Assessing the nutritional and climatic response of temperate tree species in the Vosges Mountains

Abstract

Tree species distribution according to climatic gradients is often analysed through geographic information systems modelling whereas their nutrient requirements is mainly studied by experimentation. Using 325 forest plots, this study analysed the response of frequent tree species in the Vosges mountains, a siliceous area in northeast France, along both climate and nutrient gradients. Besides a better understanding of species behaviour, our aim was to investigate if indicator plants can be used to accurately estimate species response to ecological factors. Results showed a main effect of climate on Abies alba and Quercus petraea with a transition between both species around - 20 mm of June water balance. They also showed a combined effect of climate, base saturation and nitrogen nutrition on Acer pseudoplatanus, Carpinus betulus, Fraxinus excelsior and Pinus sylvestris distribution. Nutritional and climatic variables estimated by Ellenberg indicator values or those established with the phytoecological database EcoPlant are almost as efficient as measured variables to assess tree species ecological response.