Spatiotemporal patterns of microclimatic buffering in relict alpine communities

• DOI: 10.1111/jvs.13242
• Publication Date: 2024-03-11T03:50:27Z
• Authors: Borja Jiménez‐Alfaro; Eduardo Fernández...; Clara Espinosa De...; Corrado Marcenò
• Keywords: Microclimate; Alpine climate; Local extinction; Extinction (optical mineralogy); Variation (astronomy)

Abstract Questions In alpine landscapes, topography creates a mosaic of microclimatic niches that might prevent local extinctions, but the influence this spatial heterogeneity on plant communities is largely unknown. Here we ask (1) how soil variation comparable at temporal and scales, (2) such influences species composition extinctions in relict communities. Location Picos de Europa National Park, northern Spain. Methods We resurveyed permanent plots four sites following recording temperatures (temporal survey) for 10 years. then sampled 80 around (spatial survey). evaluated six indices between surveys, calculated trends observed cover. finally predicted extinction rates under scenarios based microclimate–community relations. Results Despite high interannual variation, found 10‐year trend temperature warming (microridge) fellfields (microvalley) snowbeds. Microclimatic was larger space than time, with little snowbeds extreme low recorded fellfields. Species mainly influenced by growing degree days (GDD) freezing (FDD), which were both related to snow cover duration. Plant 16 (out 36 frequent species) showed significant responses variation. Local relatively hotter more conditions. Conclusions Our results support idea can reduce negative climate change However, continuous reduction will result tipping point beyond buffer effect not be effective protected microsites, leading community homogenization. This process may have started where from snowy microclimates are being outcompeted adapted below‐zero winter temperatures.