A possible role of leaf vascular network in heat dissipation in Vitis vinifera L.

Recent studies showed how the density of leaf vascular system can be involved in the performance of physiological parameters. Major veins are commonly elevated in the lower epidermis of the leaf, and this anatomical feature could play a subsidiary role in increasing heat dispersion in the surrounding environment and may help dissipate excess light energy in the leaves. The aim of this study is to analyse the role of the leaf vein network in the heat dissipation process in Vitis vinifera (L.). Major leaf veins were insulated with liquid paraffin and analysed using thermal imaging. A significantly higher temperature was found on the leaf tissues with insulated veins compared to untreated leaves. Further studies are required to assess the real contribution of the leaf vascular network in thermal dissipation.