Threats on the Mediterranean forest landscapes by the end of the 21st century

Annick Douguédroit (1) , Michel Vennetier (2)

1 ESPACE - Études des Structures, des Processus d’Adaptation et des Changements de l’Espace
2 RECOVER - Risques, Ecosystèmes, Vulnérabilité, Environnement, Résilience

During climate change in the 21st century tree species may not be able to follow the fast shift of their potential distribution area caused by higher temperatures and rainfall decrease. Examples of early warning signs of the deep impact of climate change on mediterranean landscapes are presented. During the 21st century forests stands should be concerned by sharp productivity drop, extensive dieback and likely more numerous wildfires leaving mattorals and steppes gaining ground.

Keywords: Mediterranean landscapes; Climate change influence; Forest productivity drop; Wildfires influence; Forest surface drop

Domains: Environmental Sciences

Annick Douguédroit, Michel Vennetier. Threats on the Mediterranean forest landscapes by the end of the 21st century. Connections, Mobilities, Urban Prospects and Environmental Threats: the Mediterranean in transition, Cambridge Scholars 2015, 1-4438-7246-1. ⟨hal-01421904⟩