Optical properties of leaves in relation to anthocyanin concentration and distribution

2000; Canadian Science Publishing; Volume: 77; Issue: 12 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1139/b99-153

ISSN

1480-3305

Autores

Sam Neill, Kevin S. Gould,

Tópico(s)

Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms

Resumo

We have tested the tacit assumption that the location of anthocyanic cells within a leaf affects the quality and quantity of light that is absorbed. Leaf optics are described for Quintinia serrata A. Cunn., a native New Zealand tree that is polymorphic for anthocyanin distribution and concentration. Anthocyanin production enhanced the absorptance of green-yellow wavelengths in proportion to pigment concentration. The reflectance of red light was independent of leaf anthocyanin content. Variation in the location of pigmented cells could not account for differences in leaf optics. The effects of anthocyanin on PAR absorptance were consistent across six further, unrelated species that bore red leaves. We conclude that anthocyanin concentration, rather than its histological distribution, has the greater impact on leaf optical properties.

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