Characterization of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus stoichiometry of
plant leaves in the riparian zone of Dahuofang Reservoir
Abstract
Carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) are essential nutrients
that promote plant growth, development and maintain the stability of
ecosystem structure and function. Analyzing the C, N, and P
characteristics of plant leaves aids in understanding the plant’s
nutrient status and nutrient limitation. Seasonal water level
fluctuations in riparian zones lead to various ecological problems, such
as reduced biodiversity and decreased ecosystem stability. Therefore,
comprehending the stoichiometric characteristics of riparian zone plants
and their nutrient response to plant traits is important for a deeper
insight into riparian zone forest ecosystems. In this study, we analyzed
the C, N, and P contents of the leaves of 44 woody plants in the
riparian zone of the Dahuofang Reservoir to investigate the
stoichiometric characteristics of C, N, and P of trees in the region.
The results showed that the average C content of the leaves in woody
plants was 446.9 g·kg-1; the average N content was 28.42 g·kg-1; and the
average P content was 2.26 g·kg-1. Compared to global and regional
scales, woody plants in the riparian zone of the Dahuofang Reservoir
exhibited higher N and P contents but lower N:P ratios. Compared to
other riparian zones, woody plant leaves in the riparian zone of
Dahuofang Reservoir had relatively high N content and N:P ratios.
Variations in plant stoichiometric characteristics across different life
forms were minimal, with only tree leaf P content significantly lower
than its in shrubs. There was no significant correlation between leaf C,
N, and P in woody plants, while specific leaf area showed a negative
correlation with leaf C content. It was preliminarily determined that
trees were more affected by N elements during the growing season. This
study provides a scientific foundation for riparian restoration and
environmental protection in the region.