Forest trees and shrubs play vital ecological roles, reducing the carbon
load from the atmosphere by using carbon dioxide in photosynthesis and
by the storage of carbon in biomass and wood as a source of energy.
Autoecology deals with all aspects of woody plants; the dynamism of
populations, physiological traits of trees, light requirements, life
history patterns, and physiological and morphological characters.
Ecophysiology is defined by various plant growth parameters such as leaf
traits, xylem water potential, plant height, basal diameter, and crown
architecture which are, in turn, influenced by physiological traits and
environmental conditions in the forest ecosystem. In short, this book
details research advances in various aspects of woody plants to help
forest scientists and foresters manage and protect forest trees and plan
their future research.
Autoecology and Ecophysiology of Woody Shrubs and Trees is intended to
be a guide for students of woody plant autoecology and ecophysiology, as
well as for researchers in this field. It is also an invaluable resource
for foresters to assist in effective management of forest resources.