The condition of Norway spruce epicuticular waxes at higher altitudes in 2005--2009

The paper deals with the evaluation of damage to the assimilatory apparatus of spruce by above-limit concentrations of ground ozone using a method of the study of changes of epicuticular waxes at Norway spruce. The monitoring was carried out in ve Norway spruce stands aged 35 years at an altitude of 790 to 890 m. The ground ozone concentration was measured during the growing season right in assessed stands. Above-limit concentrations of ground ozone resulted in the de- crease and destruction of epicuticular waxes on the surface of Norway spruce nee- dles. Even necrotic spots were evident on the needle surface at the most exposed plot under monitoring. The degree of damage to epicuticular waxes was depend- ent on measured concentrations of ground ozone. Statistical evaluation proved the high dependence of damage to epicuticular waxes on concentrations of ozone R 2 = 0.991. The higher degradation of epicuticular waxes was always evident at the second needle year-class as a result of cumulative e ects of ozone, unfavourable climatic e ects and due to the natural ageing of needles.