Table 1 An overview of the ten traits and their ecological significance considered in this study
From: Effect of climate on traits of dominant and rare tree species in the world’s forests
Trait | Ecological significance | References |
|---|---|---|
Tree height | Taller trees intercept more light and their stature facilitates seed dispersal, which trade-offs against the increase in construction and maintenance costs and risk of breakage. | |
Rooting depth | Deeper roots enhance water uptake and tree stability, but also increases maintenance cost. | |
Specific leaf area (SLA) | A high SLA results in a short leaf lifespan and high carbon gain, and a low SLA is related to a long leaf lifespan and efficient nutrient conservation. | |
Stem conduit diameter | A wider stem conduit diameter results in more efficient water transportation, which increases plant productivity but also the risk of embolism. | |
Crown diameter | A larger crown diameter is related to a higher photosynthetic capacity, as more leaves are sun-exposed, but also increases the risk of branch damage. | |
Wood density | A higher wood density relates to better mechanical support, water transport and storage capacity of woody tissues, and is associated with slower growing species due to the energy investment. | |
Bark thickness | A thicker bark is related to water storage and fire protection, but results in a stiffer stem, which makes it more prone to stem breakage. | |
Leaf nitrogen | Leaf nitrogen reflects a trade-off between the benefits of a high photosynthetic potential with high nitrogen and the costs of acquiring nitrogen and suffering herbivory. | |
Leaf N/P ratio | A low N/P ratio indicate a high biomass production and a quick return on investments of carbon and nutrients, while a high N/P ratio promotes stress tolerance. | |
Seed mass | A higher seed mass results in a higher chance of seedling survival and at the same time a lower number of seeds produced and therefore a lower colonisation ability. |
