Early emergence increases survival of tree seedlings in Central European temperate forests despite severe late frost

Ecology and Evolution

Harald Bugmann¹  Christof Bigler¹  Eva Bianchi¹ 

[1] Forest Ecology, Department of Environmental Systems Science, Institute of Terrestrial Ecosystems ETH Zurich Zurich Switzerland;

关键词: Acer;    Fagus;    frost;    mortality;    seed germination;    seedling emergence;   

DOI  :  10.1002/ece3.5399

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Global warming is expected to result in earlier emergence of tree seedlings that may experience higher damages and mortality due to late frost in spring. We monitored emergence, characteristics, and survival of seedlings across ten tree species in temperate mixed deciduous forests of Central Europe over one and a half year. We tested whether the timing of emergence represents a trade‐off for seedling survival between minimizing frost risk and maximizing the length of the growing period. Almost two‐thirds of the seedlings died during the first growing period. The timing of emergence was decisive for seedling survival. Although seedlings that emerged early faced a severe late frost event, they benefited from a longer growing period resulting in increased overall survival. Larger seedling height and higher number of leaves positively influenced survival. Seedlings growing on moss had higher survival compared to mineral soil, litter, or herbaceous vegetation. Synthesis. Our findings demonstrate the importance of emergence time for survival of tree seedlings, with early‐emerging seedlings more likely surviving the first growing period.

【 授权许可】

Unknown