Seasonal patterns of nonstructural carbohydrate storage and mobilization in two tree species with distinct life-history traits.

This article investigates the seasonal dynamics and organ-specific storage of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC)—comprising starch and soluble sugars—in two coexisting tree species with contrasting life-history traits: the deciduous broadleaf German oak (Quercus acutissima Carruth.) and the evergreen coniferous Masson pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) in Central China. The study found that whole-tree NSC pools peaked in autumn for German oak and in summer for Masson pine, with Masson pine exhibiting larger overall NSC storage but smaller seasonal fluctuations compared to German oak. Organ-level analyses revealed that branches were the primary source of NSC mobilization in German oak, supporting leaf out, whereas roots played this role in Masson pine, likely contributing to growth and defense. These findings highlight distinct carbon storage and mobilization strategies linked to tree functional types, providing insights into their ecological adaptation and informing forest management and conservation.