A new long-term study reveals alarming insights into the impact of climate change on the European beech (Fagus sylvatica), one of Europe’s most widespread and ecologically important tree species.
A new long-term study reveals alarming insights into the impact of climate change on the European beech (Fagus sylvatica), one of Europe’s most widespread and ecologically important tree species.
Conducted by an international team led from the University of Liverpool, the study uses four decades of monitoring data to identify a sharp 28% decline in tree growth since 2005, attributed to temperature-driven changes in seed production.
Published in the journal the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), the study highlights the complex interplay between rising temperatures, seed production and tree growth.
Lead author Dr Andrew Hacket-Pain, from the University of Liverpool’s Department of Geography & Planning, said: “Many studies have focused on how climate change will reduce tree growth in Europe by increasing the frequency and severity of summer droughts.
Read more at University of Liverpool
Photo Credit: Didgeman via Pixabay
