Stable isotopes in tree ring cellulose and climatic change

Abstract

Relationships between the stable isotope contents (δ2H, δ13C) in dendrochronologically dated tree rings of firs and air temperature, relative humidity, as well as precipitation rate were investigated for 1959 to 1980. The δ13C-values, but not the δ2H-values show significant correlations with temperature, humidity, and precipitation. δ13C-values were used to construct a paleoclimatic record for the past millenium. This required correction for anthropogenic 13C-inputs since about 1850. The reconstructed temperatures are largely in agreement with presently-accepted variations in the recent past. -from Authors