Tracking climate vulnerability across spatial distribution and functional traits in Magnolia gentryi in the Peruvian tropical montane cloud forest

Abstract

AbstractPremiseUnderstanding the responses of functional traits in tree species to climate variability is essential for predicting the future of tropical montane cloud forest (TMCF) tree species, especially in Andean montane environments where fog pockets act as moisture traps.MethodsWe studied the distribution of Magnolia gentryi, measured its spatial arrangement, identified local hotspots, and evaluated the extent to which climate‐related factors are associated with its distribution. We then analyzed the variation in 13 functional traits of M. gentryi and the relationship with climate.ResultsAndean TMCF climatic factors constrain M. gentryi spatial distribution with significant patches or gaps that are associated with high precipitation and mean minimum temperature. The functional traits of M. gentryi are limited by the Andean TMCF climatic factors, resulting in reduced within‐species variation in traits associated with water deficit.ConclusionsThe association between functional traits and climate oscillation is crucial for understanding the growth conditions of relict‐endemic species and is essential for conservation efforts. Forest trait diversity and species composition change because of fluctuations in hydraulic safety‐efficiency gradients.