Oak

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Life Sciences

Kinds of Oak

  • cork oak
  • holm oak
  • red oak
  • sessile oak
  • white oak

  • Terms modified by Oak

  • oak decline
  • oak forest
  • oak gambling screen
  • oak ridge
  • oak savanna
  • oak seedling
  • oak silkworm
  • oak species
  • oak stand
  • oak tree
  • oak wood

  • Selected Abstracts


    Physicochemical characterization of branched chain polymeric polypeptide carriers based on a poly-lysine backbone

    BIOPOLYMERS, Issue 3 2003
    I. B. Nagy
    Abstract A systematic study is reported on the physicochemical characteristics of two branched chain polymers (based on a poly- L -lysine backbone) with a general formula poly[Lys-(DL -Alam - Xi)], where X = Orn (OAK) or N -acetyl-Glu (Ac-EAK) and m , 3, using surface pressure and fluorescence polarization methods. These data are compared with those of the linear poly(L -Lys) from which OAK and Ac-EAK are derived. These two polymers show a moderate surface activity, able to form stable monomolecular layers at the air-water interface. Poly(L -Lys), the most hydrophilic, has the lowest surface activity. The interaction of these polymers with phospholipid bilayers either neutral or negatively charged was studied with vesicles labeled with two fluorescent probes: ANS and DPH. Results indicate that these polymers are able to accommodate in their internal structure, mainly through electrostatic interactions, a certain amount of ANS marker molecules, but fluorescence increases of the ANS-polypeptide complexes were so low that its influence in further polarization measurements could be discarded. After interaction with liposomes, these polymers induce an increase in the polarization of the probes, thus indicating a rigidification of the bilayers. Electrostatic forces seem to be very important in this interaction; cationic polymers are clearly more active, with PG-containing liposomes, than Ac-EAK. Moreover, in these assays poly(L -Lys) behaves as the more active compound. This fact is probably due to its major ability to form ,-helical structures that could insert easily in the bilayers. These results indicate that the polymeric structures studied can be used as carriers for biologically active molecules, because their interactions with bilayers remain soft and have a positive effect on the stability of the membranes. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 70: 323,335, 2003 [source]


    Existing in plenty: abundance, biomass and diversity of ciliates and meiofauna in small streams

    FRESHWATER BIOLOGY, Issue 4 2008
    JULIA REISS
    Summary 1. The ciliate and metazoan meiofaunal assemblages of two contrasting lowland streams in south-east England were examined over the period of a year, using a high taxonomic resolution. Monthly samples were taken from an oligotrophic, acid stream (Lone Oak) and a circumneutral, nutrient-rich stream (Pant) between March 2003 and February 2004. 2. We assessed the relative importance of ciliates and rotifers within the small-sized benthic assemblage with respect to their abundance, biomass and species richness. In addition, we examined the influence of abiotic and biotic parameters and season on the assemblage composition at two levels of taxonomic resolution (species and groups). 3. Ciliates dominated the assemblages numerically, with maximum densities of over 900 000 and 6 000 000 ind. m,2 in Lone Oak and Pant respectively. Rotifers and nematodes dominated meiofaunal densities, although their contribution to total meiofaunal biomass (maxima of 71.9 mgC m,2 in Lone Oak and of 646.8 mgC m,2 in the Pant) was low and rotifer biomass equalled that of ciliates. 4. Although the two streams differed in terms of total abundance of ciliates and meiofauna and shared only 7% of species, the relative proportion of groups was similar. Sediment grain size distribution (the percentile representing the 0.5,1 mm fraction) was correlated with assemblage structure at the species level, revealing the tight coupling between these small organisms and their physical environment. Seasonal changes in the relative abundance of groups followed similar patterns in both streams, and were correlated with the abundance of cyclopoid copepods and temperature. 5. Information on these highly abundant but often overlooked faunal groups is essential for estimates of overall abundance, biomass, species richness and productivity in the benthos, and as such has important implications for several areas of aquatic research, e.g. for those dealing with trophic dynamics. [source]


    The forests of presettlement New England, USA: spatial and compositional patterns based on town proprietor surveys

    JOURNAL OF BIOGEOGRAPHY, Issue 10-11 2002
    Charles V. Cogbill
    Abstract Aim, This study uses the combination of presettlement tree surveys and spatial analysis to produce an empirical reconstruction of tree species abundance and vegetation units at different scales in the original landscape. Location, The New England study area extends across eight physiographic sections, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Coastal Plain. The data are drawn from 389 original towns in what are now seven states in the north-eastern United States. These towns have early land division records which document the witness trees growing in the town before European settlement (c. seventeenth to eighteenth century ad). Methods, Records of witness trees from presettlement surveys were collated from towns throughout the study area (1.3 × 105 km2). Tree abundance was averaged over town-wide samples of multiple forest types, integrating proportions of taxa at a local scale (102 km2). These data were summarized into genus groups over the sample towns, which were then mapped [geographical information system (GIS)], classified (Cluster Analysis) and ordinated [detrended correspondence analysis (DCA)]. Modern climatic and topographic variables were also derived from GIS analyses for each town and all town attributes were quantitatively compared. Distributions of both individual species and vegetation units were analysed and displayed for spatial analysis of vegetation structure. Results, The tally of 153,932 individual tree citations show a dominant latitudinal trend in the vegetation. Spatial patterns are concisely displayed as pie charts of genus composition arrayed on sampled towns. Detailed interpolated frequency surfaces show spatial patterns of range and abundance of the dominant taxa. Oak, spruce, hickory and chestnut reach distinctive range limits within the study area. Eight vegetation clusters are distinguished. The northern vegetation is a continuous geographical sequence typified by beech while the southern vegetation is an amorphous group typified by oak. Main conclusions, The wealth of information recorded in the New England town presettlement surveys is an ideal data base to elucidate the natural patterns of vegetation over an extensive spatial area. The timing, town-wide scale, expansive coverage, quantitative enumeration and unbiased estimates are critical advantages of proprietor lotting surveys in determining original tree distributions. This historical,geographical approach produces a vivid reconstruction of the natural vegetation and species distributions as portrayed on maps. The spatial, vegetational and environmental patterns all demonstrate a distinct ,tension zone' separating ,northern hardwood' and ,central hardwood' towns. The presettlement northern hardwood forests, absolutely dominated by beech, forms a continuum responding to a complex climatic gradient of altitude and latitude. The oak forests to the south are distinguished by non-zonal units, probably affected by fire. Although at the continental scale, the forests seem to be a broad transition, at a finer scale they respond to topography such as the major valleys or the northern mountains. This study resets some preconceptions about the original forest, such as the overestimation of the role of pine, hemlock and chestnut and the underestimation of the distinctiveness of the tension zone. Most importantly, the forests of the past and their empirical description provide a basis for many ecological, educational and management applications today. [source]


    The Physicochemical Quality Characteristics of Charcoal Grilled Mackerels

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 3 2002
    M-Y. Kim
    ABSTRACT: : The effects of different fuel sources used in grilling on the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of mackerel were investigated. Oak and sawdust charcoals were used as fuel sources. The content of saturated fatty acids was increased during grilling. Histidine was the most predominant amino acid; grilling significantly increased glutamic acid. Mackerel shows a high inosine 5,-monophosphate content that is increased during grilling. Oak charcoal and sawdust charcoal contained high levels of potassium and sodium, respectively. Potassium content was increased at the surface muscle of oak charcoal grilled mackerel (OM). The flavor preference for OM was significantly (p < 0.05%) higher than for sawdust charcoal grilled mackerel. These results indicate that physicochemical and sensory properties of grilled foods can be affected by the fuel source. [source]


    The management of menopause with complementary and alternative medicine using an experimental model: Ovariectomized rats

    JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY RESEARCH (ELECTRONIC), Issue 2 2010
    Suely R. Bello
    Abstract Aim:, The purpose of this research was to assess the effects of the flower essences She Oak and Bush Fuchsia on behavioral anxiety in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Methods:, For four weeks, OVX rats received the flower essences She Oak, Bush Fuchsia or a combination of the two. After flower therapy, the animals were subjected to an elevated plus maze (EPM) behavioral anxiety-test. Cortisol blood level was also evaluated. Results:, OVX rats treated with the flower essence She Oak became less anxious and had more entries in the EPM open arms. On the other hand, OVX rats treated with the Bush Fuchsia essence spent more time in the EPM closed arms. This finding is similar to those obtained with controls. In addition, OVX rats that received She Oak and Bush Fuchsia in combination presented the same results as those receiving the Bush Fuchsia alone. Conclusions:, Our results suggest that the flower essence She Oak could have an anxiolytic effect in OVX rats, but that the combination therapy of the She Oak and Bush Fuchsia could avoid the effects of the She Oak. [source]


    Changes in management techniques and patterns of disease recurrence over time in patients with breast carcinoma treated with breast-conserving therapy at a single institution

    CANCER, Issue 4 2004
    Helen Pass M.D.
    Abstract BACKGROUND The authors reviewed changes in the initial clinical presentation, management techniques, and patterns of disease recurrence over time (1981,1996) in patients with breast carcinoma treated with breast-conserving therapy (BCT) at a single institution. The goals of the current study were to determine the frequency and use of optimal local and systemic therapy techniques and to evaluate the impact of these changes on treatment efficacy. METHODS Six hundred seven patients with American Joint Committee on Cancer Stage I or II invasive breast carcinomas treated with BCT at William Beaumont Hospital (Royal Oak, MI) constituted the study population. All patients received at least an excisional biopsy of the primary tumor, an axillary lymph node staging procedure, and postoperative radiotherapy (RT) (a median tumor bed dose of 61 Gray [Gy] was administered). All sides were reviewed by one pathologist. Numerous clinicopathologic and treatment-related factors were analyzed to monitor changes that occurred over time. Changes in patterns of disease recurrence and treatment efficacy over time also were analyzed. RESULTS Over the time period analyzed, changes at initial presentation included an increase in the mean age at diagnosis (age 56.1 years vs. 61.4 years; P < 0.001), a decrease in the number of patients with clinically palpable tumors (78% vs. 36%; P < 0.001), a decrease in the mean tumor size (2.2 cm vs. 1.6 cm; P < 0.001), but no change in the percentage of patients with negative lymph nodes (79% vs. 78%; P = 0.83). No differences over time were observed in mean tumor grade (2.0 vs. 1.9; P = 0.2) or the presence of angiolymphatic invasion (27% vs. 26%; P = 0.25). Changes in surgical management and pathologic assessment included the more frequent use of reexcision (46% vs. 81%; P < 0.001), larger mean total volumes of breast tissue specimens excised (115 cm3 vs. 189 cm3; P = 0.001), a larger percentage of patients with final negative surgical margins (74% vs. 97%; P < 0.001), and a small increase in the mean number of lymph nodes excised (13.8 lymph nodes vs. 14.1 lymph nodes; P = 0.01). The only other significant change in the pathologic management of patients over time included a doubling in the mean number of slides examined (10.6 slides vs. 21.1 slides; P < 0.001). Changes in adjuvant local and systemic therapy included an increase in the percentage of patients treated with > 60 Gy to the tumor bed (66% vs. 95%; P < 0.001), a doubling in the mean number of days from the last surgery to the start of RT (24 days vs. 50 days; P < 0.001), and a decrease in the use of regional lymph node RT (24% vs. 8%; P < 0.001). The use of adjuvant tamoxifen increased from 10% to 61% (P < 0.001). Finally, improvements were observed in the 5-year and 12-year actuarial rates of local disease recurrence (8% vs. 1% and 21% vs. 9%, respectively; P = 0.001) and distant metastases (12% vs. 4% and 22% vs. 9%, respectively; P = 0.006). No changes in the mean number of years to ipsilateral (6.5 years vs. 6.4 years; P = 0.59) or distant disease recurrence (4.6 years vs. 3.8 years; P = 0.73) were observed. CONCLUSIONS The impact of screening mammography and substantial changes in surgical, pathologic, RT, and systemic therapy recommendations were observed over time in the study population. These changes were associated with improvements in 5-year and 12-year local and distant control rates and suggested that improvements in outcome can be realized through adherence to best practice guidelines and continuous monitoring of treatment outcome data. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society [source]


    Multispecies and Multiscale Conservation Planning: Setting Quantitative Targets for Red-Listed Lichens on Ancient Oaks

    CONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 3 2010
    HEIDI PALTTO
    bosque de encino maduro; cantidad de hábitat; encino antiguo; escala espacial; líquenes en la lista roja Abstract:,Species occurrence in a habitat patch depends on local habitat and the amount of that habitat in the wider landscape. We used predictions from empirical landscape studies to set quantitative conservation criteria and targets in a multispecies and multiscale conservation planning effort. We used regression analyses to compare species richness and occurrence of five red-listed lichens on 50 ancient oaks (Quercus robur; 120,140 cm in diameter) with the density of ancient oaks in circles of varying radius from each individual oak. Species richness and the occurrence of three of the five species were best explained by increasing density of oaks within 0.5 km; one species was best explained by the density of oaks within 2 km, and another was best predicted by the density of oaks within 5 km. The minimum numbers of ancient oaks required for "successful conservation" was defined as the number of oaks required to obtain a predicted local occurrence of 50% for all species included or a predicted local occurrence of 80% for all species included. These numbers of oaks were calculated for two relevant landscape scales (1 km2 and 13 km2) that corresponded to various species responses, in such a way that calculations also accounted for local number of oaks. Ten and seven of the 50 ancient oaks surveyed were situated in landscapes that already fulfilled criteria for successful conservation when the 50% and 80% criteria, respectively, were used to define the level of successful conservation. For cost-efficient conservation, oak stands in the landscapes most suitable for successful conservation should be prioritized for conservation and management (e.g., grazing and planting of new oaks) at the expense of oak stands situated elsewhere. Resumen:,La ocurrencia de especies en un parche de hábitat depende del hábitat local y de la cantidad de ese hábitat en un paisaje más amplio. Utlizamos predicciones de estudios de paisaje empíricos para definir criterios y objetivos de conservación cuantitativos en un esfuerzo de planificación de la conservación para múltiples especies y escalas. Utilizamos análisis de regresión para comparar la riqueza y ocurrencia de especies de cinco líquenes en la lista roja sobre 20 encinos antiguos (Quercus robur; 120,140 cm de diámetro) con la densidad de encinos antiguos en círculos de radio variable desde cada encino individual. La riqueza y ocurrencia de tres de las cinco especies fue mejor explicada por el incremento de la densidad de encinos en 0.5 km; una especie fue mejor explicada por la densidad de encinos en 2 km, y la otra fue mejor pronosticada por la densidad de encinos en 5 km. Los números mínimos de encinos antiguos requeridos para una "conservación exitosa" fueron definidos como el número de encinos requeridos para obtener una ocurrencia local pronosticada de de 50% para todas las especies incluidas o una ocurrencia local pronosticada de 80% para todas las especies incluidas. Estos números de encinos fueron calculados para dos escalas de paisaje relevantes (1 km2 y 13 km2) que correspondieron a las respuestas de varias especies, de tal modo que los cálculos también incluyeron el número local de encinos. Diez y siete de los 50 encinos antiguos estaban situados en paisajes que ya cumplían criterios para conservación exitosa cuando los criterios de 50% y 80%, respectivamente, fueron usados para definir el nivel de conservación exitosa. Para una conservación redituable, los bosques de encinos en los paisajes más aptos para la conservación exitosa deberían ser priorizados para conservación y manejo (e. g., pastoreo y siembra de encinos nuevos) a costa de bosques de encino situados en otros lados. [source]


    Pathological gambling: an increasing public health problem

    ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2001
    Article first published online: 7 JUL 200
    Gambling has always existed, but only recently has it taken on the endlessly variable and accessible forms we know today. Gambling takes place when something valuable , usually money , is staked on the outcome of an event that is entirely unpredictable. It was only two decades ago that pathological gambling was formally recognized as a mental disorder, when it was included in the DSM-III in 1980. For most people, gambling is a relaxing activity with no negative consequences. For others, however, gambling becomes excessive. Pathological gambling is a disorder that manifests itself through the irrepressible urge to wager money. This disorder ultimately dominates the gambler's life, and has a multitude of negative consequences for both the gambler and the people they interact with, i.e. friends, family members, employers. In many ways, gambling might seem a harmless activity. In fact, it is not the act of gambling itself that is harmful, but the vicious cycle that can begin when a gambler wagers money they cannot afford to lose, and then continues to gamble in order to recuperate their losses. The gambler's ,tragic flaw' of logic lies in their failure to understand that gambling is governed solely by random, chance events. Gamblers fail to recognize this and continue to gamble, attempting to control outcomes by concocting strategies to ,beat the game'. Most, if not all, gamblers try in some way to predict the outcome of a game when they are gambling. A detailed analysis of gamblers' selfverbalizations reveals that most of them behave as though the outcome of the game relied on their personal ,skills'. From the gambler's perspective, skill can influence chance , but in reality, the random nature of chance events is the only determinant of the outcome of the game. The gambler, however, either ignores or simply denies this fundamental rule (1). Experts agree that the social costs of pathological gambling are enormous. Changes in gaming legislation have led to a substantial expansion of gambling opportunities in most industrialized countries around the world, mainly in Europe, America and Australia. Figures for the United States' leisure economy in 1996 show gross gambling revenues of $47.6 billion, which was greater than the combined revenue of $40.8 billion from film box offices, recorded music, cruise ships, spectator sports and live entertainment (2). Several factors appear to be motivating this growth: the desire of governments to identify new sources of revenue without invoking new or higher taxes; tourism entrepreneurs developing new destinations for entertainment and leisure; and the rise of new technologies and forms of gambling (3). As a consequence, prevalence studies have shown increased gambling rates among adults. It is currently estimated that 1,2% of the adult population gambles excessively (4, 5). Given that the prevalence of gambling is related to the accessibility of gambling activities, and that new forms of gambling are constantly being legalized throughout most western countries, this figure is expected to rise. Consequently, physicians and mental health professionals will need to know more about the diagnosis and treatment of pathological gamblers. This disorder may be under-diagnosed because, clinically, pathological gamblers usually seek help for the problems associated with gambling such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse, rather than for the excessive gambling itself. This issue of Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica includes the first national survey of problem gambling completed in Sweden, conducted by Volberg et al. (6). This paper is based on a large sample (N=9917) with an impressively high response rate (89%). Two instruments were used to assess gambling activities: the South Oaks Gambling Screen-Revised (SOGS-R) and an instrument derived from the DSM-IV criteria for pathological gambling. Current (1 year) and lifetime prevalence rates were collected. Results show that 0.6% of the respondents were classified as probable pathological gamblers, and 1.4% as problem gamblers. These data reveal that the prevalence of pathological gamblers in Sweden is significantly less than what has been observed in many western countries. The authors have pooled the rates of problem (1.4%) and probable pathological gamblers (0.6%), to provide a total of 2.0% for the current prevalence. This 2% should be interpreted with caution, however, as we do not have information on the long-term evolution of these subgroups of gamblers; for example, we do not know how many of each subgroup will become pathological gamblers, and how many will decrease their gambling or stop gambling altogether. Until this information is known, it would be preferable to keep in mind that only 0.6% of the Swedish population has been identified as pathological gamblers. In addition, recent studies show that the SOGS-R may be producing inflated estimates of pathological gambling (7). Thus, future research in this area might benefit from the use of an instrument based on DSM criteria for pathological gambling, rather than the SOGS-R only. Finally, the authors suggest in their discussion that the lower rate of pathological gamblers obtained in Sweden compared to many other jurisdictions may be explained by the greater availability of games based on chance rather than games based on skill or a mix of skill and luck. Before accepting this interpretation, researchers will need to demonstrate that the outcomes of all games are determined by other factor than chance and randomness. Many studies have shown that the notion of randomness is the only determinant of gambling (1). Inferring that skill is an important issue in gambling may be misleading. While these are important issues to consider, the Volberg et al. survey nevertheless provides crucial information about gambling in a Scandinavian country. Gambling will be an important issue over the next few years in Sweden, and the publication of the Volberg et al. study is a landmark for the Swedish community (scientists, industry, policy makers, etc.). This paper should stimulate interesting discussions and inspire new, much-needed scientific investigations of pathological gambling. Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica Guido Bondolfi and Robert Ladouceur Invited Guest Editors References 1.,LadouceurR & WalkerM. The cognitive approach to understanding and treating pathological gambling. In: BellackAS, HersenM, eds. Comprehensive clinical psychology. New York: Pergamon, 1998:588 , 601. 2.,ChristiansenEM. Gambling and the American economy. In: FreyJH, ed. Gambling: socioeconomic impacts and public policy. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 1998:556:36 , 52. 3.,KornDA & ShafferHJ. Gambling and the health of the public: adopting a public health perspective. J Gambling Stud2000;15:289 , 365. 4.,VolbergRA. Problem gambling in the United States. J Gambling Stud1996;12:111 , 128. 5.,BondolfiG, OsiekC, FerreroF. Prevalence estimates of pathological gambling in Switzerland. Acta Psychiatr Scand2000;101:473 , 475. 6.,VolbergRA, AbbottMW, RönnbergS, MunckIM. Prev-alence and risks of pathological gambling in Sweden. Acta Psychiatr Scand2001;104:250 , 256. 7.,LadouceurR, BouchardC, RhéaumeNet al. Is the SOGS an accurate measure of pathological gambling among children, adolescents and adults?J Gambling Stud2000;16:1 , 24. [source]


    Acclimation of photosynthesis and respiration to elevated atmospheric CO2 in two Scrub Oaks

    GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY, Issue 4 2002
    Graham J. Hymus
    Abstract For two species of oak, we determined whether increasing atmospheric CO2 concentration (Ca) would decrease leaf mitochondrial respiration (R) directly, or indirectly owing to their growth in elevated Ca, or both. In particular, we tested whether acclimatory decreases in leaf-Rubisco content in elevated Ca would decrease R associated with its maintenance. This hypothesis was tested in summer 2000 on sun and shade leaves of Quercus myrtifolia Willd. and Quercus geminata Small. We also measured R on five occasions between summer 1999 and 2000 on leaves of Q. myrtifolia. The oaks were grown in the field for 4 years, in either current ambient or elevated (current ambient + 350 µmol mol,1) Ca, in open-top chambers (OTCs). For Q. myrtifolia, an increase in Ca from 360 to 710 µmol mol,1 had no direct effect on R at any time during the year. In April 1999, R in young Q. myrtifolia leaves was significantly higher in elevated Ca,the only evidence for an indirect effect of growth in elevated Ca. Leaf R was significantly correlated with leaf nitrogen (N) concentration for the sun and shade leaves of both the species of oak. Acclimation of photosynthesis in elevated Ca significantly reduced maximum RuBP-saturated carboxylation capacity (Vc max) for both the sun and shade leaves of only Q. geminata. However, we estimated that only 11,12% of total leaf N was invested in Rubisco; consequently, acclimation in this plant resulted in a small effect on N and an insignificant effect on R. In this study measurements of respiration and photosynthesis were made on material removed from the field; this procedure had no effect on gas exchange properties. The findings of this study were applicable to R expressed either per unit leaf area or unit dry weight, and did not support the hypothesis that elevated Ca decreases R directly, or indirectly owing to acclimatory decreases in Rubisco content. [source]


    Multispecies and Multiscale Conservation Planning: Setting Quantitative Targets for Red-Listed Lichens on Ancient Oaks

    CONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 3 2010
    HEIDI PALTTO
    bosque de encino maduro; cantidad de hábitat; encino antiguo; escala espacial; líquenes en la lista roja Abstract:,Species occurrence in a habitat patch depends on local habitat and the amount of that habitat in the wider landscape. We used predictions from empirical landscape studies to set quantitative conservation criteria and targets in a multispecies and multiscale conservation planning effort. We used regression analyses to compare species richness and occurrence of five red-listed lichens on 50 ancient oaks (Quercus robur; 120,140 cm in diameter) with the density of ancient oaks in circles of varying radius from each individual oak. Species richness and the occurrence of three of the five species were best explained by increasing density of oaks within 0.5 km; one species was best explained by the density of oaks within 2 km, and another was best predicted by the density of oaks within 5 km. The minimum numbers of ancient oaks required for "successful conservation" was defined as the number of oaks required to obtain a predicted local occurrence of 50% for all species included or a predicted local occurrence of 80% for all species included. These numbers of oaks were calculated for two relevant landscape scales (1 km2 and 13 km2) that corresponded to various species responses, in such a way that calculations also accounted for local number of oaks. Ten and seven of the 50 ancient oaks surveyed were situated in landscapes that already fulfilled criteria for successful conservation when the 50% and 80% criteria, respectively, were used to define the level of successful conservation. For cost-efficient conservation, oak stands in the landscapes most suitable for successful conservation should be prioritized for conservation and management (e.g., grazing and planting of new oaks) at the expense of oak stands situated elsewhere. Resumen:,La ocurrencia de especies en un parche de hábitat depende del hábitat local y de la cantidad de ese hábitat en un paisaje más amplio. Utlizamos predicciones de estudios de paisaje empíricos para definir criterios y objetivos de conservación cuantitativos en un esfuerzo de planificación de la conservación para múltiples especies y escalas. Utilizamos análisis de regresión para comparar la riqueza y ocurrencia de especies de cinco líquenes en la lista roja sobre 20 encinos antiguos (Quercus robur; 120,140 cm de diámetro) con la densidad de encinos antiguos en círculos de radio variable desde cada encino individual. La riqueza y ocurrencia de tres de las cinco especies fue mejor explicada por el incremento de la densidad de encinos en 0.5 km; una especie fue mejor explicada por la densidad de encinos en 2 km, y la otra fue mejor pronosticada por la densidad de encinos en 5 km. Los números mínimos de encinos antiguos requeridos para una "conservación exitosa" fueron definidos como el número de encinos requeridos para obtener una ocurrencia local pronosticada de de 50% para todas las especies incluidas o una ocurrencia local pronosticada de 80% para todas las especies incluidas. Estos números de encinos fueron calculados para dos escalas de paisaje relevantes (1 km2 y 13 km2) que correspondieron a las respuestas de varias especies, de tal modo que los cálculos también incluyeron el número local de encinos. Diez y siete de los 50 encinos antiguos estaban situados en paisajes que ya cumplían criterios para conservación exitosa cuando los criterios de 50% y 80%, respectivamente, fueron usados para definir el nivel de conservación exitosa. Para una conservación redituable, los bosques de encinos en los paisajes más aptos para la conservación exitosa deberían ser priorizados para conservación y manejo (e. g., pastoreo y siembra de encinos nuevos) a costa de bosques de encino situados en otros lados. [source]


    Potential Effects of Passenger Pigeon Flocks on the Structure and Composition of Presettlement Forests of Eastern North America

    CONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 6 2003
    JOSHUA W. ELLSWORTH
    We suggest that the activities of roosting and nesting Passenger Pigeons caused widespread, frequent disturbances in presettlement eastern forests through tree limb and stem breakage and nutrient deposition from pigeon excrement. We suspect that the deposition of fine fuels resulting from such disturbances may have influenced fire intensity and frequency in presettlement forests. Further, we propose that consumption of vast quantities of acorns by pigeons during the spring breeding season may partially explain the dominance of white oak (Quercus alba) throughout much of the presettlement north-central hardwoods region. Consequently, the pigeon's extinction may have facilitated the increase and expansion of northern red oak (Quercus rubra) during the twentieth century. Although it is difficult to accurately quantify how physical and chemical disturbances and mast consumption by Passenger Pigeon flocks affected forest ecology, we suspect they shaped landscape structure and species composition in eastern forests prior to the twentieth century. We believe their impact should be accounted for in estimates of the range of natural variability of conditions in eastern hardwood forests. Resumen:,Consideramos los posibles efectos que pudieron haber tenido parvadas de Palomas Migratorias (Ectopistes migratorius) sobre el régimen de perturbación y la composición de especies de bosques en Norte América oriental antes de la colonización. Sugerimos que las actividades de perchado y anidación de las palomas causaron perturbaciones frecuentes y extensas en los bosques orientales antes de la colonización por medio de la ruptura de ramas y tallos de árboles y la deposición de nutrientes del excremento de las palomas. Sospechamos que la deposición de combustibles resultantes de tales perturbaciones pudo haber influido en la intensidad y frecuencia de incendios forestales. Más aún, proponemos que el consumo de grandes cantidades de bellotas por las palomas en la primavera puede parcialmente explicar la dominancia de roble blanco (Quercus alba) en muchos de los bosques nor-orientales. En consecuencia, la extinción de la paloma pudo haber facilitado el incremento y expansión del roble rojo (Quercus rubra) durante el siglo veinte. Aunque es difícil cuantificar con precisión como las perturbaciones físicas y químicas y el consumo masivo por parvadas de palomas migratorias afectaron a la ecología forestal, sospechamos que modelaron la estructura del paisaje y la composición de especies en los bosques orientales antes del siglo veinte. Creemos que su impacto debería ser considerado cuando se hacen estimaciones del rango de variabilidad natural de las condiciones en bosques orientales de maderas duras. [source]


    Airborne fungal spores, pollen grains, and vegetable cells in routine Papanicolaou smears

    DIAGNOSTIC CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 6 2004
    Ph.D., Rafael Martínez-Girón M.D.
    Abstract The objective was to demonstrate the presence of airborne fungal spores, pollen grains, and vegetable cells in smears and establish their significance. Microscopic examination was of smears stained by the Papanicolaou technique. We found several types of airborne spores (Alternaria, Exserohilum, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Epicoccum, Curvularia, and Ascosmycete), pollen grains (Lilium, bullrush, Pinus, Acacia, hazelnut, and oak), and several types of vegetable cells. The existence of these structures may be due to intrinsic or to extrinsic contamination of the sample. Anemophilous fungi spores and pollen grains have been shown to possess great allergenic capacity. Pollen grains and vegetable cells may be mistaken for certain microorganisms or malignant cells. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:381,385. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    Past distribution and ecology of the cork oak (Quercus suber) in the Iberian Peninsula: a pollen-analytical approach

    DIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTIONS, Issue 1 2000
    J. S. Carrión
    Abstract., This study presents pollen-analytical data from continental and offshore Iberian Peninsula sites that include pollen curves of Quercus suber, to provide information on the past distribution and ecology of the cork oak (Q. suber). Results centre on a new pollen record of Navarrés (Valencia, eastern Spain), which shows that the cork oak survived regionally during the Upper Pleistocene and was important during a mid-Holocene replacement of a local pine forest by Quercus -dominated communities. This phenomenon appears linked to the recurrence of fire and reinforces the value of the cork oak for reforestation programmes in fire-prone areas. In addition to Navarrés, other Late Quaternary pollen sequences (Sobrestany, Casablanca-Almenara, Padul, SU 8103, SU8113, 8057B) suggest last glacial survival of the cork oak in southern and coastal areas of the Peninsula and North Africa. Important developments also occur from the Late Glacial to the middle Holocene, not only in the west but also in the eastern Peninsula. It is suggested that, in the absence of human influence, Q. suber would develop in non-monospecific forests, sharing the arboreal stratum both with other sclerophyllous and deciduous Quercus and Pinus species. [source]


    Is there a higher risk for herbivore outhreaks after cold mast years?

    ECOGRAPHY, Issue 6 2000
    An analysis of two plant/herbivore series from southern Norway
    Historical data on two plant-herbivore interactions from southern Norway were used to test the hypothesis that the degree of herbivore outbreaks in post-mast years is negatively related to summer temperatures in the mast year, because plants are more depressed after a high seed production if temperatures and thus the photosynthetic activity is low. The plant species were the sessile oak Quercus petraea and the bilberry Vaceinium myrtillus. For the former species post-mast years were identified from reports given by the local forest authorities for the period 1930,48, and from acorn export curves for the period 1949,98, For the latter species, post-mast years were identified mainly from bilberry export curves for the period 1920,31, from game reports for the period 1932,78. and from diary notes for the period 1979,87. The herbivore species used were the green oak leaf roller moth Tortrix viridana and the capercaillie Tetrao urogallus. Eight moth outbreaks on oak forests were reported by the forest authorities in the period 1930,98, and they all started in a post-mast year of the sessile oak. There were however also eleven post-mast years without moth outbreaks. According to game reports, observations and autumn counts, all increases in the autumn population size of capercaillie during 1920 88 occurred in or after a year with high bilberry production. Among i8 post-mast years, there were seven with strong increase, seven with slight or moderate increase, and four with no increase. For both herbivore species, post-mast years with marked population increases had significantly lower summer temperatures in the preceding (mast) year than had post-mast years with no or slight increases. For moth populations there also was a negative effect of high temperatures in April, possibly because moth eggs tend to hatch too early relative lo budburst if spring temperatures are high. For the capercaillie, high amount of precipitation in June , July seemed to have some negative impact on the autumn population sizes, as also found in previous studies. [source]


    Gall wasps and their parasitoids in cork oak fragmented forests

    ECOLOGICAL ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 1 2007
    GUILLEM CHUST
    Abstract 1.,This paper explores the potential effects of host-plant fragmentation on cork oak gall wasp populations (Cynipidae, Hymenoptera) and on their predators, lethal inquilines, and parasitoids. To address this objective, galls were collected across a gradient of cork oak (Quercus suber) forest fragmentation in the East Pyrenees (Albera, Spain), and they were incubated to obtain the parasitism rates. 2.,Two hypotheses were tested: (1) Host-plant fragmentation may induce a decline in gall wasp populations because of area and isolation effects on local extinction and dispersal; as a consequence of that, parasitoids may decline even more strongly in fragmented habitats than their prey. (2) Host-plant fragmentation may cause a decline in gall wasp parasitoid populations that, in turn, can lead to an ecological release in their prey populations. 3.,Among the eight cork oak gall wasps sampled in the study area of Albera, the gall abundances of three species (Callirhytis glandium, Callirhytis rufescens, and Andricus hispanicus) were significantly related to forest fragmentation. The overall abundance of gall wasps was affected by a radius of , 890 m surrounding landscape, presenting constant abundances with forest loss until forest cover is reduced at , 40%; below that value the abundance increased rapidly. Three inquilines and 23 parasitoids species were recorded after gall incubation. In 25 cases, species of inquilines and parasitoids were newly recorded for the corresponding host in the Iberian peninsula. 4.,Although the overall parasitism rate was high (1.1), it was uncorrelated with fragmentation and with overall cynipid abundance. These results indicate that host-plant fragmentation was correlated with higher abundance of gall wasps, whereas the parasitism rate could not explain this hyper-abundance in small forest fragments. [source]


    Stem galls affect oak foliage with potential consequences for herbivory

    ECOLOGICAL ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 3 2004
    L. K. Foss
    Abstract., ,1. On two dates, foliar characteristics of pin oak, Quercus palustris, infested with stem galls caused by the horned oak gall, Callirhytis cornigera, were investigated, and the consequences for subsequent herbivory assessed. 2. Second-instar caterpillars of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar, preferred foliage from ungalled trees. 3. Ungalled trees broke bud earlier than their galled counterparts. 4. Galled trees produced denser leaves with higher nitrogen and tannin concentrations, but foliar carbohydrates did not differ among galled and ungalled trees. 5. Concentrations of foliar carbohydrates in both galled and ungalled trees increased uniformly between the two assay dates. Nitrogen concentrations were greater in leaves from galled trees, and decreased uniformly in galled and ungalled trees over time. Foliar tannins were also greater in foliage from galled trees early in the season; however, foliar tannins declined seasonally in galled tissue so that by the second assay date there was no difference in tannin concentrations between galled and ungalled foliage. 6. In spite of differences in foliar characteristics, performance of older, fourth instar gypsy moth caterpillars did not differ between galled and ungalled trees. [source]


    Host shifting by Operophtera brumata into novel environments leads to population differentiation in life-history traits

    ECOLOGICAL ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 5 2003
    Adam J. Vanbergen
    Abstract., 1. Operophtera brumata L. (Lepidoptera: Geometridae), a polyphagous herbivore usually associated with deciduous trees such as oak Quercus robur L., has expanded its host range to include the evergreen species heather Calluna vulgaris (L.) Hull and, most recently, Sitka spruce Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carrière. 2. Phenology, morphology, and survival of O. brumata were measured at several life-history stages in populations from the three different host plant communities sampled from a range of geographical locations. The data were used to test for population differences, reflecting the marked differences in host-plant secondary chemistry, growth form, and site factors such as climate. The hypothesis that spruce-feeding populations originated from populations feeding on moorland, commonly sites of coniferous afforestation, was also tested. 3. Altitude, not host plant species, was the major influence on the timing of adult emergence. An effect of insect population independent of altitude was found, implying that additional unidentified factors contribute to this phenological variation. Larval survival and adult size varied between populations reared on different host plant species. Survival of larvae was affected negatively when reared on the novel host plant, Sitka spruce, versus the natal plant (oak or heather) but oak and heather-sourced insects did not differ in survivorship on Sitka spruce. 4. Host range extension into novel environments has resulted in population differentiation to the local climate, demonstrating that host shifts pose challenges to the herbivore population greater than those offered by the host plant alone. The hypothesis that Sitka spruce feeding populations have arisen predominantly from moorland feeding populations was not supported. [source]


    Species-specific differences in oak foliage affect preference and performance of gypsy moth caterpillars

    ENTOMOLOGIA EXPERIMENTALIS ET APPLICATA, Issue 2 2003
    L. K. Foss
    Abstract The gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.) (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae), is an introduced defoliator that preferentially feeds on oaks, Quercus spp. (Fagaceae) in the north-eastern USA. As the gypsy moth expands its geographic range, the extensive oak component in forests and urban environments of the USA assure its successful establishment. Given their economic and ecological importance, and the gypsy moth's potential to cause mortality, we evaluated caterpillar preference and performance on various oaks prevalent in the central hardwoods region. Most of the physical and chemical characteristics we measured, from budbreak phenology to foliar chemistry, varied significantly among the oak species tested. Similarly, insect preference and performance varied significantly, though not always in predictable ways. Caterpillar preference was compared for black, Q. velutina Lamarck, burr, Q. macrocarpa Michaux, cherrybark, Q. pagoda Rafinesque, northern red, Q. rubra L., pin, Q. palustris Muenchhausen, swamp white, Q. bicolor Willdenow, white, Q. alba L., and willow, Q. phellos L., oaks. Gypsy moth preference was greatest for black and burr, and least for northern red, pin, and willow oaks. We assessed foliar characteristics and caterpillar performance on foliage from burr, cherrybark, northern red, pin, and willow oaks. Caterpillar preference did not always correlate with performance. Gypsy moth consumption and growth were highest, and development most rapid, on pin oak, which had high nitrogen and tannin levels, and was among the least preferred. Northern red and willow oaks were also among the least preferred and were the least suitable tested, producing caterpillars with moderate to low consumption and growth rates, as well as the longest development. Northern red oak contained the lowest foliar tannins; willow oak foliage was lowest in carbohydrates and nitrogen. Our results suggest that a combination of foliar characteristics may be responsible for gypsy moth preference and performance, and that an optimal combination of foliar components serves to maximize host suitability. These data will provide information useful for planning and managing urban forests in the presence of expanding gypsy moth populations. [source]


    Survival of Erwinia amylovora on pears and on fruit containers in cold storage and outdoors

    EPPO BULLETIN, Issue 1 2004
    P. Ceroni
    The survival of Erwinia amylovora during cold storage or outdoors may be a relevant factor in the spread of fireblight. The survival of E. amylovora was studied in cold storage on pear fruits, on container materials and on packaging paper, and outdoors on wood (oak and poplar) and on polyethylene. The samples were contaminated with a bacterial suspension of a mutant strain, washed, concentrated by centrifugation, and the final concentrates were used for plate counting. In cold storage, reisolation from the calyx was successful even after 101 days, whereas on pear surfaces, it was unsuccessful after just 1 day. On oak and poplar wood, reisolation was obtained up to 77 days in cold storage for both types of wood, but only up to 27 and 55 days, respectively, outdoors. Reisolation from packaging paper in cold storage was successful up to 14 days. Reisolation from polyethylene outdoors was unsuccessful after 24 h. Survival curves were calculated for each material. On the basis of a model of inoculum transmission, and using the survival curves, a phytosanitary risk period for the different types of materials was estimated. [source]


    Non-enzymatic hydrolysis of fluorescein diacetate (FDA) in a Mediterranean oak (Quercus ilex L.) litter

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SOIL SCIENCE, Issue 2 2008
    E. Alarcón-Gutiérrez
    Summary We show the presence of interfering substances when the total microbial activity in litter samples is measured with fluorescein diacetate (FDA), and we propose some methodological modifications to avoid such interference. Three distinct litter layers (the OhLn, the OhLv and the OhLf) of evergreen oak (Quercus ilex L.) were characterized by 13C CPMAS NMR and the spectra show that the recalcitrant aromatic and phenolic compounds increase with the degree of degradation of litter. A wide range of sources of interference in the hydrolysis of FDA was found. To understand the origin of this interference, sterilized litter materials (i.e. ,-irradiated or autoclaved) and a wide range of organic substances (i.e. amino acids, glucose, sorbitol and organic humic acids) were investigated. Insignificant differences on the FDA hydrolysis activity (FDA activity) were found in the ,-irradiated and non-irradiated OhLn litter, indicating that ,-irradiation does not destroy enzymes. Conversely, after heat-sterilization of litter, samples showed FDA activity corresponding to 60, 34.8 and 30.8% (in the OhLn, the OhLv and the OhLf layers, respectively) of that of control litters. This indicates the presence of non-enzymatic interfering substances in the FDA assays. As the humification and litter depth increased, hydrolysis of FDA due to interferences decreased, indicating degradation and/or chelation of interfering substances. We hypothesize that lysine, arginine, histidine and cysteine are mainly responsible for the hydrolysis of FDA. We suggest that the use of phosphate buffer (50 mm, pH 7.0) with incubation <,30 minutes, in combination with a temperature between 30 and 40°C, produces insignificant interference in the determination of the final FDA activity in litter samples. [source]


    The effect of organic acids on base cation leaching from the forest floor under six North American tree species

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SOIL SCIENCE, Issue 2 2001
    F. A. Dijkstra
    Summary Organic acidity and its degree of neutralization in the forest floor can have large consequences for base cation leaching under different tree species. We investigated the effect of organic acids on base cation leaching from the forest floor under six common North American tree species. Forest floor samples were analysed for exchangeable cations and forest floor solutions for cations, anions, simple organic acids and acidic properties. Citric and lactic acid were the most common of the acids under all species. Malonic acid was found mainly under Tsuga canadensis (hemlock) and Fagus grandifolia (beech). The organic acids were positively correlated with dissolved organic carbon and contributed significantly to the organic acidity of the solution (up to 26%). Forest floor solutions under Tsuga canadensis contained the most dissolved C and the most weak acidity among the six tree species. Under Tsuga canadensis we also found significant amounts of strong acidity caused by deposition of sulphuric acid from the atmosphere and by strong organic acids. Base cation exchange was the most important mechanism by which acidity was neutralized. Organic acids in solution from Tsuga canadensis, Fagus grandifolia, Acer rubrum (red maple) and Quercus rubra (red oak) were hardly neutralized while much more organic acidity was neutralized for Acer saccharum (sugar maple) and Fraxinus americana (white ash). We conclude that quantity, nature and degree of neutralization of organic acids differ among the different tree species. While the potential for base cation leaching with organic acids from the forest floor is greatest under Tsuga canadensis, actual leaching with organic anions is greatest under Acer saccharum and Fraxinus americana under which the forest floor contains more exchangeable cations than does the strongly acidified forest floor under Tsuga canadensis. [source]


    Comparative study and molecular characterization of ectomycorrhizas in Tilia americana and Quercus pubescens with Tuber brumale

    FEMS MICROBIOLOGY LETTERS, Issue 1 2002
    G Giomaro
    Abstract Mycorrhizas of Tuber brumale on Quercus pubescens and Tilia americana were obtained in vitro using micropropagated plantlets. Mycelium pure cultures were used for inoculation. Both the mycelium used for the inoculations, as well as the mycorrhizas which were obtained, were identified using several molecular approaches: analysis of the ITS region, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) specific primers and sequencing. The mycorrhizas were described from a morphological standpoint. Some of their biometric characteristics were different in bass-wood than they were in oak, thus showing the influence of the host plant on several of the morphological features believed to be necessary for the identification of the species. Considering the variability of their morphological characteristics, molecular analysis proved to be a necessary tool for the recognition of the mycorrhizas of Tuber spp. [source]


    Dynamics of yeast populations recovered from decaying leaves in a nonpolluted stream: a 2-year study on the effects of leaf litter type and decomposition time

    FEMS YEAST RESEARCH, Issue 4 2007
    Ana Sampaio
    Abstract Here we report on the results of a survey of the yeast populations occurring on submerged leaves (alder, eucalyptus and oak) in a natural mountain stream, during different phases of their decomposition and through two consecutive years. Leaf litter mass loss, total yeast counts, Shannon,Weiner index (H,), yeast community structure and physiologic abilities were analyzed to evaluate the dynamics of yeast communities during decay. Seventy-two yeast taxa were recorded, and in all litter types, species of basidiomycetous affinity predominated over ascomycetous ones. Discriminant analysis of presence/absence data (yeast species) showed significant differences both among substrate types (P<0.0026) and with decomposition time (P<0.0001). Carbon and nitrogen source utilization by yeast strains also varied with the substrate (P<0.0001) and decomposition time (P<0.0001). Further conclusions were that: (1) all litter types have in common ubiquitous yeast species, such as Cryptococcus albidus, Debaryomyces hansenii and Rhodotorula glutinis, among the common 20 yeast species; (2) only a few species were dominant, and most species were rare, being recorded once or twice throughout decomposition; and (3) the order of yeast appearance, and their substrate assimilation patterns, strongly suggest a succession phenomenon. Finally, explanations for the distribution patterns and variations in yeast communities are discussed. [source]


    Involvement of Phytophthora species in white oak (Quercus alba) decline in southern Ohio

    FOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 5 2010
    Y. Balci
    Summary This study was initiated to investigate the possible role of Phytophthora species in white oak decline (Quercus alba) in southern Ohio at Scioto Trail State Forest. Surveys demonstrated the presence of four species of Phytophthora including one novel species. By far, the most common species was P. cinnamomi; P. citricola and P. cambivora were isolated infrequently. In few instances, P. cinnamomi was isolated from fine roots and necroses on larger roots. No special pattern of incidence was found, but P. cinnamomi was more commonly isolated from greater Integrated Moisture Index values suggesting moist lower bottomlands favour this Phytophthora species. When tree crown condition was examined relative to the presence of Phytophthora, no significant association was found. However, roots of declining P. cinnamomi -infested trees had 2.5 times less fine roots than non-infested and healthy trees, which was significantly different. The population densities of P. cinnamomi from declining trees were significantly greater than from healthy trees, suggesting increased pathogen activity that has the potential to cause dieback and decline and possibly the cause of a reduced fine root amount found on declining trees. [source]


    Physiological responses of cork oak and holm oak to infection by fungal pathogens involved in oak decline

    FOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 4 2009
    B. T. Linaldeddu
    Summary The aim of this research was to study the changes in net photosynthesis and stomatal conductance values in 3-year-old cork oak and holm oak seedlings growing in natural conditions and inoculated with Apiognomonia quercina, Biscogniauxia mediterranea, Botryosphaeria corticola and Pleurophoma cava. Throughout the 4-month experimental period, the evolution of visual external symptoms and the values of physiological variables were periodically recorded. All pathogens caused stem lesions around the infection point; however, the lesions caused by B. corticola were longer in both oak species. On cork oak seedlings, all pathogens induced a significant and gradual reduction in net photosynthesis and stomatal conductance values, whereas other physiological disturbances were induced only by B. corticola infections on holm oak seedlings. [source]


    Seasonal and spatial mortality patterns of holm oak seedlings in a reforested soil infected with Phytophthora cinnamomi

    FOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 6 2005
    M. C. Rodríguez-Molina
    Summary The viability of 1-year-old holm oak (Quercus ilex) seedlings in a soil naturally infected with Phytophthora cinnamomi was studied during 2 consecutive years in a plot located in south-western Spain. In both years, total mortality during autumn and winter was not noticeable (<2.1%). In spring, mortality levels were higher (8.3,4.6%), especially the first year. A steep increase in total mortality occurred in summer, both in the first (11.4%) and second (24.2%) year, but mortality attributable to P. cinnamomi was 1.9 and 7.6%, respectively. Thus, 2 years after planting, total cumulative mortality was 43.4%, and that attributable to P. cinnamomi 9.6% (i.e. 22.1% of total mortality). Fungus-derived mortality followed a spatially aggregated pattern in the reforestation plot, suggesting a clustered distribution of the inoculum in the soil. Furthermore, mortality by P. cinnamomi was also associated with nearness of infected adult trees in the plot. Results obtained are discussed in the framework of seasonal water deficit, P. cinnamomi damage, weed competition and sanitation techniques to be used in declined holm oak stands in Spain. Résumé La viabilité de semis de chênes verts d'un an dans un sol naturellement infecté par P. cinnamomi a été suivie pendant deux années consécutives dans une parcelle du sud-ouest de l'Espagne. La mortalité en automne et hiver a été négligeable (<2.1%) au cours des deux années. La mortalité a été plus forte au printemps (8.3 ,4.6%), particulièrement la première année. Un pic de mortalité a été observé pendant l'été, aussi bien la première (11.4%) que la deuxième année (24.2%) mais la mortalité attribuable àP. cinnamomi n'est que de 1.9% et 7.6% respectivement. Deux ans après plantation, la mortalité cumulée est de 43.4%, dont 9.6% attribuable àP. cinnamomi (22% de la mortalité totale). La mortalité associée à l'agent pathogène présente une agrégation spatiale dans la parcelle reboisée, suggérant une distribution en agrégats de l'inoculum dans le sol. De plus cette mortalité est associée à la proximitéà des arbres infectés dans la parcelle. Les résultats sont discutés dans la perspective du déficit hydrique estival, des dégâts causés par P. cinnamomi, de la compétition herbacée et des techniques sanitaires à utiliser dans les peuplements dépérissants de chênes verts en Espagne. Zusammenfassung Während zwei aufeinander folgenden Jahren wurde die Überlebensrate von einjährigen Steineichen (Quercus ilex)-Sämlingen in einem natürlich mit Phytophthora cinnamomi infizierten Boden auf einer Versuchsfläche in Süd-West-Spanien untersucht. In beiden Jahren war die Mortalität im Herbst und Winter sehr gering (<2.1%). Im Frühling lag die Absterberate besonders im ersten Jahr höher (8,3,4,6%). Im Sommer stieg die Gesamtmortalität stark an, im ersten Jahr betrug sie 11,4%, im zweiten Jahr 24,2%, jedoch lagen die P. cinnamomi zuzuordnenden Raten bei nur 1,9 bzw. 7,6%. Somit lag die Gesamtmortalität zwei Jahre nach der Pflanzung bei 43,4%, die P. cinnamomi zuzuordnende Mortalität bei 9,6% (d.h. 22,1% der abgestorbenen Pflanzen). Die pilzbedingte Mortalität war in der Aufforstungsfläche räumlich aggregiert, was auf eine klumpige Verteilung des Inokulums im Boden schliessen lässt. Zudem war die Mortalität durch P. cinnamomi mit der Nähe zu infizierten adulten Bäumen assoziiert. Diese Ergebnisse werden in Zusammenhang mit jahreszeitlichem Wassermangel, Schäden durch P. cinnamomi, Konkurrenz durch Unkräuter und mögliche phytosanitäre Massnahmen an Standorten mit absterbenden Steineichen diskutiert. [source]


    Reaction of Armillaria ostoyae to forest soil microfungi

    FOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 3 2004
    H. Kwa
    Summary Fungi isolated from the oak (Quercus robur) rhizosphere were tested for their effects on rhizomorph formation and growth of 16 isolates of Armillaria ostoyae sampled in three localities in western Poland. The number of rhizomorphs, number of rhizomorph apices, and rhizomorph length and weight increased most in the presence of Penicillium lanosum, Penicillium notatum, Cylindrocarpon destructans, Penicillium spinulosum and Mycelium radicis atrovirens , and, to a lesser extent, in the presence of Nectria grammicospora. Inhibition of rhizomorph formation was caused by Trichoderma hamatum and Trichoderma viride in two A. ostoyae isolates and by M. radicis atrovirens , and P. spinulosum in one A. ostoyae isolate. It is suggested that variation in sensitivity to microbial stimulation within A. ostoyae is associated with the environmental and nutritional conditions of its original habitat. Isolates from nutrition-rich localities, with 20% of the land area covered by deciduous trees, were particularly susceptible to stimulation by rhizosphere fungi. Résumé Les champignons isolés de la rhizosphère de chêne (Quercus robur) ont été testés pour leurs effets sur la formation et la croissance des rhizomorphes de 16 isolats d'Armillaria ostoyae provenant de 3 localités de Pologne occidentale. L'augmentation du nombre de rhizomorphes et d'apex de rhizomorphes, de la longueur et du poids des rhizomorphes a été la plus importante en présence de Penicillium lanosum, Penicillium notatum, Cylindrocarpon destructans, Penicillium spinulosum et Mycelium radicis atrovirens, et, à un moindre degré, en présence de Nectria grammicospora. Trichoderma hamatum et Trichoderma viride ont inhibé la formation de rhizomorphes chez deux isolats d'A. ostoyae et M. radicis atrovirens, et P. spinulosum chez un isolat. Nos résultats suggèrent que la variation de sensibilitéà la stimulation microbienne entre isolats d'A. ostoyae est associée aux conditions environnementales et nutritionnelles de leurs habitats d'origine. Les isolats provenant de localités riches sur le plan nutritif, avec 20% de la surface couverte par des essences feuillues, sont particulièrement sensibles à la stimulation par des champignons de la rhizosphère. Zusammenfassung Verschiedene Rhizosphärenpilze von Quercus robur wurden auf ihre Wirkung auf die Bildung und das Wachstum der Rhizomorphen von 16 A. ostoyae -Isolaten getestet, die aus drei Gebieten in Westpolen stammten. Penicillium lanosum, P. notatum, Cylindrocarpon destructans, Penicillium spinulosum und Mycelium radicis atrovirens , erhöhten sowohl die Anzahl der Rhizomorphen und der Rhizomorphenspitzen als auch die Länge und das Gewicht der Rhizomorphen am deutlichsten. Nectria grammicospora war weniger wirksam. Trichoderma hamatum und T. viride hemmten die Rhizomorphenbildung bei zwei Isolaten von A. ostoyae, M. radicis atrovirens , und P. spinulosum hatten diesen Effekt bei einem Isolat. Aus den Daten ergibt sich, dass die unterschiedliche Empfindlichkeit der verschiedenen Isolate von A. ostoyae auf die mikrobielle Stimulation mit den Umweltbedingungen am Herkunftsort zusammenhängen könnte. Isolate von nährstoffreichen Standorten, wo 20% der Fläche mit Laubgehölzen bestockt waren, reagierten besonders deutlich auf die Präsenz von Rhizosphärenpilzen. [source]


    Rhizomorph growth habit, saprophytic ability and virulence of 15 Armillaria species

    FOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 1 2004
    D. J. Morrison
    Summary The rhizomorph branching habit in soil, competitive saprophytic ability and virulence were determined for 15 species of Armillaria from Europe, North America and Australia and New Zealand. In soil, rhizomorphs of northern hemisphere species branched either monopodially or dichotomously, whereas all five species from Australia and New Zealand branched dichotomously. The dry weight of rhizomorphs produced in soil by isolates of a species and by species was very variable. Species with monopodially branched rhizomorphs had significantly higher saprophytic colonization scores than dichotomously branched species and scores were significantly higher in Garry oak than Douglas-fir segments and in fresh than autoclaved segments. The damage to Douglas-fir seedlings caused by isolates of most dichotomously branched species was significantly greater than that caused by monopodially branched species. Species producing dichotomously branched rhizomorphs were more aggressive than monopodially branched species, killing 80% (vs. 17%) of seedlings that died during the first year of the 2-year experiment. Résumé Le type de ramification des rhizomorphes dans le sol, la compétitivité saprophytique et la virulence ont étéétudiés chez 15 espèces d'Armillaria d'Europe, Amérique du Nord, Australie et Nouvelle-Zélande. Dans le sol, les rhizomorphes des espèces de l'hémisphère nord ont une ramification soit monopodiale soit dichotomique, alors que les 5 espèces d'Australie et de Nouvelle-Zélande ont une ramification dichotomique. Le poids sec de rhizomorphes produit dans le sol varie beaucoup entre isolats d'une espèce et entre espèces. Les espèces avec rhizomorphes à ramification monopodiale ont présenté des notes de colonisation saprophytique supérieures à celles des espèces à ramification dichotomique. Les notes ont été significativement supérieures sur des baguettes de chêne de Garry par rapport à des baguettes de Douglas et sur baguettes fraîches par rapport à des baguettes autoclavées. Les dégâts observés sur semis de Douglas ont été significativement supérieurs avec les isolats de la plupart des espèces à ramification dichotomique par rapport aux espèces à ramification monopodiale. Les espèces produisant des rhizomorphes à ramification dichotomique se sont montrées plus agressives que les espèces à ramification monopodiale, 80% (contre 17%) de la mortalité totale, après 2 années d'expérimentation, étant observée dès la première année. Zusammenfassung Bei 15 Armillaria -Arten aus Europa, Nord-Amerika sowie Australien und Neuseeland wurden die Verzweigungsmuster der Rhizomorphen im Boden, das Ausmass der saprophytischen Besiedelung und die Virulenz bestimmt. Im Boden verzweigten sich die Rhizomorphen der Arten der Nordhemisphäre monopodial oder dichotom, alle 5 Arten aus Australien und Neuseeland verzweigten sich dichotom. Das Trockengewicht der im Boden produzierten Rhizomorphen variierte sowohl bei den Isolaten einer Art als auch zwischen den Arten sehr stark. Arten mit monopodial verzweigten Rhizomorphen hatten signifikant höhere saprophytische Besiedelungsgrade als dichotom verzweigte Arten. Der Besiedelungsgrad war auf Triebsegmenten von Quercus garryana höher als auf Pseudotsuga menziesii -Segmenten, sowie höher auf frischen Segmenten als auf autoklavierten. Der an Douglasiensämlingen verursachte Schaden lag bei den Isolaten der meisten dichotom verzweigten Arten signifikant höher als derjenige der monopodial verzweigten Arten. Arten mit dichotom verzweigten Rhizomorphen waren aggressiver als monopodial verzweigte Arten, sie töteten 80% (vs. 17%) aller absterbenden Pflanzen bereits im ersten Jahr der zweijährigen Untersuchungsperiode. [source]


    Hyperparasitic Stagonospora sp. on Botryosphaeria stevensii

    FOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 6 2003
    L. Vajna
    Summary An unknown fungus, Stagonospora sp., has been found on and in stromata of Botryosphaeria stevensii Shoemaker anamorph (Diplodia mutila Fr. & Mont.) and Diatrypella quercina (Persoon) Nitschke. Microscopic investigations indicated that the fungus might be a hyperparasite of some ascomycetous fungi, necrotrophs or weak parasites on sessile oak [Quercus petraea] and turkey oak (Quercus cerris). Dual culture studies carried out with monoconidial isolates of Stagonospora sp. and B. stevensii have demonstrated that Stagonospora sp. is a necrotrophic mycoparasite which might suppress, to some extent, the natural population of B. stevensii. Botryosphaeria stevensii is one of the biotic factors causing oak decline. Morphology of the fungus and symptoms of mycoparasitic interaction are described. Stagonospora sp. found in Hungary is assumed to be identical with hyperparasitic Stagonospora sp. reported from Germany and Austria as parasite of Ascodichaena rugosa and Ascodichaena mexicana in Mexico. This is the first record of hyperparasitic Stagonospora sp. of B. stevensii and D. quercina. Résumé Un champignon inconnu, Stagonospora sp, a été trouvé sur et dans les stromas de Botryosphaeria stevensii Shoemaker (anamorphe Diplodia mutila Fr. & Mont.) et Diatrypella quercina (Persoon) Nitschke. D'après les études microscopiques, le champignon pourrait être un hyperparasite de champignons ascomycètes, nécrotrophes ou parasites de faiblesse du chêne sessile [Q. petraea] et du chêne chevelu (Quercus cerris L.). Des confrontations en culture d'isolats monoconidiens de Stagonospora sp. et Botryosphaeria stevensii montrent que Stagonospora sp. est un mycoparasite nécrotrophe qui pourrait limiter dans une certaine mesure les populations naturelles de Botryosphaeria stevensii. Botryosphaeria stevensii est un des facteurs biotiques associés au dépérissement des chênes. La morphologie du champignon et les symptômes de l'interaction mycoparasitaire sont décrits. L'espèce de Stagonospora trouvée en Hongrie est supposée identique au Stagonospora décrit en Allemagne et Autriche comme parasite de Ascodichaena rugosa et au Mexique sur Ascodichaena mexicana. Cette étude constitue la première mention de Stagonospora sp. hyperparasite de B. stevensii et D. quercina. Zusammenfassung Eine bisher unbekannte Art von Stagonospora wurde in und auf Stromata von Diatrypella quercina (Persoon) Nitschke sowie der Anamorphe (Diplodia mutila Fr. & Mont.) von Botryosphaeria stevensii Shoemaker nachgewiesen. Mikroskopische Beobachtungen legen eine hyperparasitische Lebensweise auf zu den Ascomyceten gehörenden, nekrotrophen Parasiten und Schwächeparasiten von Trauben- (Q. petraea) und Zerreiche (Quercus cerris) nahe. Dualkulturen von Monokonidien-Isolaten von Stagonospora sp. und B. stevensii zeigten, dass es sich bei der Stagonospora -Art um einen nekrotrophen Mycoparasiten handelt, der möglicherweise unter gewissen Umständen die Entwicklung natürlicher Populationen von B. stevensii zu hemmen vermag. B. stevensii ist einer der biotischen Faktoren des ,,Eichensterbens". Die in Ungarn nachgewiesene Art dürfte mit derjenigen Stagonospora -Art identisch sein, welche Ascodichaena rugosa in Deutschland und Österreich sowie Ascodichaena mexicana in Mexico parasitiert. Bei der vorliegenden Arbeit handelt es sich um den ersten Nachweis einer hyperparasitischen Stagonospora -Art auf B. stevensii und D. quercina. [source]


    Pathogenicity of fungi isolated from Quercus suber in Catalonia (NE Spain)

    FOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 5 2000
    J. Luque
    Summary Thirty-four fungal species isolated from cork oak (Quercus suber) in Catalonia (NE Spain) during 1992,95 were tested for pathogenicity either in stem, leaf or root inoculations. Eleven species were found to be pathogenic on stem: Biscogniauxia mediterranea, Botryosphaeria stevensii, Diatrype cf. stigma, Endothia gyrosa, Fusarium solani, Graphium sp., Ophiostoma quercus, Phomopsis sp., Phytophthora cinnamomi, Sporendocladia bactrospora and an unidentified Coelomycete. Three fungi showed pathogenic effects on leaves: Dendrophoma myriadea, Lembosia quercina and Phomopsis quercella. No clear pathogenic effects were detected in the root inoculation experiment. Trunk pathogens were differentiated into two groups according to the effects induced in the inoculated plants; B. stevensii, Phomopsis sp. and P. cinnamomi caused the death of the inoculated plants and induced the formation of large cankers and vascular necroses. The other pathogenic species also produced severe cankers and vascular lesions, but no significant mortality was detected. Water stress increased the lesions caused by B. mediterranea and Phomopsis sp., but limited those of P. cinnamomi and the rest of the inoculated fungi. However, water stress did not significantly affect the damage caused by B. stevensii, which was the most virulent of the species tested. Leaf pathogens only showed their effects if the leaf cuticle was previously damaged. Lembosia quercina caused small dark lesions whereas D. myriadea and P. quercella produced large necrotic areas in well-watered plants. The lesions caused by the last two fungi were reduced by water stress. Résumé Le pouvoir pathogène de trente-quatre espèces fongiques isolées de chêne liège en Catalogne (nord-est de l'Espagne) de 1992 à 1995 a été testé par inoculation sur tronc, feuilles et racines. Onze espèces se sont montrées pathogènes sur tronc: Biscogniauxia mediterranea, Botryosphaeria stevensii, Diatrype cf. stigma, Endothia gyrosa, Fusarium solani, Graphium sp., Ophiostoma quercus, Phomopsis sp., Phytophthora cinnamomi, Sporendocladia bactrospora et un Coelomycète non identifié. Trois champignons ont eu un effet pathogène sur feuilles: Dendrophoma myriadae, Lembosia quercina et Phomopsis quercella. Aucun effet clair n'a été détecté chez les inoculations de racines. Les pathogènes de tronc se répartissaient en deux groupes selon leurs effets en inoculation; B. stevensii, Phomopsis sp. et P. cinnamomi provoquaient la mort des plants et induisaient le formation de grands chancres et des nécroses vasculaires. Les autres espèces pathogènes produisaient aussi des chancres graves et des lésions vasculaires, mais pas de mortalité significative. Un stress hydrique augmentait les lésions provoquées par B. mediterranea et Phomopsis sp. mais limitait ceux de P. cinnamomi et des autres champignons inoculés. Cependant, le stress hydrique n'affectait pas significativement les dégâts par B. stevensii qui était la plus agressive des espèces testées. Les pathogènes foliaires n'avaient d'effet que si la cuticule foliaire était préalablement endommagée. Lembosia quercina provoquait de petites lésions sombres et D. myriadea et P. quercella provoquaient de grandes plages nécrotiques chez les plants bien arrosés; les lésions causées par ces deux derniers champignons étaient réduites par le stress hydrique. Zusammenfassung Die Pathogenität von 34 Pilzarten, die im Zeitraum 1992,1995 von Korkeichen (Quercus suber) in Katalonien (NO-Spanien) isoliert wurden, wurden mit Hilfe von Trieb-, Blatt- oder Wurzelinokulationen untersucht. Am Stamm erwiesen sich 11 Arten als pathogen: Biscogniauxia mediterranea, Botryosphaeria stevensii, Diatrype cf. stigma, Endothia gyrosa, Fusarium solani, Graphium sp., Ophiostoma quercus, Phomopsis sp., Phytophthora cinnamomi, Sporendocladia bactrospora und ein nicht identifizierter Coelomycet. Drei Arten verursachten Symptome auf Bla¨ttern: Dendrophoma myriadea, Lembosia quercina und Phomopsis quercella. Bei den Wurzelinokulationen wurden keine pathogenen Effekte beobachtet. Bei den Stammpathogenen wurden nach den von ihnen an den inokulierten Pflanzen verursachten Symptomen zwei Gruppen unterschieden: B. stevensii, Phomopsis sp. und P. cinnamomi verursachten den Tod der Pflanzen und induzierten die Bildung von grossen Rinden- und Xylemnekrosen. Die anderen pathogenen Arten verursachten ebenfalls starke Rindennekrosen und Gefa¨ssla¨sionen, es wurde jedoch keine auffallende Mortalita¨t beobachtet. Unter Wasserstress war die durch B. mediterranea und Phomopsis sp. induzierte Nekrosebildung versta¨rkt, dagegen war sie bei P. cinnamomi und den u¨brigen inokulierten Pilzen reduziert. Wasserstress beeinflusst jedoch das Ausmass der Scha¨digung durch B. stevensii, der virulentesten der untersuchten Arten, nicht. Die Blattpathogene verursachten nur dann Symptome, wenn zuvor die Blattcuticula bescha¨digt worden war. Lembosia quercina verursachte kleine dunkle La¨sionen, wa¨hrend D. myriadea und P. quercella bei gut bewa¨sserten Pflanzen grosse Nekrosen verursachten. Diese Symptome waren unter Wasserstress weniger stark ausgepra¨gt. [source]