An investigation on the effect of traffic pollution on some leaf properties in two different types of oak

In this study, it was aimed to determine the effect of traffic pollution on leaf fresh, turgor and dry weight, relative water content, dry matter content, leaf area, spesific leaf area, chlorophyll a content, N, C and P use efficiency and profficiency, and N, C and P concentrations in Quercus cerris and Q. robur. By this way it is tried to estimate the how some mechanisms may be affected by traffic pollution. According to the results, in all localities and in both Quercus species, there were significant differences in leaf features among months. It is thought that it may be based on plant growth stages and climatic conditions. In addition, Significant variations were determined in leaf features based on distance from the motorway. These variations indicates that the photosynthesis and water potential of plants may be affected by traffic pollution. Significant differences were also determined in leaf features between species. Nutrient use efficiencies and profficiencies were also found to be associated with the settled dust samples. So, it is thought that the traffic pollution may affect the nutrient use strategies of plants.