Beeches: Copper Beech Tree

Discussion in 'Fagaceae (beeches, oaks, etc.)' started by TomUK, Oct 16, 2005.

  1. TomUK

    TomUK Member

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    I am currently undertaking an investigation regarding Copper Beech tree leaves.

    Basically i have collected results which have shown that the leaves of a copper beach become less transparent the further away from the trunk you go (the leaves at the edge of the tree let least light through).

    I would be ever so greatful if anyone could tell me why this is? and what is in the leaf that cause less light to be passed through. I assume it is some sort of pigment but i dont know, there appears to be little information regarding this on the internet, i assume as it is quite a specific question.

    Any help is appreciated.

    Tom Curtis
     
  2. jimmyq

    jimmyq Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    perhaps the concentration of chlorophyll is strongest where the most light exists (outside canopy of the tree / plant) to make the photosynthetic function most efficient?
     
  3. TomUK

    TomUK Member

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    Thanks, i think that must be why.

    Also do you know the name of the pigment that makes copper beech trees leaves the golden brown colour? i dont think this can be chlorophyll.

    Many thanks for your help.

    Tom
     
  4. nb-

    nb- Active Member

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    Its not, its probably a carotenoid.

    Most plant leaves have more than one pigment in them, of which the green chlorophyll(s) is just one. These accessory pigments, such as carotenoids (fucoxanthin, a carotenoid apparently gives brown algae its colour), xanthophylls etc. don’t actually photosynthesize but absorb different wavelengths of light to chlorophyll (hence producing a different colour) and pass their absorbed energy to the chlorophyll. These dark pigments mask the chlorophyll, but if you look a copper beech leaf that has grown in the shade, where these pigments are less useful, you can often see the chlorophyll showing through making them look less brown.
     
  5. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Purple pigments called anthocyanins.

    Jimmyq is right in the explanation that they're strongest on the most brightly lit parts of the tree; the leaves are also physically thicker there, too.
     

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