Characterization of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus stoichiometry of plant leaves in the riparian zone of Dahuofang Reservoir

Abstract

Carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) are essential nutrients that promote plant growth and development and maintain the stability of ecosystem structure and function. Analyzing the C, N, and P characteristics of plant leaves aids in understanding the plant's nutrient status and nutrient limitation. Seasonal water‐level fluctuations in riparian zones lead to various ecological problems, such as reduced biodiversity and decreased ecosystem stability. Therefore, comprehending the stoichiometric characteristics of riparian zone plants and their nutrient response to plant traits is important for a deeper insight into riparian zone forest ecosystems. This study analyzed the C, N, and P contents of the leaves of 44 woody plants in the riparian zone of the Dahuofang Reservoir to investigate the stoichiometric characteristics of C, N, and P of trees in the region. The results showed that the average C content of the leaves in woody plants was 446.9 g kg−1; the average N content was 28.42 g kg−1; and the average P content was 2.26 g kg−1. Compared to global and regional scales, woody plants in the riparian zone of the Dahuofang Reservoir exhibited higher N and P contents but lower N:P ratios. Compared to other riparian zones, woody plant leaves in the riparian zone of Dahuofang Reservoir had relatively high N content and N:P ratios. Variations in plant stoichiometric characteristics across different life forms were minimal, with only tree leaf P content significantly lower than its in shrubs. There was no significant correlation between leaf C, N, and P in woody plants, while specific leaf area showed a negative correlation with leaf C content. Trees in the riparian zone have high leaf N and P content and are primarily N‐limited during the growing season. This study reveals the stoichiometric characteristics of leaves of woody plants in the riparian zone, which can contribute to an in‐depth understanding of leaf stoichiometric patterns and the factors influencing them among plant life types in the riparian zone.