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Article

Analysis of Phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Grown in Different Geographic Environments

1
College of Forestry, Southwest Forestry University, Kumming 650024, China
2
Key Laboratory for Sympodial Bamboo Research, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650024, China
3
Yunnan Gaoligongshan National Nature Reserve, Baoshan Bureau, Baoshan 678000, China
*
Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Forests 2025, 16(6), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16060975
Submission received: 10 March 2025 / Revised: 13 May 2025 / Accepted: 5 June 2025 / Published: 10 June 2025
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecology and Management)

Abstract

Phytoliths play a crucial role in plant growth and development. This paper analyzes the characterization of the culm sheath phytoliths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata across different geographic environments. The extraction of phytoliths was performed using microwave digestion, and the morphology of the phytolith was observed microscopically. The culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata from GXNN, XSBN, GZGD, FJFZ, and FAFU Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata were selected for the study. The results indicated that the phytolith content and concentration were ranked as FJFZ > XSBN > GXNN > FAFU > GZHN, and the phytolith content and concentration were geographically significantly different. Saddle, Rondel, Silica stoma, and Scrobiculate (>70%) were observed in culm sheaths developed in different geographic environments, and phytolith morphology assemblages are largely homogeneous by genetic conservatism, but the proportion of each morphology varies across geographic environments. The main distribution of phytolith particle size ranges from 0 to 100 μm, with the highest peak in the 10–20 μm interval, followed by a decrease, and an elevation of up to 100–200 μm, followed by a significant reduction. The small size of the phytolith morphology was influenced by climatic factors. Specifically, the length, width, and area of XSBN increased with higher precipitation levels. Similarly, both the length and width of GDGZ also increased with increased precipitation. For FJFZ, the length increased with riding temperatures, while its width increased with higher precipitation. Additionally, the width of GXNN expanded with increasing temperatures. The present study supplemented the phytoliths analysis of the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata, which provided reference value for further research on the ability of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in carbon sequestration and other aspects, and contributed essential data for the robust development of the bamboo industry. Moreover, bamboo plants represent a significant natural solution to climate change, offering ecological, economic, and social benefits. This further encourages the protection of natural bamboo forests, the expansion of artificial cultivation, and the vigorous promotion of the bamboo industry and bamboo products. By maximizing their critical roles in forest carbon sequestration and climate regulation, bamboo plants provide a viable solution for global climate governance.

1. Introduction

In his 1804 study of plants concerning silicon, De Saussure first identified phytoliths, marking a significant advancement in the field [1]. It was not until 1988 that the study of phytoliths in China truly began, particularly in the context of archaeology [2]. Phytoliths are silica structures formed in higher plants, resulting from the absorption of monosilicic acid (H4SiO4) by the root system. This silica is transported through the vascular bundles to various organs of the plant, where it precipitates in the cell wall, cell lumen, and interstitial water-containing silicon dioxide minerals, and is the main form of the existence of silicon in the plant body [3,4]. The composition is mainly silicon dioxide (SiO2), along with small amounts of water, organic carbon, and various trace elements [5]. Phytoliths exhibit high physical resistance to wind and decomposition [6], and have an extremely long turn [7,8]. Phytoliths can be preserved for a long time in a variety of media even after the death and decay of the plant, it will not decompose quickly, it has strong stability, and it is capable of providing direct, high-resolution records of vegetation and environmental change over short time scales [9]. Consequently, phytoliths reveal their unique value in agricultural science, paleoclimate and paleoenvironmental reconstruction, archaeology, ecology, and biodiversity conservation.
China is the wealthiest country in the world regarding bamboo species, boasting over 500 varieties. Congenial bamboos account for 70% of the global bamboo species resources, encompassing approximately. 16 genera within China [10,11]. Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata (The name is derived from the Chinese Plant Catalogue) is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions. This is a variant of Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. Ex J. C. Wendland (The name is derived from the Chinese Plant Catalogue) belongs to the subfamily Bambusoideae and is characterized as a sizeable, underground stem meristematic, clump-forming bamboo species. Its poles and branches exhibit a striking yellow and green color with vertical stripes, contributing to its tall, form, ornamental value, and significance in scientific research. The culm sheaths consist of segments and tongues; they serve as the outer covering that envelops the bamboo shoots during their development into mature bamboo. As bamboo grows, the culm sheaths wrap around the base of the bamboo poles, providing mechanical support and protection. The base of the culm sheath is broader, encasing the internodes, while the ligule of the culm sheath is a membranous projection at the apex of the culm sheath blade, which significantly reduces evaporation. After a certain growth period, the culm sheaths gradually fall off, and their morphology serves as a critical basis for the identification and classification of bamboo at the genus and species levels within the subfamily.
Initially, phytolith research concentrated on crops such as rice [12] and wheat [13]. Extensive studies have revealed that the bamboo subfamily of the Gramineae family is a significantly silica-rich plant, characterized by high phytolith content [14]. Currently, the characteristics of phytoliths and their role in ecosystem carbon sinks have been partially elucidated in widely distributed bamboo species, including Dendrocalamus giganteus Wall. Ex Munro [15,16], Dendrocalamus brandisii (Munro) Kurz [17], Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J. Houz, and pleioblastus amarus (Keng) P. C. Keng [18]. However, systematic phytolith analysis of various parts of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata has yet to be reported. This study aims to investigate the content, concentration, and morphological characteristics of phytoliths in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata across different geographical environments. This research seeks to enhance our understanding of the natural attributes of bamboo plants, particularly how phytoliths can encapsulate and sequester organic carbon for extended periods during their formation. As bamboo plants wither and decay, phytoliths enter the soil, contributing to the regulation of soil permeability and water-holding capacity, and assisting in the silicon–carbon–nutrient cycle. The carbon sequestration potential of these phytoliths can reach several thousand or even tens of thousands of years [8,19], marking them as significant carbon sinks in terrestrial ecosystems. In the context of promoting the strategy of “bamboo instead of plastic”, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the phytolith bodies from the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata. The development of bamboo plants plays an important role in stabilizing climate change, maintaining ecological balance, and promoting sustainable development. Bamboo plants exhibit several notable advantages, including a rapid growth rate, high photosynthetic efficiency, and effective atmospheric CO2 absorption. Their dense root systems play a crucial role in maintaining soil and water, enhancing regional water conservation capacity, reducing local temperatures, and improving microclimate conditions. Additionally, the biomass in the root systems serves as a long-term carbon storage solution, and can be transformed into bamboo products, thereby contributing to reduced carbon emissions. Furthermore, bamboo’s ability to thrive in extreme environments positions it as an ideal candidate for ecological restoration efforts, supporting the sustainable development of the bamboo industry and enhancing bamboo forest productivity. This research lays the groundwork for understanding phytolith carbon sequestration and its environmental responses based on phytolith analysis.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Sampling Location

This study selected three provinces and four locations in China. The sampling locations include two subtropical regions: Guangdong, Guangzhou (South China National Botanical Garden, hereinafter referred to as GZGD), Fuzhou, Fujian (Fuzhou National Forest Park, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, hereinafter referred to as FJFZ; FAFU), and Nanning, Guangxi (Nanning Qingxiushan Park, hereinafter referred to as GXNN). The average terrain in these areas is characterized by high hills. Additionally, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan (Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of Chinese Academy of Sciences, hereinafter referred to as XSBN) is noted for its tropical and mountainous landscape. Mature clum sheaths and ligules from Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata were collected for analysis. The distribution of sampling sites is shown in Figure 1.

2.2. Plant Material

Mature culm sheaths and ligules (Figure 2) were collected from Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in autumn 2022, coinciding with the species’ peak maturity stage, and a minimum of 100 g of samples was collected from each site, with a sealed bag divided into packages, and labeled with the location, time, climate, and the collector. It was brought back for processing.

2.3. Sample Handling

Culm sheath samples were washed to remove impurities, then placed in an oven at 65 °C, until completely dry, after which they were stored in a dark room. A mixture of cuttings along the midvein of the culm sheaths, along with a few additional culm sheaths, was prepared, ensuring that the total mass did not exceed 0.3100 g, with four samples taken from each group. The samples were placed in an ablution tank, to which 10 mL of HNO2 and 2 mL of perchloric acid were added (The reagents were all provided by the Public Technology Service Center of Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences). The mixture was allowed to stand for 12 h to ensure complete dissolution, followed by boiling in a decanter for up to two hours. When 5–7 drops of liquid remained in the tank, 3 mL of dilute hydrochloric acid was added, and the mixture was boiled in the decanter for an additional 5 min. After cooling, the supernatant was poured into a 15 mL tube and centrifuged at 3500 r/min for five minutes. This process was repeated four times, with ultrapure water, used for cleaning each time. The supernatant was checked for neutrality; if not neutral, centrifugation continued until neutrality was achieved. The completely centrifuged liquid was retained in 4/1 of the tube and weighed after drying in an oven at 65 °C until it turned into a white powder, from which the phytolith content was calculated. One of the duplicate samples obtained from centrifugation was placed into a spore pellet, and 2 mL of dilute hydrochloric acid was added to ensure complete dissolution. Subsequently, 10 mL of ultrapure water was added to fix the volume, followed by further centrifugation until neutral. One slide per sample was prepared and fixed with Canada balsam. Each slide was observed at 400× magnification to analyze the phytoliths, which were used for calculating the phytolith concentration and observing morphology types.
phytoilth content formula: C2 = (m2/M2) × 100
where C2 is the content of the phytolith (%); m2 is the weight of the extracted phytolith (g); and M2 is the weight of the culm sheath specimen (g).
Calculation formula for phytolith concentration: W = n × M/(N/m)
where W is the phytolith concentration (106 grains-g−1); n is the number of grains of phytolith on the slide; N is the number of observed stone pine spore grains; M is the number of spores contained in 1 piece of stone pine spores (27,560); and m is the weight of the sample (g).

2.4. Data Processing

The slides were photographed using a 400× optical microscope (Olympus BX 53), and ArcGIS 10.7 was utilized for mapping the sampling sites (Manufacturer: Ningbo Shunyu Instrument Co., Ltd., Yuyao City, China). ImageJ software (Version number: 1.54b) was used to measure the phytolith shape length, width and area, and phytolith particle size. Analyzed using a Malvern Mastersizer 300 laser particle sizer (Mastersizer 3000 HydroEV, Malvern Panalytical, Malvern, UK), the analyzed particle size parameters are the following: ultrasonic time 90 s, substance phytolith, refractive index 1.52, absorptive index 0.1, density 2.65, dispersing medium pure water, refractive index 1.35, shade lower limit 0.1%, and upper limit 20%. Three sets of replicates for the phytolith data were set up to ensure the reliability of the experimental results, at least 150 images of phytolith morphology per slide were taken, and Adobe Photoshop 2022 was used for image processing. One-way and LSD ANOVA were performed using SPSS 25.0, and Origin 2021 was utilized for statistical plotting.

3. Analysis of Phytolith Content in Culm Sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in Different Geographical Environments

3.1. Phytolith Content

The phytolith content of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata grown in different geographic environments varied considerably. According to the results shown in Figure 3, the trend of high and low changes in phytolith content was FJFZ > GXNN > XSBN > FAFU > GZGD. Culm sheaths of FJFZ had the highest phytolith content of 7.03%, which was significantly higher than the other four provinces, showing a very high degree of phytolith enrichment, followed by GXNN with 5.06%, and XSBN and FAFU phytolith contents of 3.46% and 2.34%, respectively, with phytolith contents below the average. Comparison between the two sites shows less difference, with a GZGD phytolith content of 0.98%, which is lower than the average value of 3.17%; it shows a lower phytolith enrichment capacity compared to FJFZ.

3.2. Particle Size

In this study, the experimental data were divided into three replicate groups to ensure the precision of the survey. Intervals above 100–1000 μm were categorized in increments of 100 μm (Figure 4), and the grain size of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata phytoliths was analyzed. The results indicate that the particle size intervals of XSBN and FJFZ are similar, with the highest rate of phytolith particle size distribution occurring in the range of 10–20 μm, which constitutes more than 25% of the total. This is followed by the 0–10 μm, 20–30 μm, and 30–40 μm, but with a stepwise decrease from the 20–30 μm particle size interval until the 100–200 μm particle size interval appears to be significantly elevated, from the 200–300 μm to 900–1000 μm interval range phytolith, The FAFU, GXNN, and GZGD grain size intervals were similar, and the overall grain size intervals varied relatively smoothly, were similarly elevated in the 100–200 μm interval range, and the particle size plant remained variable after the 200–300 μm particle size range. The proportion of zones with particle sizes larger than 200 μm averaged >1%, unlike the XSBN and FJFZ grain size variations. However, as a whole, the phytolith particle size is mainly distributed in 0–100 μm.

3.3. Phytolith Concentration

The concentration of phytoliths from Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata exhibits significant variation across different geographic environments, highlighting distinct geographic distribution characteristics. The overall concentration was measured at 3.77 × 106 particles/g, indicating a high level (Figure 5). The observed trends in phytolith concentration were as follows: GXNN > FJFZ > XSBN > FAFU > GZGD. Notably, the phytolith concentration in GXNN reached 5.24 × 106 particles/g, which is substantially higher compared to other regions (p < 0.05). In the regions with medium to high concentrations, FJFZ and XSBN reported phytolith concentrations of 3.99 × 106 particles/g and 3.91 × 106 particles/g, respectively, indicating a remarkable convergence in values. Conversely, the concentrations in the low concentration areas, FAFU and GZGD, were 1.47 × 106 particles/g and 1.16 × 106 particles/g, respectively. Overall, the variation in phytolith concentration was considerable, suggesting that environmental factors may significantly influence these differences.

3.4. Morphology and Percentage of Phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Grown in Different Geographic Environments

In the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in different geographic environments, the phytolith is rich in morphology. According to the International Code for Phytolith Nomenclature 1.0 [21] and ICPN 2.0 [22], phytoliths can be used to classify and name plants based on morphology (shape, structure, ornamentation, etc.) characteristics, and the patterns with a high frequency of occurrence were counted and summarized into 15 representative types, as shown in Figure 6:
Fourteen morphologies with a high frequency of occurrence were observed in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata grown in different geographic environments. The main phytolith types in this study were Saddle, Rondel, Silica stoma, Saddle/Rondel, Short acutem, Acute bulbosus, Extended Acute, Elongate, and Scrobiculate. According to Table 1, Saddle, Rondel, Silica stoma, and Scrobiculate accounted for the most significant proportion of phytolith morphology. The average rate of Saddle is 14.45%, the average percentage of Rondel is 40.74%, and the average rate of Silica stoma was 7.35%. The average rate of Scrobiculate is 10.88%, more than 70% of all phytolith forms. It is the primary phytolith type in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata and can be used as the basis for the identification of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata. Five-spiked Rondels, Bilobate, Uberculate, and Bracgiate, Elongate forms did not occur in all sites; differences due to environmental and other factors can, therefore, not be ruled out.
Rondel features are more pronounced, producing a variety of domed irregular types. In Figure 7, Rondel is subdivided into Flattop Rondels, Two-Spiked Rondels, Three-Spiked Rondels, Four-Spiked Rondels, Five-Spiked Rondels, and Special Rondels. Among the Rondels, Flattop Rondels and Two-Spiked Rondels have a larger share, with an average share of 12.13% versus 11.32%. Five-Spiked Rondels did not appear in all locations, with the lowest percentage at 0.55%. The percentage of all rounded table shapes is ordered from largest to smallest: Flattop Rondel > Two-Spiked Rondels > Special Rondels > Three-Spiked Rondels > Four-Spiked Rondels > Five-Spiked Rondels.

3.5. Comparison of the Length, Width, and Area of the Rondel in the Culm Sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Culm Sheaths

There is less variation in length and width and more variation in area in the size parameter of the Rondel in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata grown in different geographic environments (Figure 8). The length, width, and area distribution ranges are as follows: 10.0–11.8 μm2, 9.1–13.3 μm2, and 66.5–112.3 μm2. The length distribution size order is the following: GZHN > FAFU > GXNN > XSBN > FJFZ. The size order of width distribution is the following: GZHN > XSBN > FAFU > GXNN > FJFZ. The order of area distribution is the following: GZHN > FAFU > XSBN > GXNN > FJFZ. The length, width, and area are all the largest for GZHN and always the smallest for FJFZ. Overall, the coefficients of variation for the length and width were 8.3% and 18.9%, respectively, whereas the coefficient of variation for the area reached 27.3%.

4. Correlation Analysis of Intergolden Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Phytolith with Temperature and Precipitation Grown in Different Geographic Environments

The size and morphology of phytoliths are closely correlated with climatic factors. Their morphology characteristics and dimensions are influenced not only by bamboo growth and environmental conditions but also exhibit location-specific relationships between phytolith length, width, surface area, and environmental influences, including the surface area and climatic variables. According to the results presented in Figure 9, in XSBN, phytolith length, width, and area show significant positive correlations with annual precipitation but negative correlations with annual temperature. In contrast, in GZGD, phytolith length, width, and area exhibit negative correlations with annual temperature and significant positive correlations with annual precipitation, particularly concerning area. In FJFZ, phytolith length exhibits a positive correlation with annual temperature, while the width and area demonstrate negative correlations. The annual rainfall is negatively correlated with length and area but positively correlated with width. In GXNN, the annual temperature exhibits negative correlations with phytolith length and area but a positive correlation with width, while the annual precipitation reveals negative correlations with length, width, and area. In XSBN and GZGD, phytolith length, width, and area display transparent relationships with annual precipitation but lack significant associations with annual temperature. Notably, in FJFZ, the phytolith area shows no correlation with the annual precipitation or temperature. In contrast, the length, width, and area at the other three locations exhibit minimal associations with both annual temperature and precipitation.

5. Discussion

5.1. Analysis of the Content and Concentration of Phytoliths in the Culm Sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in Different Geographic Environments

The primary chemical component of phytoliths, SiO2, is present in plants at concentrations ranging from 67% to 95% [23]. Silicon is enriched in various plant organs, contributing to the formation of phytolith bodies. The strong stability of phytoliths sallows them to endure corrosion, extreme temperatures, and extremely low temperatures, and plant death phytoliths can still be preserved for a long time [24,25]. The phytolith content in previous studies was leaves > branches > rods > underground parts [25,26]. Because the culm sheaths are not the bamboo plant growth process has with its development, and then the internodes stop growing, the bamboo rod will fall off when it grows, have not received much attention in previous studies, but the relatively sizable phytolith content of culm sheaths. Incorporation of cauline leaves (culm sheaths), the second leaf organ of bamboo, in the study of different organ phytolith of Ru, X. Ferrocalamus strictus J. R. Xue and P. C. Keng, showed that the phytolith content of culm sheaths is second only to that of the nutrient leaves; therefore, it is essential to carry out studies on culm sheaths [27]. Culm sheaths grown in different geographic environments showed inconsistent phytolith content and phytolith concentration, with FJFZ > GXNN > XSBN > FAFU > GZGD and GXNN > FJFZ > XSBN > FAFU > GZGD, respectively. This cannot be ruled out because of its absorption of phytolith and comparison of phytolith content, and the concentration in different locations showed significant differences, with the FJFZ phytolith content reaching 7.03% and GZHN phytolith content reaching only 0.98%. The FJFZ phytolith concentration reached and GZHN phytolith concentration reached only 0.98 × 106 grains/g. Referring to the studies of Wang, S.Y. [28,29], Li, Z.H. [28], Chen, X.J. [30], and Xu, X.B. [31], the hypothesis that Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata influences phytolith formation by regulating a key gene through its genetic characterization is proposed. The difference in the silica content of the same bamboo plant in the exact location is more apparent. The same bamboo species grown in different geographic environments will have apparent changes in both the phytolith content and concentration of phytoliths due to various factors such as temperature, precipitation, soil, and microorganisms.

5.2. Morphology Analysis of Culm Sheath Phytomorphology of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Culm Sheaths Grown in Different Geographic Environments

Early scholars commonly utilized spore pollen to demonstrate the paleovegetation climatic migratory processes on a large scale. Stillstudies involving spore pollen face challenges in distinguishing between species, genera, and subfamilies. In contrast, graminaceous phytoliths can be identified at the levels of subfamilies, clades, genera, and species [32,33,34]. Compared to sporulation, phytoliths are characterized by in situ deposition and are less prone to transportation. They are commonly found in modern and bottom sediments, can exist in strata that are inaccessible to sporulation, and serve as a complementary source of information to sporulation studies [35,36]. Brown et al. investigated the morphological types of phytolith in different parts of 112 species of graminaceous plants, which were classified into more than 130 types in eight major groups [37]. Mulholland further refined the short-celled phytolith to correspond with the three subfamilies of Graminae [38]. In botany, phytolith morphology is utilized in the study of plant taxonomy and ecology. Phytoliths are specific silicified bodies formed by plant cells during the process of silicification. Genetic mechanisms dominate morphology, preserving the original cellular morphology, and the ability discriminate between plant taxa and representative ecological indices by analyzing the morphological parameters (e.g., contours, ornamentation, etc.) of phytoliths [20,39,40]. The present study agrees with the above that the same species of bamboo grown in different geographic environments still produce phytoliths of a similar morphology and type; this feature suggests that phytoliths are not dominated in their recognizable characteristics by external environmental factors. Gramineae develop mainly long-celled, motorized, and short-celled phytoliths. The phytolith morphology of plants in the bambusoideae is mostly long-saddle, round blocky, acute, Silica stoma, and elongate [41,42,43], Saddle phytolith is the signature morphology of the subfamily bamboo [20]. Saddle, Rondel, Silica stoma, Extended Acute, and Scrobiculate were found in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata at different sites. The highest percentage of Saddle, Rondel, Silica stoma, and Scrobiculate accounts for more than 70% of the total, which is dominant. Depending on the influence of the cellular structure of the plant cell itself, Saddle, Rondel, Silica stoma, and Scrobiculate phytolith are earlier phytolith morphologies that occur during plant growth [44]. Acute bulbosus, bracgiate, elongate entire, elongate dentate, elongate dendritic, elongate bulbous, uberculate, etc. only occur in individual areas or a tiny small proportion, due to differences in bamboo age and the growing environment [1]. The proportion of Scrobiculate is higher in the Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata, and this feature can be used as a basis for identifying the Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata.

5.3. Economic and Ecological Significance of Culm Sheath Phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata

Phytolith research has been applied across various fields, including plant taxonomy, paleoenvironmental studies, archaeology, geology, agro-archaeology, carbon isotope dating, Chinese medicine research, and phytolith radiometric dating, demonstrating significant application value [45,46,47,48]. Bamboo forests are a significant component of the world’s forests, often referred to as the “second forest”. They have a wide distribution, with the global bamboo forest area estimated at approximately. 22 million hectares, while China accounts for about 7.2 million hectares of this total [49]. Future projections indicate that the area of bamboo forests in China will continue to expand. Further research has demonstrated that bamboo forest ecosystems in China sequester approximately 1.43 × 109 t·C, which constitutes 5.1% of the nation’s total carbon stock [50]. Consequently, the ecological importance of bamboo forests is expected to increase. The 2023 National Distribution of a three-year action plan aims to accelerate the development of initiatives such as “Bamboo instead of plastic”, which has emerged as a key strategy for promoting green and sustainable development in China. By 2025, the initial establishment of the “Bamboo instead of plastic” industrial system, “Bamboo instead of plastic” is based on the biological characteristics of bamboo plants [51], the plasticity of the material, and its outstanding carbon sequestration capacity. It is the fastest-growing biomass material in the world, with a daily growth rate of up to 1.21 m [52,53]. Furthermore, its above-ground biomass is substantial, coupled with a high regenerative capacity. The carbon sequestration capacity of bamboo ecosystems ranks second only to that of dry crop ecosystems, with Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J. Houz. 1.96 × 105 t CO2 per year [54]. Bamboo forests exhibit a carbon-negative profile throughout their growth process. Substituting 600 million tons of bamboo for PVC can lead to a reduction of 4 billion tons of CO2 emissions. Furthermore, there are over 10,000 types of products made from bamboo, which permeate various aspects of daily life [52]. In light of the conditions of “Bamboo instead of plastic”, it is crucial to develop extensive bamboo forests due to their significant carbon sequestration capabilities. This study reveals that the phytolith content of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata varies considerably across different geographic environments, with the highest phytolith content observed in the FZFJ region. This finding underscores the enhanced carbon sequestration potential that can be achieved through widespread planting in the FJFZ, which is identified as the most suitable location for the phytolith production of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata among the four sites examined. The International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR) has integrated bamboo resources into global climate action initiatives. Bamboo forests are unique ecosystems that provide significant ecological, economic, and cultural values. Through scientific research and rational utilization, these forests can enhance their roles as carbon sinks and in biodiversity conservation. The study of the phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata will not only help to supplement the blank of the study of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata but also help to promote the development of the “Bamboo instead of plastic” industry as an important resource for global ecological governance by means of phytolith analysis. The study of the phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata will not only help to fill the gap in the study of the phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata but also to find out more suitable areas for the growth of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata, which will help to promote the development of the industry of “Bamboo instead of plastic”, and become an important resource for global ecological governance.

6. Conclusions

In this paper, we investigate the characteristics of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata phytolith grown in various geographic environments. This study addresses a gap in the research on phytoliths within the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata, and the study of phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata helps to deepen the understanding of bamboo plants from macroscopic to microscopic, and provides a microscopic foundation for enhancing the productivity of bamboo forests and promoting the sustainable development of the bamboo industry. The results are as follows: (1) The trends of phytolith content and concentration were FJFZ > GXNN > XSBN > FAFU > GZGD and GXNN > FJFZ > XSBN > FAFU > GZGD, respectively. The phytolith content of FJFZ was 7.03%, and the phytolith concentration of GXNN was 5.24 × 106 particles/g, which was significantly higher than the other regions. (2) The particle size of phytoliths is mainly distributed in the interval of 0–100 μm, with the highest single peak in the interval of 100–200 μm. (3) The morphology of phytoliths in the Saddle, Rondel, Silica stoma, and Scrobiculate in all types accounted for more than 70% of the percentage, the appearance of more Special Rondels, and Scrobiculate accounted for a similarly high proportion of the basis of identification of the Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata. (4) The length, width, and area of phytolith morphology are influenced by climatic factors. XSBN exhibits a positive correlation between the length, width, and area with precipitation, while showing a relationship with temperature. Similarly, GZGD demonstrates a positive correlation between these dimensions and precipitation, but an inverse relationship with temperature. Notably, a higher precipitation correlates with increased ratios of length, width, and area. In contrast, FJFZ shows a positive correlation only between the length and temperature, as well as between the width and precipitation, while the other dimensions exhibit negative correlations. In GXNN, the annual temperature negatively correlates with the length and area, positively correlates with the width, and the annual precipitation negatively correlates with the length, width, and area.

Author Contributions

Investigation, M.D., T.Z. and G.L.; analysis, M.D.; writing—original draft, M.D.; writing—review and editing, M.D., H.Z. and S.W.; data curation, T.Z., G.L., X.W. and K.G.; revising the manuscript, H.Z. and S.W.; supervision, C.W. and R.X. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research was funded by The National Natural Science Foundation of China (32160415, 31460169).

Informed Consent Statement

Not applicable.

Data Availability Statement

All of the data in this paper were downloaded from the publicly accessible websites cited in the main text. The species occurrence data are available on request from the corresponding author.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could affect the work reported here.

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Figure 1. (a) Sampling sites of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in China; (b) Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of Chinese Academy of Sciences (XSBN); (c) main sampling sites in Fujian: Fuzhou National Forest Park (FJFZ); Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (FAFU); (d) Main sampling sites in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region: Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area, Nanning (GXNN); (e) Main sampling sites in Guangdong: South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou (GDGZ).
Figure 1. (a) Sampling sites of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in China; (b) Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of Chinese Academy of Sciences (XSBN); (c) main sampling sites in Fujian: Fuzhou National Forest Park (FJFZ); Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (FAFU); (d) Main sampling sites in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region: Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area, Nanning (GXNN); (e) Main sampling sites in Guangdong: South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou (GDGZ).
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Figure 2. The picture on the left shows the plant parts sampled by the Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata-culm sheath (1: culm sheath ligule, culm sheath ligule is the joint between culm sheath and culm sheath blade, a membranous or leathery annular or ligulate structure. 2: culm sheath, culm sheaths are blade-like structures at the apex of culm sheaths, triangular in shape, thin in texture, and usually brown in color). The figure on the right shows the phytolith transport mechanism [20].
Figure 2. The picture on the left shows the plant parts sampled by the Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata-culm sheath (1: culm sheath ligule, culm sheath ligule is the joint between culm sheath and culm sheath blade, a membranous or leathery annular or ligulate structure. 2: culm sheath, culm sheaths are blade-like structures at the apex of culm sheaths, triangular in shape, thin in texture, and usually brown in color). The figure on the right shows the phytolith transport mechanism [20].
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Figure 3. Comparison of phytolith content of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in different geographic environments. XSBN: Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of Chinese Academy of Sciences, FAFU: Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, GZGD: South China National Botanical Garden, GXNN: Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area, Nanning, FJFZ: Fuzhou National Forest Park. Note: When the letters are different, it indicates a significant difference; when the letters are the same, there is no significant difference.
Figure 3. Comparison of phytolith content of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in different geographic environments. XSBN: Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of Chinese Academy of Sciences, FAFU: Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, GZGD: South China National Botanical Garden, GXNN: Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area, Nanning, FJFZ: Fuzhou National Forest Park. Note: When the letters are different, it indicates a significant difference; when the letters are the same, there is no significant difference.
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Figure 4. Distribution intervals of grain size of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in different geographical environments (μm); the 0–100 μm particle size range is divided according to the range of 0–10 μm, which represents the fine particle size, and the 100–1000 μm particle size range is divided according to 100 μm, which represents the coarse particle size.
Figure 4. Distribution intervals of grain size of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in different geographical environments (μm); the 0–100 μm particle size range is divided according to the range of 0–10 μm, which represents the fine particle size, and the 100–1000 μm particle size range is divided according to 100 μm, which represents the coarse particle size.
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Figure 5. Changes in the concentration of phytoliths in culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in different geographic environments. a, b, c, d, e indicate the order of phytolith concentration from high to low under different geographic growth environments.
Figure 5. Changes in the concentration of phytoliths in culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata in different geographic environments. a, b, c, d, e indicate the order of phytolith concentration from high to low under different geographic growth environments.
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Figure 6. Classification of the major phytolith morphology occurring in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata grown in different geographic environments. 1 Saddle; 2–6 Rondel; 2 Flattop Rondels; 3 Two-Spiked Rondels, 4 Three-Spiked Rondels, 5 Four-Spiked Rondels, 6 Five-Spiked Rondels, 7–9 Special Rondels; 10 Bilobate; 11 Silica stoma; 12 Saddle/Rondel; 13 Short acute; 14 Acute bulbosus; 15 Extended Acute; 16 Bracgiate; 17–20 Elongate; 17 Elongate entire; 18 Elongate bulbous; 19 Elongate dendritic; 20 Elongate dentate; 21 Scrobiculate; 10 μm indicates the scale. The figure only lists the common forms of phytoliths found in the Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata.
Figure 6. Classification of the major phytolith morphology occurring in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata grown in different geographic environments. 1 Saddle; 2–6 Rondel; 2 Flattop Rondels; 3 Two-Spiked Rondels, 4 Three-Spiked Rondels, 5 Four-Spiked Rondels, 6 Five-Spiked Rondels, 7–9 Special Rondels; 10 Bilobate; 11 Silica stoma; 12 Saddle/Rondel; 13 Short acute; 14 Acute bulbosus; 15 Extended Acute; 16 Bracgiate; 17–20 Elongate; 17 Elongate entire; 18 Elongate bulbous; 19 Elongate dendritic; 20 Elongate dentate; 21 Scrobiculate; 10 μm indicates the scale. The figure only lists the common forms of phytoliths found in the Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata.
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Figure 7. Specialized Rondel shape in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata. 1 Flattop Rondels; 2 Two-Spiked Rondels, 3 Three-Spiked Rondels, 4 Four-Spiked Rondels, 5 Five-Spiked Rondels, 6–15 Special Rondels.
Figure 7. Specialized Rondel shape in the culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata. 1 Flattop Rondels; 2 Two-Spiked Rondels, 3 Three-Spiked Rondels, 4 Four-Spiked Rondels, 5 Five-Spiked Rondels, 6–15 Special Rondels.
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Figure 8. Proportion of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata growing in different geographic environments with Rondel shape. Note: Different letters indicate significant differences, while the same letters represent no significant differences. There are significant differences between a and b, as well as between a and c. However, there is no significant difference between the combination ab.
Figure 8. Proportion of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata growing in different geographic environments with Rondel shape. Note: Different letters indicate significant differences, while the same letters represent no significant differences. There are significant differences between a and b, as well as between a and c. However, there is no significant difference between the combination ab.
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Figure 9. Correlation analysis of length, width, and area of phytolith with mean annual temperature and mean annual precipitation in various regions. 0–1 is a positive correlation, the yellow gradient indicator in the graph, 0–−0.8 is a negative correlation, the blue gradient indicator in the graph. The darker the color, the stronger the correlation. * Indicating significance, * the more significant it is, the higher the degree of significance.
Figure 9. Correlation analysis of length, width, and area of phytolith with mean annual temperature and mean annual precipitation in various regions. 0–1 is a positive correlation, the yellow gradient indicator in the graph, 0–−0.8 is a negative correlation, the blue gradient indicator in the graph. The darker the color, the stronger the correlation. * Indicating significance, * the more significant it is, the higher the degree of significance.
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Table 1. Morphology proportions of common phytoliths in culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata.
Table 1. Morphology proportions of common phytoliths in culm sheaths of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata.
Phytolith Morphology ProportionGXNN (Proportions%)FJFZ (Proportions%)FAFU (Proportions%)GZGD (Proportions%)XSBN (Proportions%)
Saddle10.32%13.10%7.72%25.68%15.41%
Flattop Rondels15.66%14.70%14.20%4.79%11.32%
Two-Spiked Rondels1.07%17.25%5.22%18.15%13.52%
Three-Spiked Rondels6.99%5.75%5.64%9.59%3.14%
Four-Spiked Rondels7.12%1.28%2.30%2.74%1.26%
Five-Spiked Rondels0.71%//2.05%/
Special Rondel3.56%2.88%9.19%19.86%3.77%
Bilobate2.49%////
Silica Stoma3.91%11.18%7.31%6.16%8.18%
Saddle/Rondel2.85%8.63%//0.94%
Short Acute6.41%6.71%2.09%2.05%/
Acute Bulbosus1.42%6.07%6.89%//
Extended Acute6.41%1.92%3.55%5.14%9.12%
Bracgiate9.61%0.64%///
Elongate Entire1.78% /2.05%/
Elongate Dentate1.78% //2.83%
Granulate Elongate2.14% //0.63%
Elongate Dendritic1.42% //5.97%
Elongate Bulbous0.36% 14.20%/12.58%
Uberculate//3.76%//
Scrobiculate13.52%9.90%17.95%1.71%11.32%
“/” Indicates that no such morphology occurs at the site.
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Duan, M.; Zhao, T.; Luo, G.; Wang, X.; Zhan, H.; Wang, S.; Gao, K.; Wang, C.; Xu, R. Analysis of Phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Grown in Different Geographic Environments. Forests 2025, 16, 975. https://doi.org/10.3390/f16060975

AMA Style

Duan M, Zhao T, Luo G, Wang X, Zhan H, Wang S, Gao K, Wang C, Xu R. Analysis of Phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Grown in Different Geographic Environments. Forests. 2025; 16(6):975. https://doi.org/10.3390/f16060975

Chicago/Turabian Style

Duan, Mengsi, Taiyang Zhao, Guomi Luo, Xiao Wang, Hui Zhan, Shuguang Wang, Kemei Gao, Changming Wang, and Rui Xu. 2025. "Analysis of Phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Grown in Different Geographic Environments" Forests 16, no. 6: 975. https://doi.org/10.3390/f16060975

APA Style

Duan, M., Zhao, T., Luo, G., Wang, X., Zhan, H., Wang, S., Gao, K., Wang, C., & Xu, R. (2025). Analysis of Phytolith of Bambusa vulgaris f.vittata Grown in Different Geographic Environments. Forests, 16(6), 975. https://doi.org/10.3390/f16060975

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