Relating modelled habitat suitability for Abies balsamea to on-the-ground species structural characteristics in naturally growing forests

摘要: Abstract Modelling tree habitat suitability (HS) is a common practice to assess species distribution across broad range of spatial scales. However, it seldom used test the extent that modelled HS-scores (probability occurrence) can represent on-the-ground measures species-structural characteristics. In this study, we compare four parametric and non-parametric models generated with R-package, sdm, potential for these estimate balsam fir [Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.] in naturally-growing forests an extensive landscape. Central development are inventory plot data presence-absence abiotic factors linked plant growth distribution. The study’s include: (1) photosynthetically active radiation; (2) growing degree-days; (3) relative extractable soil water content; (4) near-surface wind speed, all expressed spatially at 30-m resolution. To gauge whether HS explain structural characteristics fir-dominated stands, field-based estimates site index (SI) cumulative aboveground biomass (ABG) were compared against independently-derived HS-scores. results showed that: (i) random forest was most successful representing among methods considered; (ii) overall conditions observed be favourable on north-facing slopes, particularly northwest part target landscape, where air temperatures cooler, soils moderately wetter, speeds lower; (iii) tree-based calculations SI partially characterised by patterns HS-scores, due scale differences (i.e., from individual grid cells) inadequate number sample trees; (iv) AGB more accurately represented HS. Modelled as indicators preference, AGB, distribution, offer key ecological information essential inform management conservation planning landscape level.