The epicuticular waxes of <i>Pinus</i><i>strobus</i> subjected to air pollutants

Abstract

The interaction of air pollutants with the epicuticular waxes of eastern white pine (Pinusstrobus L.) needles was investigated. The morphology and distribution of waxes differed between needles from trees growing in locally polluted and unpolluted atmospheres. On needles subjected to air pollutants stomatal occlusion was prominent and structural wax integrity was disrupted. Epicuticular wax modification may be an initial effect of air pollutants.