Changing forest dynamics: plot-based evidence

Abstract

We evaluate the plot-based evidence for changing forest dynamics, focussing on changes within pristine 'ol-growth' forests. First, we discuss aboveground changes, many of which have been observed using long-term plots. Second, we focus on belowground shifts, primarily using short-term experimental plots. Finally, we summarise the evidence by which the drivers of the observed changes in forest dynamics can be identified and suggest which possible changes in forest dynamics may be expected in the future.