Utah researchers find quaking aspens remember past drought in leaf chemistry
University of Utah biologists conducted a three-year experiment showing quaking aspen trees retain chemical memories of previous drought conditions.
Experimental drought alters leaf defenses
Researchers exposed quaking aspen to artificially created dry conditions for three years. In the years following this exposure, the trees produced leaves with higher concentrations of salicinoid phenolic glycosides. These specific chemicals help deter insects and animals that typically eat plants.
Microbial fungi also change
The study documented shifts in the populations of microbial fungi living on the aspen leaves. This chemical memory appears to be written into the biology of the tree rather than just its growth rings. The findings suggest aspens react to water scarcity by altering their internal chemistry.
Declining population faces threats
Quaking aspen are considered a crucial species in Western mountains and Utah. Their numbers are dropping due to insect attacks, pathogens, and historic fire suppression policies. Livestock grazing and wildlife have also allowed conifers to take over their former range.
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