Effects of xylem water transport on CO2 efflux of woody tissue in a tropical tree, Amazonas State, Brazil

We assessed the effect of xylem sap flux on radial CO2 efflux of woody tissue of a tropical trees species growing in the Center of Manaus (Amazonas State, Brazil). An open chamber system was used to constantly measure diurnal changes in CO2 efflux over several days. Xylem sap flux was monitored additionally. We found a strong relationship between temperature and woody tissue respiration rates during night time. CO2 efflux rates were reduced up to 35% during daytime most probably due to vertical water uptake within the tree trunks. The results suggest a distinct daytime depression of the CO2 efflux compared with a night time temperature relationship. Xylem sap flux appears to be a major influence on CO2 efflux rates. The reductions in CO2 efflux will become most distinct during periods with a high evaporative demand and predictions of CO2 efflux by the temperature/flux relation are critical during these periods.