Radial Tree-Ring Traits Variation in Relation to Climate Factors

Dear Colleagues,

Tree radius growth occurs based on xylem increments on structures already formed, so that trees increase in size with age. Tree-rings, annually resolved radial xylem increments (growth footprints), are accurate measures of tree performance, forest production, and of their capacity to capture and store carbon. Thus, xylem traits are important variables involved in tree performance and forest function due to the physiological processes involved (CO₂ fixation and water transpiration) and the structural traits of the xylem in tree trunk growth.

Trees are necessarily highly plastic in their response to environmental factors, otherwise they would not attain such longevity. Understanding the effects of climate change on tree ring traits, tree growth and performance is an issue of paramount importance. In addition, because wood accomplishes different functions, conflicting demands on the xylem structure can appear under different environmental conditions. Under these circumstances, there are changes in the xylem traits, such as modifications in the cell morphology and chemical composition, changes in cellulose and lignin proportions, and changes in the proportion of cell types, that at the same time induce changes in higher level traits, e.g. xylem density and hydraulic conductivity.

In the last decades, tree-ring traits have been extensively analyzed to ascertain tree and forest responses to ongoing climate change, but a deeper knowledge on climate effects on trees of different age and size classes, at different temporal scales and across different climate regimes is needed. Stratified studies of this kind will be very helpful to better understand tree acclimation involving a one trait tradeoff or several traits, future responses of tree growth, mortality risks and forest function. Within this framework, the nature of the relationships between tree-ring traits at different stages of a tree’s life will shed light on the relevance of tree-ring traits for tree performance, and the relevance of tradeoffs among traits will be very helpful to unravel the potential effects of natural selection on surviving trees.

We encourage studies from all fields of dendroecology with or without ecophysiological research, including experimental studies, monitoring approaches (phenology, dendrometer records) and models to contribute to this Special Issue in order to promote knowledge and adaptation strategies for the preservation, management, and future development of forest ecosystems.

Prof. Dr. Emilia Gutiérrez
Guest Editor

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