The effects of elevated carbon dioxide on the allelopathic phytotoxin catechin and the phenolic composition of the invasive species spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa).

Abstract

The effects of eCO2 on C. maculosa could have ecological significance due to a possible increase in (-)-catechin in plants grown under eCO2. Because (-)-catechin is a carbon-based compound, it may increase with a higher supply of carbon in the atmosphere. If (-)- catechin concentrations increase in leaves, roots, and soil of C. maculosa grown under eCO2 then the destructive invasive effect of C. maculosa could increase, causing further economic damage, possible extinction of native grass species, and the creation of monoculture environments. Therefore, this study asks, 1) Will eCO2 increase secretion of catechin into the soil by spotted knapweed, 2) Will eCO2 increase catechin levels in the roots of spotted knapweed, and 3) Will eCO2 increase phenolic levels in the leaves of spotted knapweed?