Cell-wall lignin content related to tracheid dimensions in drought-sensitive Austrian pine (Pinus nigra)

The intra-annual distribution of cell-wall lignin concentration was determi ned in Austrian pine tree rings and compared with tracheid diameter, lumen width, cell wall thickness and proportion of cell wall area. Lignin concent ration was highly correlated with all tracheid dimensions, but only the pro portion of cell wall area exhibited a direct statistically significant rela tionship. Since cell dimensions in Austrian pine are subjected to the indir ect and direct influences of the water status of trees, the negative correl ation between cellular lignin content and the proportion of cell wall area is attributed to an indirect effect of water stress on lignification in pin e tracheids.