Changes in Levels of a-Tocopherol and Ascorbate in Spruce Needles at Three Low Mountain Sites Exposed to Mg2+-Deficiency and Ozone

Abstract

The main objective of this study was the com parison of changes in levels of α-tocopherol and ascorbate in needles of spruce trees with various degrees of damage at three low mountain sites. The ascorbate content in needles of spruce trees with various degrees of dam age differs in the course of seasons as well as in the absolute level. The antioxidant status was affected mainly during summer. The content of ascorbate in needles of dam aged trees was significantly increased compared to that of undamaged trees. Despite seasonal and daily fluctuations, the level of ascorbate seems to be a good indicator for the degree of dam age in the case of symptoms described as montane yellowing. Together with an increasing content of α-tocopherol per chlorophyll, a rise of ascorbate content indicates enhanced oxidative stress in the needles of damaged trees, particularly in summer. Asc/αToc ratios were increased in needles of damaged trees. At the studied sites enhanced oxidative stress could be caused by the com bined action of Mg²⁺-deficiency, high ozone concentrations and high-light intensity, all inducing an increased production of radicals in combination with a reduced photosynthetic capacity