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Dryad

Data for variation of magnesium drives plant adaption to heterogeneous environments by regulating efficiency in photosynthesis on a large scale

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Aug 22, 2024 version files 602.58 MB

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg) is a vital nutrient for plants, and its role in photosynthesis, enzyme regulation, and resistance to environmental stress is becoming increasingly evident. However, there is a paucity of knowledge regarding the characteristics of Mg (content, density, and stock) on a large scale, particularly at the community level, which serves as a fundamental unit for linking to ecosystem functions. A leaf-branch-trunk-root-matched database of the Mg content (mg g–1) and biomass (g m–2) of plant organs across 1972 sampling sites in China was constructed based on field surveys and data compilation. Using machine learning algorithms, we comprehensively explored the spatial patterns and main influencing factors of plant Mg content and density (g m–2). Deserts exhibited higher Mg content, with the primary influencing factors being high temperature and soil Mg supply. High Mg density values occurred in forests. The spatial patterns of Mg content and density underscore the adaptation of plants to environmental changes and nutrient retention capacity of forests, respectively. Our research not only provides valuable information on the distribution of Mg across different communities.