Congruent patterns of functional diversity in saproxylic beetles and fungi across European beech forests

European beech forests, unique temperate ecosystems shaped by post-glacial recolonization and human activity, exhibit congruent patterns of functional diversity in saproxylic beetles and fungi. This diversity decreases from south to north, with higher elevation and temperature, while increasing with precipitation. Structural equation modeling revealed that local functional diversity is driven by regional species pool dynamics, influenced by anthropogenic and biogeographical processes. To preserve these biodiversity hotspots, conservation efforts should target a broad spatial and climatic range across Europe, including primeval forests recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Hagge, J., Abrego, N., Bässler, C., Bouget, C., Brin, A., Brustel, H., Christensen, M., Gossner, M. M., Heilmann‐Clausen, J., Horák, J., Gruppe, A., Isacsson, G., Köhler, F., Lachat, T., Larrieu, L., Schlaghamersky, J., Thorn, S., Zapponi, L., & Müller, J. (2019). Congruent patterns of functional diversity in saproxylic beetles and fungi across European beech forests. Journal of Biogeography, 46(5), 1054–1065. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/jbi.13556