The Stable Hydrogen Isotopic Signature: From Source Water to Tree Rings

Abstract The hydrogen isotopic signature (δ 2 H) of water in trees contains information on plant functional responses to climatic changes and the origin water. This is also true for non-exchangeable H NE ) organic matter, which additional physiological biochemical that can be dated specific years if extracted from annual rings trees. Despite this potential gaining unique insights δ tree-ring cellulose TRC ), it has not been widely used compared other isotope signals, likely due challenging methodological constraints interpretations these signals. In chapter, we first summarize ( H-) fractionation occurs between source tree review methods (e.g. nitration, equilibration, position-specific applications) calculations determine material. Building upon a summary current state knowledge, chapter provides an exhaustive synthesis papers, applications, associated data approximately 180 sites across globe (paired with modelled precipitation values climate data). allow us investigate hydrological-climatic effects driving pattern global scale, relationship oxygen isotopes same material, as well influence physiological-biochemical (e.g., species differences, growth) appear more important local or temporal scales than large spatial scales. Thus, when hydro-climatic influences isolated, gives novel abiotic biotic stresses. We conclude growing constellation metrics, including advancements H-processing (i.e., equilibration techniques allowing rapid determinations further refinements understanding post-photosynthetic H-fractionations will together provide many new opportunities understand past climates ecophysiology by using rings.