Ecophysiology of forest species in south-west romania in the context of climate change
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59463/np892e23Abstract
In the context of intensifying climate change, evaluating the ecophysiology of forest species becomes essential for understanding adaptation mechanisms and ecological resilience. This paper investigates the ecophysiological responses of five native forest species – black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), field maple (Acer campestre), sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), and ash (Fraxinus excelsior) – in two contrasting ecosystems: the "Porțile de Fier" Natural Park and the Pădurea Verde Forest in Timișoara, during the 2021–2024 period.The study was based on seasonal measurements of net photosynthesis and leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD values), correlated with local climate data (temperature, precipitation). The analyses highlighted significant differences between species and sites. Black locust and hornbeam exhibited superior capacity to maintain photosynthetic activity under water stress conditions, while ash and sycamore showed pronounced sensitivity, especially in years with precipitation deficits. In the Pădurea Verde Forest, the impact of thermo-hydric stress was more pronounced, suggesting a combined influence of climatic and anthropogenic pressures.The results support the importance of continuous monitoring of ecophysiological parameters in forest areas, providing relevant data for the implementation of adaptive management strategies aimed at maintaining ecosystem functionality in the face of future climate scenarios.
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