Publications by authors named "M M Alexiades"
We describe the geographical variation in tree species composition across Amazonian forests and show how environmental conditions are associated with species turnover. Our analyses are based on 2023 forest inventory plots (1 ha) that provide abundance data for a total of 5188 tree species. Within-plot species composition reflected both local environmental conditions (especially soil nutrients and hydrology) and geographical regions.
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- Amazonia's floodplain system is the largest and most biodiverse, but our understanding of its forest species and their unique roles is still limited, especially as changing flood patterns impact these communities.
- About one-sixth of the tree diversity in Amazonia is specifically adapted to live in floodplain environments, indicating a significant ecological specialization within these forests.
- The study emphasizes that the unique composition of floodplain forests is influenced by regional flooding patterns, highlighting the necessity of maintaining overall hydrological health to ensure the survival of Amazon's tree diversity and its essential ecosystem functions.