Effect of tree species diversity on species growth rate in the Saskatchewan boreal forest

Abstract

Diverse ecosystems are crucial to combating climate change. This study aims to examine the impacts of tree species diversity on growth rate of seven boreal tree species. Data from permanent sample plots located in the boreal plains ecozone of Saskatchewan will be used. Species in these plots include white spruce (Picea glauca), black spruce (Picea mariana), balsam fir (Abies balsamea), trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides), white birch (Betula papyrifera), balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana). Jack pine was the only species to have growth rates respond positively to species diversity, with black spruce and balsam fir being negatively impacted by diversity. Trembling aspen, white birch, balsam poplar and white spruce showed no significant growth response to diversity. These findings highlight the importance of considering species specific growth responses to diversity when managing boreal forest stands.