Responsiveness and adaptability of Eucalyptus cladocalyx in comparison to drought-sensitive eucalypt under limited water availability

Post authored by Gugu Gama

The experiment is designed to investigate the anatomical responses of Eucalyptus cladocalyx and Eucalyptus grandis to cyclic drought, specifically changes in cambium tissue. The experiment’s design will allow both species to alternate between wet and dry conditions, after which both will be subjected to a severe drought treatment.

In preparation for this experiment, 60 healthy seedling of Eucalyptus cladocalyx and 60 seedlings of Eucalyptus grandis were selected. These were then grown in planter pots to establish in the green house.

The plants have been moved from the greenhouse and allowed to acclimatise in the outside environment before the experiment can be resumed. During this time, they are constantly given water and nutrients to aid in their growth.

Throughout the experiment, all plants will be measured weekly in terms of height, diameter, and leaf stomatal microscopy. They will also be sampled weekly for root, stem, and leaf biomass. Regular samples will be taken of cambial zone and developing xylem to understand wood formation processes.