Photosynthesis of birch (Betula pendula) is sensitive to springtime frost and ozone

Impacts of springtime frost and ozone enrichment, alone and in combination, on six birch (Betula pendula Roth) genotypes regenerated from a naturally occurring birch stand in southeastern Finland were studied. The seedlings were exposed to 65 ppb ozone (AOT40 (accumulated over a threshold of 40 ppb) exposure of 10.7 ppm.h) over 62 d in climate chambers, simulating spring conditions, and to -2 °C over two consecutive nights 33 d after the start of the experiment. The plants were measured for net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and concentrations of photosynthetic pigments, Rubisco, soluble proteins, carbohydrates, and macronutrients. Frost treatment caused a rapid 60%-77% decline in net photosynthesis and stomatal conductance rates. Recovery of net photosynthesis from frost was not complete during the subsequent 14 d, mainly because of impaired light capture through significant pigment loss and structural injuries. Concomitant ozone enrichment exacerbated the negative effect of frost on pigments and stomatal conductance. Both frost and ozone caused nutrient imbalance and increase in soluble proteins in leaves, whereas metabolism of carbohydrates was disturbed only when ozone was present. Responses to ozone and frost varied greatly among the genotypes, suggesting that there is a high capacity within the birch population to adapt to climate change through "preadapted" individuals.