Disentangling the climatic and biotic factors driving changes in the dynamics of Quercus suber populations across the species' latitudinal range

摘要: AIM: Impacts of different global change drivers are altering the performance plant species worldwide. However, these pressures usually differ across species' distribution range. To properly assess combined effect at level, we need to evaluate its consequences their complete distribution. We focused on recent decline in Cork oak (Quercus suber L.) populations given high ecological and economic relevance. LOCATION: selected 10 sites (and two per site) separated about one degree latitude core Q. suber, following a transcontinental aridity gradient. METHODS: current trends population dynamics factors implied decline, evaluated latitude, aridity, pathogens (Phytophthora cinnamomi), stand density tree size seed crop size, demographic structure, dominance recruitment bank, defoliation mortality. RESULTS: found an increase weight as decreased, with homogeneous low Demographic structure was determined by precipitation pathogen abundance. detected trend towards reduced sapling densities southern edge distribution, dominated old trees. The translates into loss respect other woody species, suggesting alteration community mid‐term future. Tree density, abundance mortality higher central‐latitude populations. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Our results allow early detection declining evaluation main risks for conservation, potential range displacement driven failure likely expansion northern