European Journal of Forest Research 145, article number 80, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10342-026-01919-0
Involved members of MultiTroph: Matteo Dadda, Simon Thorn, Arong Luo, Xianglu Deng, Xiaojuan Liu, Heike Feldhaar
Summary: The researchers examined how tree species richness influences deadwood dynamics in BEF-China. They found that forests with higher tree diversity produced more fine woody debris and showed more consistent deadwood accumulation. However, stand productivity was a stronger predictor of deadwood accumulation than species richness alone, while decomposition was mainly driven by canopy closure rather than tree diversity.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that both tree diversity and productivity contribute to the development of deadwood, supporting carbon storage and biodiversity. Planting diverse forests that include productive species may therefore enhance forest restoration and ecosystem resilience.