Reading the isotopic archive: carbon and oxygen stable isotope ratios as recorders of plant physiological processes

Stable isotopes of carbon and oxygen occur naturally in the environment. The ratios of minor to major isotopes for these elements are modified during incorporation into plant biomass. The extents to which these isotope ratios are modified reflect plant physiological processes. Because these isotopic signals are fixed in plant tissues, they can provide unique insights into the physiological functioning of plants in response to global environmental change. Effective interpretation of stable isotope signals requires a sound understanding of the processes leading to isotopic fractionations. This Future Fellowship will test mechanistic hypotheses aimed at improving interpretation of the stable isotope archive naturally recorded by plants.