Multivariate analysis of intraspecific responses to UV-B radiation in white clover (Trifolium repens L.)

Abstract

White clover (Trifolium repens L.) is experiencing increased levels of ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation in temperate pastures due to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer. Based on 17 morphological, morphogenetic and physiological attributes, this study analysed the consequences of enhanced UV-B on 26 white clover populations using principal components analysis (PCA). After 18 d of exposure to 13.3 kJ m-2 d-1 UV-B in controlled environments, UV-B significantly decreased above-ground and below-ground plant growth attributes, epidermal cell surface area and maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II photochemistry (Fv/Fm). Aspects of cell division and cell expansion both were negatively affected by UV-B. Stomatal density, specific leaf mass, root-to-shoot ratio and levels of UV-B-absorbing compounds increased in response to UV-B. In the multivariate analysis, the main dimension of UV-B sensitivity was characterized by changes in plant growth attributes. Alterations in partitioning within and between plant organs constituted a secondary tier of UV-B responsiveness. Plant characteristics related to UV-B tolerance included lower growth rate, smaller epidermal cell surface area and higher UV-B-induced levels of UV-Babsorbing compounds. The results suggest overall UV-B tolerance for slower-growing populations from less productive habitats with higher natural UV-B irradiance.