Sensitivity of European beech trees to air pollution and meteorological extremes in Lithuania

Abstract

European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) is one of the most widespread and thoroughly investigated European tree species. Despite this, a limited number of studies have examined mature beech tree growth outside their natural distribution range in relation to meteorological parameters and air pollution. The present study aimed to detect sensitivity of beech tree growth not only to meteorological conditions but also one of the most phytotoxic pollutants – surface ozone in Lithuania by using dendrochronological method. Data set since 1980 of surface ozone was available from Preila EMEP station, and enables to analyze integrated effect meteorology and surface ozone on beech growth variation over the last 30 year period. The obtained results revealed that hot summers, dry and cold dormant and first half of vegetation periods resulted in beech tree growth reduction. However, due to climate changes warmer dormant periods and rather stable temperatures of summers should increase the tolerance of beech trees to unfavorable lack of humidity in the first half of vegetation. Surface ozone having negative effect on beech tree growth due to stabilization in its concentration should not decrease beech tree stem increment. If changes in the considered parameters continue following the last 10 year period scenarios, the intensity of Beech tree growth in Lithuania should increase.