Lignin topochemistry of tracheid walls from a deformed, copper deficient
Pinus radiata (D. Don) tree was examined by linescan and point analyses using a Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy Dispersive Spectrometry. Both opposite and compression wood had abnormal lignin distributions compared to those observed in normal wood from a straight tree. Lignin contents in the compound middle lamella were lower than lignin contents in the secondary wall in both opposite and compression wood tracheids.
One of us (G. D.) held a Commonwealth Forestry Postgraduate Research Award during this study. The research was supported in part by a grant from the Reserve Bank of Australia Rural Credits Development Fund, the Pine Fund, and members of the forest industry