Photosynthetic pigment profiles of climbing plants for green wall applications in semi-arid urban areas: A case study in Van, Türkiye
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the photosynthetic pigment profiles of climbing and creeping plant species commonly used in the semi-arid urban landscape of Van, Türkiye. The objective was to assess their physiological performance and determine their suitability for green infrastructure and vertical greening applications.
Material and Methods: Chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), and Chl a/b ratios were determined using three different spectrophotometric approaches. The obtained data were statistically compared, and species were classified according to their pigment characteristics using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering.
Results: Absolute pigment values varied among analytical methods, but overall trends were consistent. The Chl a/b ratio differed significantly among methods (p<0.001). Solanum crispum and Rubia tinctorum showed the highest total chlorophyll contents (up to 54.09 mg g⁻¹ FW), whereas Campsis radicans and Lonicera japonica had lower pigment levels (<20 mg g⁻¹ FW). PCA and hierarchical clustering clearly separated species based on pigment composition.
Conclusion: Chlorophyll content and Chl a/b ratios serve as reliable indicators of light adaptation and photosynthetic efficiency in climbing plants. Incorporating these traits into species selection for vertical greening can enhance ecological resilience and ecosystem services in semi-arid urban environments.
Keywords
References
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