Bioclimatic limits and range shifts of cold-hardy evergreen broad-leaved species at their northern distributional limit in Europe

authored by

Silje Berger, Gunnar Söhlke, Gian Reto Walther, Richard Pott

Abstract

The few native evergreen broad-leaved species occurring in central Europe have attracted the interest of generations of scientists; thus, the factors limiting their northern distribution have been well studied. For investigation of climate change-driven range shifts, these climate-sensitive species are particularly well suited. We here analyse recent range shifts of some of the cold-hardiest evergreen broad-leaved species, including both native and introduced species in Europe. Based on updated field data and outputs from bioclimatic models, we show that the milder winter conditions of the last few decades are consistent with the northward expansion of potential ranges and an increase in the number of evergreen broad-leaved species. At the landscape scale, these species indicate a considerable change in composition and structure of temperate deciduous forests in various parts of Europe.

Organisation(s)

Institute of Geobotany

External Organisation(s)

University of Bayreuth

Type

Article

Journal

PHYTOCOENOLOGIA

Volume

37

Pages

523-539

No. of pages

17

ISSN

0340-269X

Publication date

01.12.2007

Publication status

Published

Peer reviewed

Yes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Plant Science

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 13 - Climate Action

Electronic version(s)

https://doi.org/10.1127/0340-269X/2007/0037-0523 (Access: Closed)