Effects of elevated carbon dioxide concentration on wood structure and formation in trees

Abstract

The effects of elevated carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]) on the structure of xylem cells in trees have not yet been clarified, in spite of the importance of woody plants as large, long-term carbon sinks. We review recent studies that have investigated how elevated [CO2] affects growth ring features. In general, elevated [CO2] enhances ra-dial growth, especially when sufficient nutrients are supplied. The mean density of growth rings also increased but sometimes it decreased or remained unchanged, depend-ing on the extent of cell division, cell expansion and cell wall thickening under elevated [CO2].