From cambium to woodland: analyzing Juniperus thurifera L. response to environmental constraints at multiple scales

Abstract

Olano, J.M., Rozas, V. 2015. From cambium to woodland: analyzing Juniperus thurifera L. response to environmental constraints at multiple scales. Ecosistemas 24(2): 60-68. Doi.: 10.7818/ECOS.2015.24-2.09.

Juniperus thurifera L. (Cupressaceae) is a dioecious tree inhabiting the Western Mediterranean Basin in areas under Mediterranean continental climate. Spain (95.1%) and Morocco (4.8%) host the largest populations. Diverse dendroecological research developed during the last years has improved our knowledge about this species functioning and its forest dynamics. This review approaches the advances produced on several topics including xylogenesis, climate forcing of secondary growth and xylem anatomy, regional variability on climate control, water-use efficiency, non-structural carbohydrates dynamics and present and future dynamics of its Iberian forests. A special point is paid on sex-related differences between male and female junipers, including non-structural carbohydrate accumulation patterns, secondary growth and response to summer drought, the main climatic factor limiting growth. This review aims to synthesize the available knowledge about this species at multiple spatio-temporal scales, being particularly useful for researchers and managers interested in the investigation, management and conservation of Iberian Juniperus thurifera woodlands.