Tree diversity effects on soil-related ecosystem functions along a climate gradient

Global changes are strongly affecting forests and their biodiversity. The above- and belowground components of forest ecosystems influence each other and their interactions influence ecosystem functions. The question on how these interactions may change as a consequence of climate change is still unresolved. In this postdoc project, a unique large unexplored dataset of soil-related variables gathered in mature and young forest plots representing major European forest types from boreal to Mediterranean will be used to perform a synthesis, aiming at quantification of the effects of tree species diversity on soil-related ecosystem functions along a climatic gradient. The overall research hypothesis is that mixed forests show a larger resilience and a larger multifunctionality of soil-related ecosystem functions than monocultures. The results will contribute to a holistic, systems-based view on forest ecosystems functioning under climate change.