The Impact of Tree Diversity on Forest Growth Formula
It not only depends on the number of trees we plant, but also on their diversity. A study revealed that the variety of species is a decisive driver of growth in humid climates. This opens up a new path for intelligent reforestation and sustainable ecosystem management.
An unprecedented global experiment
Alongside more than 30 institutions, the study analyzed 15 forest experiments on different continents. In total, 130 species and nearly 100,000 trees were studied. Unlike other approaches, it focused on not just the number of trees, but the “neighborhood” of each specimen and how it interacted with its immediate neighbors.
This approach allowed the researchers to identify large-scale invisible patterns and understand how diversity influences individual productivity.
Diversity thriving in humidity
The result was clear: diversity enhances growth, especially in humid areas like tropical rainforests and temperate forests. In dry regions, the effect was much weaker. This finding confirms that it is not enough to plant a large number of trees, but the key is to mix complementary species in suitable environments.
In this way, diversity becomes a true productivity driver under average climatic conditions, which are the most common in many ecosystems.
The role of functional traits
Functional traits such as crown size, wood density, or root depth determine how species share light, water, and nutrients. A broad-crowned tree can thrive alongside one with small leaves, while different roots can better utilize soil resources.
This explains why diversity can translate into more efficient and sustainable growth.
