Increasing phosphorus limitation with tree age in tropical forests

Nevertheless, it remains uncertain whether this P limitation changes with the age of plants. Here we explored the effect of tree age on plant P limitation in a tropical forest by examining three functional plant groups: fast-growing, slow-growing, and nitrogen (N)-fixing trees.

Leaf N and P resorption efficiency (NRE and PRE) were measured, and the PRE:NRE was employed to indicate the intensity of P limitation. Results showed no significant change in NRE across all plant types along with tree age. However, PRE and PRE:NRE significantly increased with tree age across all plant types, indicating a widespread increase in plant P limitation with tree age in tropical forests.