Dynamics of non‐structural carbohydrates in terrestrial plants: a global synthesis

Abstract Plants store large amounts of non‐structural carbohydrates ( NSC ). While multiple functions of NSC have long been recognized, the interpretation of NSC seasonal dynamics is often based on the idea that stored NSC is a reservoir of carbon that fluctuates depending on the balance between supply via photosynthesis and demand for growth and respiration (the source–sink dynamics concept). Consequently, relatively high NSC concentrations in some plants have been interpreted to reflect excess supply relative to demand. An alternative view, however, is that NSC accumulation reflects the relatively high NSC levels required for plant survival; an important issue that remains highly controversial. Here, we…

• AV
  Alexander von Humboldt-Stiftung
• UO
  University of Montana
• NS
  National Science Council
• IC
  Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats