Publication Details

Category Text Publication
Reference Category Journals
DOI 10.1088/1748-9326/ade8ff
Licence creative commons licence
Title (Primary) Sub-seasonal forest carbon dynamics lose persistence under extremes
Author Williams, T.K.E.; Moreno Martínez, A.; Martinuzzi, F.; Mahecha, M.D.; Camps-Valls, G.
Source Titel Environmental Research Letters
Year 2025
Department RS
Volume 20
Issue 8
Page From art. 084052
Language englisch
Topic T5 Future Landscapes
Data and Software links https://doi.org/10.18160/2G60-ZHAK
Keywords persistence; vegetation; extreme events
Abstract Extreme weather events pose a growing threat to the stability of terrestrial ecosystems, and understanding how ecosystems respond remains a critical challenge. This study explores how extreme weather conditions affect the persistence of net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of CO2 in forest ecosystems. Using Detrended Fluctuation Analysis, we quantify persistence and assess changes in carbon flux stability under stress. By analysing high-frequency carbon flux data across multiple European sites, we reveal that ecosystem persistence is tightly linked to hydrological conditions, particularly soil moisture. Moreover, we show that large drops in persistence can signal periods of ecosystem stress. Our findings show that drought–heat compound events can diminish resilience and prolong recovery times, with temperate and boreal forests lacking heat or drought adaptations emerging as especially vulnerable. Furthermore, these stress pulses alter carbon dynamics long after the event, suggesting physiological damage that heightens sensitivity to future weather fluctuations. Overall, identifying changes in persistence could signal potential ecological destabilisation, providing key insights into how terrestrial ecosystems might cope with intensifying climate extremes.
Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=31068
Williams, T.K.E., Moreno Martínez, A., Martinuzzi, F., Mahecha, M.D., Camps-Valls, G. (2025):
Sub-seasonal forest carbon dynamics lose persistence under extremes
Environ. Res. Lett. 20 (8), art. 084052 10.1088/1748-9326/ade8ff