How do distinct facets of tree diversity and community assembly respond to environmental variables in the subtropical Atlantic Forest?

ABSTRACT: This study assessed the impact of altitude, precipitation, and soil conditions on species richness (SR), phylogenetic diversity (PD), and functional diversity (FD) standardized effect sizes in subtropical Brazilian Atlantic Forest tree communities. We considered specific trait information (FDs) for FD, reflecting recent adaptive evolution, contrasting with deeper phylogenetic constraints in FD. Three functional traits (leaf area-LA, wood density-WD, and seed mass-SM) were examined for their response to these gradients. Generalized least squares models with environmental variables as predictors and diversity metrics as response variables were used, and a fourth-corner correlation test explored trait-environmental relationships. SR decreased with altitude, while PD increased, indicating nich

SUBMITTER: Klipel J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10350641 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature