Structure, Function, and Dynamics of Tropical Floodplain Forests

Dear Colleagues, 

Tropical floodplain forests is an encompassing term that describes a variety of unique habitats worldwide, united by their existence at the dynamic interface between terrestrial and aquatic systems. Complex spatial and temporal relationships with the flood regimes of river and lake systems drive the lateral exchange of water and nutrients to surrounding forests in time with a seasonal ‘flood pulse’. The resulting variations and fluctuations in environmental conditions across floodplain forests are reflected in the adaptations of plant and animal communities, which in turn yield ecological interactions and processes that can differ markedly in character from other tropical forests. Such conditions are often challenging for researchers too, contributing to the relative lack of understanding about these key systems across multiple scientific disciplines. Tropical floodplain forests are amongst the habitats most criticial for the ecosystem services upon which human populations depend and yet are also some of the most severly pressured by human activities. 

This Special Issue aims to take a broad perspective on the structural and functional dynamics of these understudied forests. Articles are welcome that explore links between areas such as hydrology and geomorphology with patterns and processes in plant and animal communities, as well as with resulting ecosystem services, including carbon storage and the potential effects of anthropogenic threats and conservation practices. 

Dr. Joseph Hawes
Prof. Dr. Torbjørn Haugaasen
Guest Editors

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