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Over the past three decades, yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) has been widely employed in reforestation efforts across the country. This study delves into the potential influence of yellow poplar afforestation on the indigenous soil microbial demography within the original native stand. By scrutinizing microbial populations, a comprehensive understanding is sought. Utilizing pyrosequencing, a total of 92,300 sequencing reads were acquired from soil samples collected at seven distinct sites, each with two replicates. The comprehensive analysis unveiled the presence of 15 phyla, 158 families, 307 genera, and 439 distinct species. Notably, proteobacteria dominated at the phylum level, constituting 50% of the microbial presence, succeeded by acidobacteria (18%) and verrucomicrobia (10.7%). Remarkably, no significant disparities were observed in the microbial community composition across the yellow poplar, mixed, and pitch pine stands, spanning the phylum, family, and genus levels. Particularly noteworthy was the challenge of distinguishing between the microbial compositions of the mixed tree stand and the yellow poplar stand. Remarkably high-rank correlation coefficients underscored the striking similarity in microbe abundance between these two stands, indicating minimal variation in their microbial composition. The beta diversity index revealed parity between the microbial communities of the yellow poplar and mixed tree stands. However, a discernable contrast emerged in the soil microorganism composition of the pitch pine stand.

Illinoia liriodendri is reported for the first time in Ukraine as a new invasive species of aphids. It was found feeding on Liriodendron tulipifera at the ‘Olexandria’ State Dendrological Park of the NAS of Ukraine in June 2024.

Despite the importance of suitable nesting habitat for bee conservation, the nesting requirements of most species remain unknown. We sought to better understand the distribution of Colletes thoracicus Smith (Hymenoptera: Colletidae) nesting aggregations within a forested watershed in GA, USA. We found 13 and 17 aggregations within the watershed in 2022 and 2023, respectively, and seven of these occurred at the same locations between years. The aggregations were found exclusively along the banks of stream channels and, compared to randomly selected non-aggregation sites, were associated with sandier and drier soil and with the presence of the herbaceous perennial, Podophyllum peltatum L. We suggest that the association with P. peltatum may result from favorable disturbances to the litter layer caused by the springtime emergence of the plant. Our results demonstrate that closed-canopy forests, and especially the sandier soils bordering streams, can provide suitable nesting sites for C. thoracicus and possibly other ground-nesting bee species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BLADE-ON-PETIOLE 2 (BOP2) plays a pivotal role in leaf morphogenesis. Liriodendron tulipifera is a suitable model for exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying leaf serration formation, which are largely unknown. Here, we isolated the full-length LtuBOP2 gene and its promoter from L. tulipifera and characterized its function in leaf morphogenesis through multidimensional approaches. The spatiotemporal expression pattern of LtuBOP2 indicated the high expression of LtuBOP2 in stems and leaf buds. We constructed LtuBOP2 promoter, fused the promoter sequences to the β-glucuronidase (GUS) gene, and then transformed them into Arabidopsis thaliana. Histochemical GUS staining results indicated that GUS activity was higher in petioles and the main vein. LtuBOP2 overexpression in A. thaliana caused moderate serration in the leaf tip, owing to the increased number of abnormal lamina epidermal cells and defective vascular tissue, thus indicating a novel role of BOP2. The ectopic expression of LtuBOP2 in A. thaliana promoted the expression of the lateral organ boundary gene ASYMMETRIC LEAVES2 (AS2) and inhibited JAGGED (JAG) and CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON2 (CUC2) expression to establish leaf proximal–distal polarity. Moreover, LtuBOP2 participated in leaf serration formation by promoting the antagonistic relationship between KNOX I and hormones during leaf margin development. Our findings revealed the role of LtuBOP2 in the proximal–distal polarity formation and development of leaf margin morphology, providing new insights into the regulatory mechanisms of the leaf formation development of L. tulipifera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Appalachian Mountains, Liriodendron tulipifera monocultures are widespread, with these forests lacking both species and structural diversity. In this study, we developed models that described the effects of thinning treatments, conducted almost 60 years ago, on the density, composition, and functional identity of the woody understory in L. tulipifera forests. The woody understory of these thinned L. tulipifera forests was diverse, with the small seedling (<1.4 m), large seedling (≥1.4 m and <2.54 cm dbh), and sapling (≥2.54 and <12.7 cm) layers possessing 38, 32, and 23 species, respectively. Although model performance was low to moderate (r2 = 0.05–0.40), we found that legacy effects, alone or in combination with environmental variables, explained, in part, the variability associated with the density, composition, and functional identity of the small seedling, large seedling, and sapling size classes, with the relative influence of legacy versus environmental effects varying by metric and size class. Post‐thinning basal area and/or percent of basal area removed were not the primary legacy effects influencing the woody understory. Instead, legacy effects associated with species composition of the overstory before and/or after thinning along with average stem diameter post‐thinning, variation in stem diameter post‐thinning, and age at the time of thinning were more influential than density or thinning intensity. This study provides evidence that conserving species diversity during forest management activities can have positive long‐term effects on composition and function of the woody understory and increase restoration potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To select genotypes with stable growth in diverse environments, tree breeders use multisite trials to evaluate genotypic stability and adaptation. Since genotype-by-environment (G × E) interaction effects vary with age, most multisite trials focus only on site effects, ignoring age effects. Liriodendron tulipifera trees are valuable due to their rapid growth and high-quality wood. Currently, multisite trials involving L. tulipifera plants are rare and the lack of data on G × E interaction effects impedes its selection. In this study, to explore the better performance and G × E pattern of L. tulipifera across ages, the growth traits (tree height, H; and diameter at breast height, DBH) of trees that were of five consecutive ages and grown on progeny-testing plantations were studied for 27 open-pollinated families at three sites. The results showed that the heritability of DBH was greater than that of H at almost all ages, and the individual breeding value ranking differed across sites and ages. The additive genetic correlations (rA) between different site pairs were relatively small and varied with age, indicating an age trend for G × E, and showed a difference in traits. It was found that the absolute differences in some monthly average climatic indicators correlated with the G × E. Based on a comprehensive analysis considering stability and productivity, four elite families were identified. These results could aid in selecting stable, adaptable L. tulipifera genotypes and provide a reference for evaluating G × E interaction effects in multiage, multisite trials of other tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liriodendron tulipifera L. is an ornamental tree species with extraordinarily lobed leaves. However, the mechanisms underlying lobed leaf formation in plants remain unclear. The transcription factor, ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA HOMEBOX 6 (HB6), plays a role in regulating leaf margin development. HB6 is involved in cell division and differentiation of developmental organs and negatively regulates abscisic acid (ABA) signal transmission under external abiotic stress; it is unclear whether HB6 performs a pivotal role in leaf morphogenesis in L. tulipifera. In this study, full-length LtuHB6 from L. tulipifera was heterologously expressed in tobacco and Arabidopsis thaliana; its expression pattern was analyzed to determine its potential role in leaf development. In addition, LtuHB6 is localized in the nucleus and cell membrane of tobacco leaves. The expression of LtuHB6 was highest in mature leaves compared to the other stages of leaf development (bud growth, young leaves, and leaf senescence). Transgenic A. thaliana plants overexpressing LtuHB6 exhibited an abnormal phenotype with lobed leaves. Moreover, LtuHB6 overexpression significantly affected the expression of seven genes related to leaf serration in the initial stage of leaf primordia and altered the expression levels of hormonal genes. Our findings indicate that LtuHB6 is an essential regulatory factor in L. tulipifera lobed-leaf formation and is involved in regulating and responding to hormones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is a widespread invasive ladybird. In this study, we determine its occurrence and expansion in urban areas of the Iberian Peninsula after 2014. We also define the aphidophagous ladybird species complex in urban areas of the northeastern Iberian Peninsula and track any changes between 2015 and 2021. The expansion of the species mainly occurred in Catalonia (northeast Iberian Peninsula), where spring and summer populations on trees and shrubs and overwintering aggregations were recorded. The records of H. axyridis populations allow us to distinguish between two areas: one that has already been invaded and another that has not yet been invaded. The relative abundance of the ladybird species in each area is determined on a yearly basis. In the invaded area, H. axyridis became dominant two years after its detection, replacing Adalia bipunctata. This change in species prevalence is more pronounced in trees highly infested with aphids. In the not yet invaded area, changes in species dominance also occurred, and A. bipunctata replaced Oenopia conglobata from 2020 onwards. The yearly release of this ladybird in urban green areas for aphid control purposes could explain this shift. This study defines the current situation of H. axyridis in the Iberian Peninsula, and determines the main changes in ladybird species assemblages during the last few years. In the Western Palearctic region, Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is mainly established in urban areas. In this study, we update its occurrence in urban areas of the Iberian Peninsula and determine its expansion after 2014. Changes in the ladybird species assemblage are also evaluated. We compile information about the records of H. axyridis in Spain from 2015 to 2021. In addition, we sample different locations to determine the relative abundances of the species composing the aphidophagous ladybird complex. The expansion of H. axyridis mainly occurred in Catalonia (Iberian Peninsula), where it is possible to identify two clear areas: one that has already been invaded and another that has not yet been invaded. Harmonia axyridis became the dominant species in the invaded area two years after it was first identified. This dominance is clearly shown on Liriodendron tulipifera and Tilia platyphyllos, where it accounted for more than 75% of the total collected individuals in the last year of the study. In the not-yet invaded area, Adalia bipunctata overcame Oenopia conglobata and became the prevalent species from 2020 onwards, likely due to its regular releases for aphid biocontrol. This study reveals that changes in ladybird species assemblages may not only be caused by invasive species, but also by biological control practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new β-ionone, litulipiferic acid (12), was isolated from the leaves of Liriodendron tulipifera (Magnoliaceae). The structure of the new β-ionone was elucidated by chemical and physical evidence. The anticancer effect of compounds 1–3, 5, 6, and 8 on A375 cells exhibit a dose-dependent behavior. When cells were exposed to epitulipinolide diepoxide (8) at 100 μM, the data exhibited viabilities of less than 25% after 24 h of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of fast-growth wood species, hybrid yellow poplar (YP-h, Liriodendron sino-americanum) has been extensively planted throughout of China, however, little is known about its properties and applicability in structural and nonstructural applications such as construction and furniture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the properties of YP-h and examine its differences with yellow poplar (YP, Liriodendron tulipifera). The average vessel diameter of YP-h (55 μm) was 19 % lower than YP (68 μm), but, the density of YP-h was 37 % higher than YP and the dimensional change in YP-h was higher than YP. Comparable tensile strength and flexural modulus were found in YP-h and YP, however, the flexural, shear, and impact strength of YP-h was 35 %, 40 %, and 55 % higher than those of YP, respectively. The drilling, mortising, and turning processability of YP-h were superior to those of YP. Compared to the gluing and coating performance of YP, YP-h had inferior gluing properties and equivalent coating performance. Therefore, hybrid yellow poplar can be an ideal candidate for yellow poplar to be utilized in construction and furniture.

BLADE-ON-PETIOLE 2 (BOP2) plays a pivotal role in leaf morphogenesis. Liriodendron tulipifera is a suitable model for exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying leaf serration formation, which are largely unknown. Here, we isolated the full-length LtuBOP2 gene and its promoter from L. tulipifera and characterized its function in leaf morphogenesis through multidimensional approaches. The spatiotemporal expression pattern of LtuBOP2 indicated the high expression of LtuBOP2 in stems and leaf buds. We constructed LtuBOP2 promoter, fused the promoter sequences to the β-glucuronidase (GUS) gene, and then transformed them into Arabidopsis thaliana. Histochemical GUS staining results indicated that GUS activity was higher in petioles and the main vein. LtuBOP2 overexpression in A. thaliana caused moderate serration in the leaf tip, owing to the increased number of abnormal lamina epidermal cells and defective vascular tissue, thus indicating a novel role of BOP2. The ectopic expression of LtuBOP2 in A. thaliana promoted the expression of the lateral organ boundary gene ASYMMETRIC LEAVES2 (AS2) and inhibited JAGGED (JAG) and CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON2 (CUC2) expression to establish leaf proximal–distal polarity. Moreover, LtuBOP2 participated in leaf serration formation by promoting the antagonistic relationship between KNOX I and hormones during leaf margin development. Our findings revealed the role of LtuBOP2 in the proximal–distal polarity formation and development of leaf margin morphology, providing new insights into the regulatory mechanisms of the leaf formation development of L. tulipifera.

Tree damage from a variety of types of wind events is widespread and of great ecological and economic importance. In terms of areas impacted, tropical storms have the most widespread effects on tropical and temperate forests, with southeastern U.S. forests particularly prone to tropical storm damage. This impact motivates attempts to understand the tree and forest characteristics that influence levels of damage. This study presents initial findings from a spatially explicit, individual-based mechanistic wind severity model, ForSTORM, parameterized from winching research on trees in southeastern U.S. This model allows independent control of six wind and neighborhood parameters likely to influence the patterns of wind damage, such as gap formation, the shape of the vertical wind profile, indirect damage, and support from neighbors. We arranged the subject trees in two virtual stands orientations with identical positions relative to each other, but with one virtual stand rotated 90 degrees from the other virtual stand – to explore the effect of wind coming from two alternative directions. The model reproduces several trends observed in field damage surveys, as well as analogous CWS models developed for other forests, and reveals unexpected insights. Wind profiles with higher extinction coefficients, or steeper decrease in wind speed from canopy top to lower levels, resulted in significantly higher critical wind speeds, thus reducing level of damage for a given wind speed. Three alternative formulations of wind profiles also led to significant differences in critical wind speed (CWS), although the effect of profile was less than effect of different extinction coefficients. The CWS differed little between the two alternative stand orientations. Support from neighboring trees resulted in significantly higher critical wind speeds, regardless of type of wind profile or spatial arrangement of trees. The presence or absence of gaps caused marginally significant different in CWS, while inclusion of indirect damage along with direct damage did not significantly change CWS from those caused by direct damage alone. Empirical research that could most benefit this modelling approach includes improving crown area measurement, refining drag coefficients, and development of a biomechanical framework for neighbor support.

Forest structure, composition, and understory light patterns were measured at Allee Memorial Woods (AMW) near the forest–prairie ecoregional boundary in west-central Indiana to determine (1) compositional trends over five decades, (2) how different disturbance histories may have affected the dynamics, (3) current understory light regimes and their relationship to sapling densities, and (4) implications for the future of the forest preserve. Permanent sampling grids were re-established during 2011–12 in an uncut stand and two others that were selectively or heavily cut during 1890–1920. All trees > 1 m tall were censused, and those > 7.5 cm in diameter were mapped and measured, to compare structure (density, mean diameter, basal area) and species composition (richness, diversity, similarity) within and across size classes. Photosynthetic photon flux (PPF) was measured in three ways and correlated with sapling densities. Substantial compositional changes occurred in both the uncut and selectively cut stands during 1959–60 to 2011. They have declined in species richness and diversity, especially in smaller size classes, and the relative densities of Acer saccharum L., Fagus grandifolia Ehrh., or both have increased in sapling (1 m tall to 7.5 cm diameter) and mid-sized (7.6–50.7 cm) strata while the overstory (> 50.7 cm) has become more heavily dominated by Quercus spp. and Liriodendron tulipifera L. Light levels under intact canopy are very low in general and sapling densities are correlated with light, especially with longer-term direct PPF measurements at 0.5 m. All three stands show patterns consistent with widespread understory shade tolerance shifts in eastern North America, and the uncut and selectively cut stands have converged in overall size class structure and composition through different pathways related to their disturbance histories. Increased dominance of the overstory by Acer and Fagus, further declines in tree species diversity, and inhibition of regeneration by less shade-tolerant species are predicted for AMW unless there are substantial changes in climate and/or disturbance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Light availability and macroinvertebrate consumers are strong bottom-up and top-down controls, respectively, in aquatic ecosystems. However, these 2 factors are rarely examined in combination, particularly regarding detrital heterotrophic processes such as organic matter decomposition. We conducted separate experiments manipulating light and presence of the omnivorous shrimp Macrobrachium ohione (S. I. Smith, 1874) and the shredder-detritivore caddisfly Pycnopsyche sp. to test effects of light availability and consumer presence on decomposition of Liriodendron tulipifera L., a fast-decaying leaf species, in outdoor experimental streams. We measured litter algal, fungal, and bacterial biomass and production, enzymatic activity, and decomposition rates over 6 wk during each experiment. Both experiments demonstrated positive algal responses to light; during the Macrobrachium experiment, light also increased fungal growth rates and bacterial biomass. During the Pycnopsyche experiment, light reduced bacterial production rates and β-glucosidase activity. Despite these strong light effects on microbial heterotrophy, litter decomposition rates did not respond to light availability, indicating minimal algal priming effects, and decomposition only increased in the presence of Pycnopsyche , regardless of light treatment. In both experiments, consumer presence did not elicit strong microbial responses, with the exception of the timing of algal and bacterial colonization of litter during the Macrobrachium experiment. Under the conditions of our study, our results affirm that light elicits a strong bottom-up control on microbial interactions during litter decomposition. In turn, consumer top-down effects depend on feeding mode and are more likely independent from light availability. These findings advance understanding of the interplay between light availability and foodweb structure in shaping aquatic ecosystem processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Western Palearctic region, Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is mainly established in urban areas. In this study, we update its occurrence in urban areas of the Iberian Peninsula and determine its expansion after 2014. Changes in the ladybird species assemblage are also evaluated. We compile information about the records of H. axyridis in Spain from 2015 to 2021. In addition, we sample different locations to determine the relative abundances of the species composing the aphidophagous ladybird complex. The expansion of H. axyridis mainly occurred in Catalonia (Iberian Peninsula), where it is possible to identify two clear areas: one that has already been invaded and another that has not yet been invaded. Harmonia axyridis became the dominant species in the invaded area two years after it was first identified. This dominance is clearly shown on Liriodendron tulipifera and Tilia platyphyllos, where it accounted for more than 75% of the total collected individuals in the last year of the study. In the not-yet invaded area, Adalia bipunctata overcame Oenopia conglobata and became the prevalent species from 2020 onwards, likely due to its regular releases for aphid biocontrol. This study reveals that changes in ladybird species assemblages may not only be caused by invasive species, but also by biological control practices.

The soil microbial community (SMC) provides critical ecosystem services including organic matter decomposition, soil structural formation, and nutrient cycling. Studies suggest plants, specifically trees, act as soil keystone species controlling SMC structure via multiple mechanisms (e.g., litter chemistry, root exudates, and canopy alteration of precipitation). Tree influence on SMC is shaped by local/regional climate effects on forested environments and the connection of forests to surrounding landscapes (e.g., urbanization). Urban soils offer an ideal analog to assess the influence of environmental conditions versus plant species-specific controls on SMC. We used next generation high throughput sequencing to characterize the SMC of specific tree species (Fagus grandifolia [beech] vs Liriodendron tulipifera [yellow poplar]) across an urban–rural gradient. Results indicate SMC dissimilarity within rural forests suggests the SMC is unique to individual tree species. However, greater urbanization pressure increased SMC similarity between tree species. Relative abundance, species richness, and evenness suggest that increases in similarity within urban forests is not the result of biodiversity loss, but rather due to greater overlap of shared taxa. Evaluation of soil chemistry across the rural–urban gradient indicate pH, Ca+, and organic matter are largely responsible for driving relative abundance of specific SMC members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Molecular characterisation of two species of Meloinema : M. chitwoodi from Oregon, USA, and M. odesanens from South Korea, is given based on the partial 18S rRNA, the D2-D3 of 28S rRNA, ITS rRNA, and COI gene sequences. In the phylogenetic trees, Meloinema clustered with Meloidogyne , in a basal position and more closely with Meloidogyne indica and M. nataliei. The Shimodaira-Hasegawa (SH) maximum likelihood testing of an alternative topology with two gene fragments (D2-D3 of 28S rRNA and 18S rRNA genes) did not reject a sister relationship of Meloidogyne and Meloinema. Molecular results confirmed the view of Siddiqi (2000) that Meloidogyne and Meloinema evolved from a Pratylenchidae-type ancestor. The clade Meloinema + Meloidogyne + Nacobbus was rejected by the SH test of the D2-D3 of 28S rRNA gene sequence dataset. The molecular results suggested that the genus Nacobbus should be placed not in the Meloidogynidae, but in a separate subfamily, the Nacobbinae, under the family Pratylenchidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Arabidopsis thaliana, JAGGED (JAG) is a transcription inhibitor that controls the development of leaf polarity and regulates the expression of genes controlling lateral organ formation. Liriodendron tulipifera is an ornamental tree with extraordinary tulip-shaped flowers and goose web-like leaves, this is one of the suitable plants for morphological development research. To investigate the potential functions of the LtuJAG gene, we isolated the full-length LtuJAG from L. tulipifera, transferred it into A. thaliana via agrobacterium-mediated transformation, and monitored its expression pattern. Subcellular localization showed that LtuJAG was located in the nucleus. RT-qPCR assays indicated that LtuJAG was expressed mainly in leaf buds and flowers, but not in mature leaves and stems. GUS staining results showed that LtuJAG was expressed in the shoot apical meristem (SAM). Overexpressing LtuJAG changed A. thaliana leaf shapes, causing a moderate serration and a slight asymmetric distribution in the medio-lateral and proximal-distal axes. Ectopic expression of LtuJAG induced the expression of lateral organ boundary suppressors JAGGED LATERAL ORGANS (JLO) and ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA HOMEOBOX1 (ATH1). It also repressed the expression of the apical meristem suppressor class-1 KNOX gene (KNOX I) and altered endogenous hormone levels. Our results suggest that LtuJAG plays a role in negatively regulating leaf polarity formation in L. tulipifera.

High irradiance of a habitat in arid areas is usually associated with high temperature and dry air, which can cause water deficiency in plants. The Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) is a light-loving mesophytic species. This study showed that L. tulipifera forms shade or sun leaves depending on the light conditions. Some xeromorphic features were found in leaves of the trees in illuminated habitats. These sun leaves are smaller, denser, and thicker, with smaller epidermal cells and a thick cuticle; the spongy parenchyma consists of a larger number of rows of small cells; the cells of the columnar parenchyma are larger than the shade leaves. The sun leaf contains more total chlorophyll (by 20–30%), and the guard cells of the stomata of the sun leaf contain chloroplasts. The increased concentration of chlorophyll probably maintains the energy balance in the conditions of inhibited photosynthesis under high illumination and temperature. Decreased sizes of the sun leaf and epidermis cells, thickening of the cuticle and cell wall of epidermal cells, sunken stomata, compact mesophyll with small intercellular spaces, and multirow spongy parenchyma protect from overheating and passive loss of water and can be considered as xeromorphic features. Large numerous stomata and vascular bundles contribute to effective cooling of the surface by transpiration at high temperatures under sufficient water supply. Thus, the leaves of L. tulipifera have an ecological plasticity in relation to illumination and temperature, which contributed to the acclimation of the species to the habitat conditions in arid climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise of research. Glacial cycles during the last circa 5 Myr altered the distribution of genetic variance observed today. During periods of unfavorable climate, populations survive glacial maxima in refugial microclimates where growth and reproduction are possible. Peninsulas provide refuge but may alter demographic processes in comparison with mainland populations. The Florida peninsula is an important refugium for plant populations, and its unique geologic history created environments that differ from those of nearby mainland sites. Peninsular demographic effects and adaptation may contribute to genetic diversity. We investigate the genetic divergence of tulip trees (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) across much of their range and interpret our results in the context of eastern North American phylogeography, detectable signals of population expansion during recolonization, and peninsular demographic effects. We also test the hypothesis that peninsular populations represent a new species or subspecies within L. tulipifera. Methodology. Population structure was evaluated in a sample of 141 individuals from 56 populations at one nuclear DNA region (LFY) and three cpDNA intergenic regions (psbA-trnH , trnL intron-trnF , trnK 5′- matK). We use population genetic methods to identify clusters, test their significance, and estimate coalescent parameters. Phylogenetic trees and population trees were built to observe relationships between groups. Pivotal results. Genetic clusters determined with population genetic and phylogenetic methods are regionally coherent. We observe a secondary contact zone in the Gulf Coast near the Apalachicola River basin. Florida peninsula populations both are genetically diverse and experience low migration from mainland populations. Conclusions. We detect patterns of phylogeographic clustering using population genetic and phylogenetic methods. Analysis of genetic diversity and gene flow indicates range expansion has influenced their patterns. A demographic peninsular effect appears to have altered patterns of genetic diversity, linkage disequilibrium, and gene flow between peninsular and mainland populations. We interpret these results to indicate that a subspecies of L. tulipifera from the Florida peninsula exists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of alkaline peroxide (AP) treatment on chemical compositions and characteristics of lignocellulosic nanofibrils (LCNFs) were investigated. The AP treatment was conducted on a wood powder (Liriodendron tulipifera) at 80 °C for 1 or 5 h with different hydrogen peroxide concentrations (0.2 to 12 wt%) to selectively remove hemicelluloses and lignin. The treated wood powder was then defibrillated using wet-disk milling (WDM). The hemicelluloses and lignin in the LCNFs were successfully reduced to the ranges of 6.0% to 23.6% and 13.0% to 30.0%, respectively, depending upon the AP treatment conditions. The defibrillation efficiency improved as the hemicelluloses and lignin were removed, which reduced the LCNF dimensions. The filtration time increased with decreasing lignin and hemicellulose contents. The cellulose crystallinity and surface area of the LCNFs increased with decreasing lignin and hemicellulose contents. The tensile strength and water contact angles of the nanopaper handsheets increased, and the paper's color became whiter as the lignin content decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tulip tree aphid, Illinoia liriodendri, is reported in Slovakia for the first time. Colonies of I. liriodendri were found on tulip trees, Liriodendron tulipifera, in two locations of south-western Slovakia in 2014 and 2015. Colonies of nymphs and viviparous females fed on the underside of leaves with no significant symptoms of damage to tulip trees. In this short study, the first report of the aphid from Slovakia is presented and original illustrations with results of morphometric analysis of alate viviparous females are provided.

Liriodendron tulipifera L. is easily recognized by its heart-shaped of leaves and can grow up to 60 meters in North America. In this study, we presented second complete mitochondrial genome of L. tulipifera to understand intra-species variations. Its length is 156,387 bp and contains 66 genes (42 protein-coding genes, three rRNAs, and 21 tRNAs). The overall GC content of the mitochondrial genome is 43.5%, 365 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; 0.07%), and 2117 insertions and deletions (INDELs; 0.38%) are identified. Most of INDELs are from 1980 bp deletions on this mitochondrial genome. Phylogenetic trees show that intra-species relation in both Liriodendron and Arabidopsis shows are clustered tightly in each clade. In addition, monocots and eudicots are positioned in different manner from classical plant taxonomy, requiring more researches.

Abstract Fractional catalytic pyrolysis is an updated pyrolysis method, in which the biomass can be converted into higher quality bio-oil by upgrading the pyrolysis vapor in fluidized bed. In this study, the fast pyrolysis of tulip tree (Liriodendron) was performed in a bubbling fluidized-bed reactor under various reaction conditions (pyrolysis temperature, flow rate of fluidizing medium, and biomass particle size) to investigate the effects of these parameters on product yield and bio-oil quality. The system used silica sand and dolomite as the fluidizing bed material, and nitrogen as the fluidizing medium. When the pyrolysis temperature increased from 400 °C to 550 °C, the bio-oil yield was between 40.07 wt% and 49.03 wt% compared to those of 28.38 and 44.83 wt% using dolomite catalyst. Deoxygenation of bio-oil mostly produced water, and produced lower amounts of CO and CO 2 , but higher amounts of H 2 and hydrocarbons gas. The catalytic process obtaineda high ratio of H 2 /CO in the gas product. Highlights • Pyrolysis of tulip tree in fluidized bed reactor under different conditions. • Catalytic pyrolysis using dolomite catalyst for upgrading bio-oil's quality. • Dolomite rejected oxygen from pyrolysis vapor, mostly through dehydration. • The catalytic process produced high H 2 /CO ratio in the gas product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract High density polyethylene (HDPE) was applied as a co-feeding feedstock on the catalytic pyrolysis (CP) of yellow poplar (YP) over mesoporous catalysts, Al-MCM-48 s(SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 : 23, 80) and Al-MSU-F(SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 : 82). Compared to the non-catalytic thermogravimetic (TG) analysis of HDPE, catalytic TG analysis of HDPE had much lower decomposition temperatures, 407 °C over Al-MCM-48(23), 432 °C over Al-MCM-48(80) and 446 °C over Al-MSU-F(82). On the other hand, the decomposition temperatures of HDPE increased up to 460 °C over Al-MCM-48(23), 482 °C over Al-MCM-48(80), and 492 °C over Al-MSU-F(82) by applying the mixture of HDPE and YP as a feedstock on the catalytic TG analysis. The experimental yields of aromatic hydrocarbons obtained from the catalytic co-pyrolysis (CCP) of YP and HDPE over mesoporous catalysts were much higher than their theoretical yields. Among mesoporous catalysts, Al-MCM-48(23) produced the larger amount of aromatic hydrocarbons (2.89%) on the CCP of HDPE and YP than those (2.34–2.48%) over Al-MCM-48(80) and Al-MSU-F(82) and also provided the highest synergistic effect on the formation of aromatic hydrocarbons. The higher synergistic effect over Al-MCM-48(20) was achieved by applying the higher YP/HDPE ratio in the feedstock (3/1), higher catalyst/sample ratio (4/1), and higher reaction temperature (600 °C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied phenotypic variation among provenances of Liriodendron at near-mature stage to identify those with the most desirable traits for production. To provide a scientific basis for the selection of superior provenances of Liriodendron, a provenance trial was established with five provenances of Liriodendron tulipifera and 15 provenances of Liriodendron chinense. This trial was established in 1992 at the Subtropical Experimental Center in the Chinese Academy of Forestry. The growth, stem-form qualities, and wood basic density of each provenance were investigated in December 2015. The findings indicated that the growth traits of Liriodendron possess significant genetic differences in terms of interaction between provenance and site. Analysis of growth related traits revealed that the choice of fast-growing provenances might improve trunk straightness but decrease the wood basic density. Ring width variance analysis showed that the variation coefficients increased for ring width of four 5-year ring segments between provenances, but the width decreased from pith to cambium, which suggested genetic improvement of wood productivity and density could be realized by provenance selection. Monan (MN) of Guizhou Province and Fuyang (FY) of Zhejiang Province were selected as two high-yield and high-quality provenances based on the analysis of radial variation patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript seeks to further the understanding of how silvicultural gap size affects stand development and growth patterns among species. The authors studied an experiment established more than 50 years ago in oak (Quercus spp.) dominated stands that tested three gap sizes, 0.02 ha, 0.16 ha and 0.46 ha. Statistical analysis addressed stand-level trends associated with tree size, density, and sawtimber volume as well as species recruitment and individual tree growth and volume. Distinct patterns among gap sizes were present in overall structural characteristics including a significant increase in year 51 sawtimber volume with increasing gap size. Data also indicated that conditions present in the different gap sizes had an influence on individual tree size and that the nature of this effect varied among species group. Tree recruitment among the primary species groups, maple (Acer spp.), oak and yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.), was strongly related to gap size and a notable trend with species shade tolerance was present. Results highlighted how shifting species proportions and changes in tree size associated with different gap sizes can alter important stand characteristics that affect management and forest utility within gap-based silvicultural approaches for upland mixed oak forests in the study region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liriodendron tulipifera (known as the tulip tree) is a woody species that has been previously classified as sensitive to ozone (O3) in terms of visible leaf injuries and photosynthetic primary reactions. The objective of this work is to give a thorough description of the detoxification mechanisms that are at the basis of O3 sensitivity. Biochemical and molecular markers were used to characterize the response of 1-year-old saplings exposed to O3 (120 ppb, 5 h day−1, for 45 consecutive days) under controlled conditions. O3 effects resulted in a less efficient metabolism of Halliwell-Asada cycle as confirmed by the diminished capacity to convert the oxidized forms of ascorbate and glutathione in the reduced ones (AsA and GSH, respectively). The reduced activity of AsA and GSH regenerating enzymes indicates that de novo AsA biosynthesis occurred. This compound could be a cofactor of several plant-specific enzymes that are involved in the early part of the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, as confirmed by the significant rise of PAL activity (+75%). The induction of the defence-related secondary metabolites (in particular, rutin and caffeic acid were about threefold higher) and the concomitant increase in transcript levels of PAL and CHS genes (+120 and 30%, respectively) suggest that L. tulipifera utilized this route in order to partially counteract the O3-induced oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To counter the threat of drought, which is expected to increase in the future, we analyzed the combined effects of elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration and drought on the photosynthetic apparatus and morphological traits in seedlings of yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera). The plants were grown for four months in a phytotron under different CO2 concentrations [ambient CO2, 430 ppm, AC) and elevated CO2, 640 ppm, EC] and water treatment [field capacity, FC and 50% of field capacity, FC50]. FC50 was sufficient for inducing a reduction in the photosynthetic rate of L. tulipifera. However, under FC50 combined with EC, we observed an increase in photosynthetic rate with increased photopigment content, photochemistry efficiency, and light harvesting ability. Further, decreased specific leaf area and increased wax coverage in EC suggested that EC contributed to protect chloroplasts and reduce water loss. In conclusion, functional improvements of the photosynthetic apparatus with changes in morphological traits were observed under FC50 combined with EC and EC ameliorated the adverse effect of FC50 on the seedlings of L. tulipifera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants can undergo external fluctuations in the natural light and dark cycle. The photosynthetic apparatus needs to operate in an appropriate manner to fluctuating environmental factors, especially in light. Yellow-poplar seedlings were exposed to nighttime artificial high-pressure sodium (HPS) lighting to evaluate night light-adaptation strategies for photosynthetic apparatus fitness relative to pigment contents, photosystem II photochemistry, photosynthetic parameters, histochemical analysis of reactive oxygen species, and plant biomass. As a result, seedlings exhibited dynamic changes including the enhancement of accessory pigments, the reduction of photosystem II photochemistry, increased stomatal limitation, downregulation of photosynthesis, and the decreased aboveground and belowground biomass under artificial night lighting. Histochemical analysis with 3,30-diaminobenzidine (DAB) and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) staining indicates the accumulation of in situ superoxide radicals (O2-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in leaves exposed to the lowest level of artificial night lighting compared to control. Moreover, these leaves exposed to artificial night lighting had a lower nighttime respiration rate. These results indicated that HPS lighting during the night may act as a major factor as repressors of the fitness of photosynthesis and growth patterns, via a modification of the photosynthetic light harvesting apparatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Plant Health (PLH) performed a pest categorisation of Davidsoniella virescens, a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Ceratocystidaceae. The species was moved from the genus Ceratocystis to the genus Davidsoniella following a revision of the family. The former species name Ceratocystis virescens is used in the Council Directive 2000/29/EC. The pathogen is regulated in Annex IIAI as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned on plants (other than fruit and seeds) and wood (including wood which has not kept its natural round surface) of Acer saccharum, originating in the USA and Canada. The fungus is native to eastern North America and causes symptoms mainly on A. saccharum, but also on Liriodendron tulipifera. The fungus is also reported as a saprotroph on various hardwood species. The pest could enter the EU via wood, plants for planting and cut branches. Hosts and favourable climatic conditions are widespread in the EU. The pest would be able to spread following establishment through sap-feeding insects, root grafts and movement of infected wood and plants for planting. The pest introduction could have impacts on Acer spp. and L. tulipifera trees in the EU, by causing wilting, yellowing and the development of small leaves, as well as dieback of branches and, eventually, the death of trees. Avoiding damaging trees (as wounding facilitates infection of the fungus) and maintaining healthy trees (as tree stress facilitates the disease) are available measures to reduce impacts. The main knowledge gaps concern (i) the biology and epidemiology of the pathogen (including the saprotrophic form), (ii) the role of insect vectors for entry and spread, and (iii) the susceptibility of Acer spp. either native to or more recently established in Europe. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as potential quarantine pest are met. For regulated non-quarantine pests, the criterion on the pest presence in the EU is not met. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which editor discusses various articles within the issue on topics including biomass chars production methods, use of Yellow poplar as the woody biomass and d physicochemical properties of biochar derived from apple tree branches.

Sixteen compounds were extracted and purified from the leaves of Liriodendron tulipifera. These compounds include aporphines, oxoaporphine, coumarin, sesquiterpene lactone, benzenoids, cyclitol and steroids. (+)-Norstephalagine (2) (an aporphine) and scopoletin (8) (a coumarin) were isolated from Liriodendron tulipifera leaves from the first time. The identified compounds were screened for their antiradical scavenging, metal chelating and ferric reducing power activities. The results have showed that these compounds have antioxidative activity. The study has also examined the chemopreventive property of the isolated compounds against human melanoma cells A375. The results shown that (−)-anonaine (1), (−)-liridinine (3), (+)-lirinidine (6), lysicamine (7) and epitulipinolide diepoxide (9) significantly inhibited the proliferation of melanoma cells. These results revealed that these compounds have antioxidative activity and chemopreventive activity in skin melanoma cells.

Surviving relict populations of species that were more widespread in ancient times can teach us a lot, such as evolution and genetic differentiation. One such relict plant is Liriodendron, of which populations remain in China (L. chinense (Hemsl.) Sarg.) and the USA (L. tulipifera L.). Studying the genetic structure of these populations would give insight into the genetic differentiation and the breeding strategy. In this work, we developed and characterized 29 novel simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers based on expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from hybrid Liriodendron (Liriodendron chinense × tulipifera) callus. In total, 29 SSRs with perfect primer-designed were used to assess genetic diversity and differentiation. The set of polymorphic EST-SSR loci was identified in 48 Liriodendron individuals, represented by 35 individuals sampled from 14 provenances of L. chinense and 13 individuals sampled from 5 provenances of L. tulipifera. Our results indicated that L. chinense populations possess slightly higher genetic diversity than L. tulipifera populations. Based on genetic distances, 48 Liriodendron individuals clustered into three groups (the eastern China L. chinense, the western China L. chinense and L. tulipifera), although the STRUCTURE analysis of the Liriodendron populations revealed just two clear genetic clusters (L. chinense and L. tulipifera). Among these 29 novel markers, ESSR119 showed an obvious species-specific characteristic which can be very useful in marker-assisted selection (MAS). In general, all these EST-SSR markers may have agronomic potential and constitute a basis for future studies on the identification, innovation, and even preservation of Liriodendron germplasms.

Spathodea campanulata Beauv (Bignoniaceae) has become a highly damaging environmental and agricultural weed in the Pacific Islands. It has been targeted for biological control due to the costly and inefficient nature of physical and chemical control methods. Determining the origin of weed populations has been increasingly recognised as an important component of successful biological control programmes, and may be important for the biological control of S. campanulata due to the high degree of morphological variability within the species, as well as the broad native distribution. Genetic matching, using inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSR’s), and morphological data found support for invasive Pacific Island S. campanulata plants originating from West Africa. Pacific and West African plants were genetically most similar, and were differentiated from native plants from East/Central Africa by PCA and Bayesian-clustering (STRUCTURE) analyses. Genetic data was corroborated by morphological data which showed that West African and Pacific Islands plants had more sparsely pubescent leaves compared to plants from East/Central Africa. Populations in South Africa, where the plant is introduced but not problematic, originated from a different source population than those in the Pacific Islands, probably in East/Central Africa. A greater sampling effort is required before the origin of the South African populations can be determined with certainty. Herbivores and pathogens for the Pacific Islands should be collected from West Africa as they are more likely to be compatible with S. campanulata plants in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In temperate deciduous forests, vertical gradients in leaf mass per area (LMA) and area-based leaf nitrogen (Narea) are strongly controlled by gradients in light availability. While there is evidence that hydrostatic constraints on leaf development may diminish LMA and Narea responses to light, inherent differences among tree species may also influence leaf developmental and morphological response to light. We investigated vertical gradients in LMA, Narea and leaf carbon isotope composition (δ13C) for three temperate deciduous species (Carpinus caroliniana Walter, Fagus grandifolia Ehrh., Liriodendron tulipifera L.) that differed in growth strategy (e.g., indeterminate and determinate growth), shade tolerance and leaf area to sapwood ratio (Al:As). Leaves were sampled across a broad range of light conditions within three vertical layers of tree crowns to maximize variation in light availability at each height and to minimize collinearity between light and height. All species displayed similar responses to light with respect to Narea and δ13C, but not for LMA. Light was more important for gradients in LMA for the shade-tolerant (C. caroliniana) and -intolerant (L. tulipifera) species with indeterminate growth, and height (e.g., hydrostatic gradients) and light were equally important for the shade-tolerant (F. grandifolia) species with determinate growth. Fagus grandifolia had a higher morphological plasticity in response to light, which may offer a competitive advantage in occupying a broader range of light conditions throughout the canopy. Differences in responses to light and height for the taller tree species, L. tulipifera and F. grandifolia, may be attributed to differences in growth strategy or Al:As, which may alter morphological and functional responses to light availability. While height was important in F. grandifolia, height was no more robust in predicting LMA than light in any of the species, confirming the strong role of light availability in determining LMA for temperate deciduous species [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An essay is presented on the meanings embedded in a tulip tree leaf and the associative process of mind. It discusses metaphors, consciousness, and identity of things. The author relates how a single leaf can set off a chain of associations in the mind and how a single leaf may possess numerous facets of possible implication and interpretation.

Biomass contains cellulose, xylan and lignin in a complex interwoven structure that hinders enzymatic hydrolysis of the cellulose. To separate these components in yellow poplar biomass, we sequentially pretreated with dilute sulfuric acid and enzymatically-generated peracetic acid. In the first step, the dilute acid with microwave heating (140°C, 5 min) hydrolyzed 90% of xylan. The xylose yield in hydrolysate after dilute acid pretreatment was 83.1%. In the second step, peracetic acid (60°C, 6 h) removed up to 80% of lignin. This sequential pretreatment fractionated biomass into xylan and lignin, leaving a solid residue enriched in cellulose (~80%). The sequential pretreatment enhanced enzymatic digestibility of the cellulase by removal of the other components in biomass. The glucose yield after enzymatic hydrolysis was 90.5% at a low cellulase loading (5 FPU/g of glucan), which is 1.6 and 18 times higher than for dilute acid-pretreated biomass and raw biomass, respectively. This novel sequential pretreatment with dilute acid and peracetic acid efficiently separates the three major components of yellow poplar biomass, and reduces the amount of cellulase needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents some of the promising biological control agents against the invasive African tulip tree, Spathodea campanulata Beauv. (Bignoniaceae), in some Pacific Islands countries like Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Samoa. Among the West Africa arthropods which are potential agents are the Paradibolia coerulea Bryant (Chrysomelidae) flea-beetle, the Bunia pagnana (Drake) (Tingidae) sap-sucking bug, and the Colomerus spathodeae Carmona (Eriophyidae) leaf- and shoot-galling mite.

Total phenolic compounds (TPC) from yellow poplar hydrolysate were extracted and their antioxidant activity was investigated. Of the different methods used for TPC extraction from the hydrolysate, solvent extraction was most effective having an efficiency of 84.84%. Based on adsorption and desorption of TPC on different materials, XAD resin showed high efficiency for adsorption and desorption in the range from 80.38 to 94.20% and from 75.14 to 82.10%, respectively. However, activated carbon was effective for adsorption of TPC, but the desorption efficiency was low, ranging from 0.55 to 3.31%, depending on the solvent. Among the resin types, XAD-16 was more effective in adsorption compared to XAD-4. All the extracts contained mainly sugar- and lignin-derived compounds, including xylose, acetic acid, and benzaldehyde. Antioxidant activity of the extract was determined using DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power. Solvent and pump XAD-16 resin extract showed excellent antioxidant activity comparable with that of the positive control. Strong significant correlations between TPC and antioxidant activities were observed at p -value of 0.001. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-cohort stands are increasingly recognized and valued because of their biological functioning, biological diversity, and resistance and resiliency to perturbations. These forest ecosystems are epitomized by multiple age classes, and often contain multiple canopy layers, a range of tree size classes, and large amounts of woody debris. Disturbance history reconstructions in multi-cohort stands provide an understanding of the processes that create these systems. In this study, we documented structure and composition, and used dendroecological techniques to reconstruct disturbance history on a 1 ha plot in a multi-cohort hardwood stand in the Fall Line Hills of Alabama. The stand was dominated by Quercus alba L. and Liriodendron tulipifera L. Mingling index and stem maps indicated that most species were well dispersed throughout the stand, with the exception of L. tulipifera and Carya tomentosa (Poiret) Nuttal, which were relatively clustered. The oldest trees in the stand established in the 1770s, however, the largest recruitment event occurred ca. 1945 in conjunction with a stand-wide canopy disturbance. We posit that spatial heterogeneity of canopy removal during this event was largely responsible for the observed compositional and spatial complexity documented in the stand. In addition to the 1945 event, we recorded another stand-wide canopy disturbance in 1906 and 84 gap-scale disturbance events from 1802 to 2003. The conditions documented in the stand can be used as a benchmark to guide the creation and maintenance of complex multi-cohort stand characteristics, an increasingly popular management goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) was chosen as the woody biomass for the production of charcoal for use in a liquid fuel slurry. Charcoal produced from this biomass resulted in a highly porous structure similar to the parent material. Micronized particles were produced from this charcoal using a multi-step milling process and verified using a scanning electron microscope and laser diffraction system. Charcoal particles greater than 50 µm exhibited long needle shapes much like the parent biomass while particles less than 50 µm were produced with aspect ratios closer to unity. Laser diffraction measurements indicated D10, D50, and D90 values of 4.446 µm, 15.83 µm, and 39.69 µm, respectively. Moisture content, ash content, absolute density, and energy content values were also measured for the charcoal particles produced. Calculated volumetric energy density values for the charcoal particles exceeded the No. 2 diesel fuel that would be displaced in a liquid fuel slurry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]