Ozone effects on nitrogen incorporation and superoxide dismutase activity in spruce seedlings (Picea abies L.)

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Abstract
The influence of low concentrations of ozone (100 ppb) on nitrogen incorporation and the specific activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in 3‐yr‐old cloned spruce seedlings was studied under controlled conditions (potted plants in fumigation chambers). For the determination of nitrogen uptake, 15N tracer experiments were performed using emission spectrometric isotope analysis. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was determined by inhibition of formazan formation. Low doses of ozone led to a significant increase in both NO3‐N uptake from the soil and in specific SOD activity. The results show that stable isotope 15N tracer technique analysis is a suitable tool for the investigation of potential impacts of air pollutants on the nitrogen metabolism of plants.