Use of carbon isotope composition in monitoring environmental changes
Abstract
In this work we will discuss the suitability of carbon isotope analysis in plants for the assessment of environmental changes and their effects on crops and natural systems. For C3 species, carbon isotope composition (δ13C) of plant tissues constitutes an integrated record of the miscellaneous climatic and physiological factors that affect carbon assimilation and/or stomatal conductance. Here we present a literature review on the relationship between different environmental parameters and δ13C in both herbaceous plants and trees, including some examples and case studies. We will also consider the applicability of some of these relationships in palaeoecological studies, as well as for the assessment of climate change dynamics and its implications. Major advantages and limitations of this technique are further discussed.
Keywords
Citation
Ferrio, J.P., Voltas, J. and Araus, J.L. (2003), "Use of carbon isotope composition in monitoring environmental changes", Management of Environmental Quality, Vol. 14 No. 1, pp. 82-98. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777830310460405
Publisher
:MCB UP Ltd
Copyright © 2003, MCB UP Limited