This new article examined tree rings to analyze their response to climate, such as extreme droughts and wet events, in Central Greece and Giona Mountain at three different altitudes. By analyzing the tree rings, the studies found that the average maximum temperature of the growing season and the maximum temperature of April, July and August had a positive correlation with growth, while evapotranspiration had an inverse correlation with growth. Furthermore, an apparent decline in tree ring growth, more severe in the higher altitude stands, was observed in recent years, suggesting that temperature is having a detrimental effect on fir growth in the area. The authors finally suggest that, in order to ensure successful and sustainable forest management in the Mediterranean region in the future, further research into tree rings and their relationship with climate and biotic factors should be undertaken.
Reference
Koulelis P.P., Petrakis P.V. Brief Overview of Greek Fir Radial Growth in Response to Climate and European Fir Budworm: Three Case Studies from Giona Mountain, Central Greece. Climate. 2023; 11(4):78. https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11040078
