Effects of light intensity on non-structural carbohydrate contents and C:N:P stoichiometry in Cunninghamia lanceolata and Schima superba

Background: An understanding of the light requirement of tree species has paramount importance in management of mixed species forests. Here, we examined changes in leaf morphological traits, non-structural carbohydrate contents and C:N:P stoichiometry in Cunninghamia lanceolata and Schima superba seedlings that were grown under five light intensity levels (5%, 15%, 40%, 60%, and 100% sunlight) in a shade house. Results: Mean leaf area was significantly larger under 40% light intensity for C. lanceolata while maximum mean leaf area was observed under 15% light intensity for S. superba seedlings, whereas leaf mass per area decreased consistently with decreasing light intensity in S. superba; Non-structural carbohydrate content was higher for S. superba than C. lanceolata when seedlings were exposed to 100%, 15% and 5% light intensity; Leaf C:N ratio decreased while N:P ratio increased with decreasing light intensity; leaf C:P ratio was highest in 40% light intensity for C. lanceolata and in 60% light intensity for S. superba. Conclusion: S. superba is better adapted to low light intensity than C. lanceolata through enlarged leaf area and increased carbohydrate reserves that allow the plant to better maintain C balance. From mixed species planting viewpoint, it would be advisable to plant S. superba later once the canopy of C. lanceolata is well developed but allowing enough sunlight (up to 15%-60%).