Variations in the photoprotective responses of trees and seedlings of the endangered Pitavia punctata (Ruiz & Pav.) Molina.

Abstract

Pitavia punctata (Ruiz & Pav.) Molina ('Pitao') is an endangered species that regenerates under the shade. We monitored the photochemical efficiency of photosystem II in four localities spanning the geographical distribution of the species in Central Chile. Technical fluorescence parameters and JIP-test-derived parameters were measured in trees (up to 15 m) and seedlings (< 50 cm). We observed significant effects of the type of plant and locality on the performance index (PI_ABS) and maximum fluorescence (F_M). PI_ABS was higher in trees from the Los Barros locality (PI_ABS = 41), whereas seedlings located in Colcura locality had PI_ABS = 26. Seedlings exhibited higher F_M compared to trees (F_M = 940 and 895 for seedlings and trees, respectively), particularly in locality Ramadillas (F_M = 1,025). Our results provide information on a topic largely understudied in native species in Chile and are useful for designing and monitoring restoration processes for P. punctata.