The viability of beech seedlings of different geographic proveniences (Fagus sylvatica L.) in the conditions of the "Plaiul Fagului" scientific reserve

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the response of the three years old beech seedlings leaves to the action of heat shock (HS), as considered an abiotic stress for plant growth. Under the influence of high temperatures in plants reactive oxygen species and damage to cellular structures are induced. The effectiveness of these processes depends on the genetic specificity, the physiological state of the plants, and the dose of the stress factor. Given the complexity of the processes involved in the response and adaptation of plants to thermal stress, this poses a serious threat to plants, especially in the light of the threat from global climate change. In order to determine the response of forest species to the action of high temperatures and to monitor the state of forest health, it is important to use methods quick and precise analysis. In this sense, the electrolyte leakage, PAM - fluorimetry and chlorophyll index methods are promising, because it allows the assessment of the change in the physiological state of some tissues and organs of the plant grown in different climatic conditions. In our research, we used three years old leaves of beech collected from plants growing in the experimental plantation created in the "Plaiul Fagului" scientific reserve, Republic of Moldova.