Structure and dynamics of forests dominated by Sequoiadendron giganteum

摘要: Abstract The largest tree species, Sequoiadendron giganteum has a small native range restricted to California’s Sierra Nevada. Awe-inspiring stature contributed its protection from logging, but anthropogenic climate change—particularly hotter drought—and over century of fire suppression are possible threats. We measured 60 trees in seven forests improve allometric equations for the species and installed five 1-ha plots quantify biomass associated vegetation. Plots were re-measured after 5 yr compute increments examine effects management history as well impacts recent drought. Forests held up 2683 Mg ha−1 aboveground (1373 Mg C ha−1) had leaf area index (LAI) 14.5 with accounting bulk not LAI. Live other 10.6 LAI 6.1 Mg ha−1 yr−1, drought mortality three plots, where live declined by 6.2–10.3 Mg ha−1 yr−1. Two very little gained 5.5–7.9 Mg ha−1 yr−1. productivity was strongly correlated tree-level photosynthetic capacity, at height drought, relative growth—expressed ratio produced during driest wettest years—correlated positively site negatively both vertical distance water presumed competition neighboring trees. Prescribed one plot caused growth release whose lower trunks burnt Abies lowiana killed. Effects 21st on greater northern than southern locations lesser magnitude many past events. No recruitment observed. Planting can overcome species’ dependence regeneration, great potential carbon sequestration variety settings, including commercial forestry.