Biogeography of fire regimes in western U.S. conifer forests: A trait‐based approach

• DOI: 10.1111/geb.13079
• Publication Date: 2020-03-05T17:05:21Z
• Authors: Jens T. Stevens; Matthew M. Kling; Dylan W. Schwilk; J. Morgan Varner; Jeffrey M. Kane
• Keywords: Fire regime; Trait

Abstract Aim Functional traits are a crucial link between species distributions and the ecosystem processes that structure those species’ niches. Concurrent increases in availability of functional trait data our ability to model present an opportunity develop biogeography (i.e., mapping across space). can improve process‐based predictions about resistance certain assemblages changing environmental conditions landscape scales. We illustrate this concept by developing first trait‐based, quantitative ranking fire (adult tree survival) North American conifer space. Location time period Western continental USA, day. Major taxa studied Twenty‐nine common species. Methods compiled six for each species: three relating morphology litter flammability. combined these into single score used community‐weighted averaging estimate scores different forest communities, using interpolated distribution relative abundance data. Results Species associated historically with frequent have high (e.g., Pinus ponderosa ), reflected thick bark, tall crowns flammable litter. subalpine or arid low Picea engelmannii edulis thin short stature, poor self‐pruning A map community western USA reveals agreement independent assessments historical regimes, while also identifying areas where community‐wide might be mismatched regimes. Main conclusions Quantifying confer tree‐killing provides direct disturbance resistance. Understanding is evaluation long‐term resilience types under dynamic Our work represents known spatial representation at regional scale and, as such, relevant critical process.