Stomatal parameters and atmospheric change since 7500 years before present: Evidence from Eremophila deserti (Myoporaceae) leaves from the Flinders Ranges region, South Australia

Abstract

Stomatal parameters (stomatal density, stomatal index and stomatal conductance) have been widely used to study vegetation response to long-term CO2 change, mostly in the Northern Hemisphere. We tested the applicability of the methods and interpretations to Australian desert vegetation, by using Eremophila deserti A.Cunn. (Myoporaceae) leaves. Subfossil samples dated at 7500 years before present and 3700 years before present from Leporillus species (stick-nest rat) middens from the Flinders Ranges were compared with herbarium and modern samples from the area. Stomatal density and stomatal conductance are problematic in their application to this species, probably because of the effect of the m..