four main patterns of stem sap flow. We also review the effects of inner structure characteristics and environmental factors on radial patterns of sap flow. In addition, we present the diurnal and seasonal variability in radial patterns of sap flow. Lastly, we propose possible problems in resent research on radial patterns of stem sap flow.

Key words: radial patterns, sap flow density, stem sap flow, thermal techniques, transpiration