Effect of altitude on the composition of suberin monomers in the outer bark of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.)

The changes in the amount and composition of suberin monomers of Scots pine outer bark, which is grown natively in Turkey, was investigated as a function of growing altitude. Samples were taken from every 100 m to 1300 m which was the highest point of the sampling area. While the total amount of suberin monomers is varied within the range 17.56–47.20 mg/g, there was no correlation between total amount and altitude. Total amount of alkanols of suberin monomers decreased when the altitude increased. Alcohol 24:0 was seen as the dominant constituent and its amount decreased from 100 m to 1300 m. There was not a clear change in the total amount of alkanoic, dioic and hydroxy acids. Acid 1,18-hydroxy-18:1 and acid 1,18-dioic-18:1 were determined as the main compounds in all samples.

► In the study, we have determined the composition and the amount of suberin monomers of Scots pine (P. sylvestris L.) bark.
► We have supplied the samples from 118 m to 1296 m of the same area.
► Dioic and hydroxy acids compose the highest proportion of the monomers in all altitudes.