The Rapid Expansion of Populus tremuloides Due to Anthropogenic Disturbances in Eastern Canada

Authors

Mathilde Marchais, University of Quebec at Abitibi-TémiscamingueFollow
Dominique Arseneault, University of Quebec at Rimouski
Yves Bergeron, University of Quebec at Montreal

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

Canadian Journal of Forest Research

Volume

52

Issue

7

Publisher

Canadian Science Publishing

First Page

991

Last Page

1001

Publication Date

7-29-2022

Abstract

In the context of global changes, the future dynamics of trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) are uncertain in the middle of its range. An increase in climate-related mortality could occur, but the modification of disturbance regimes could also favor its expansion. In this study, we document trembling aspen dynamics over 40 years at the scale of a boreal forest landscape (10 930 km²), as well as the role of disturbances in these dynamics. The results indicate that trembling aspen has experienced a substantial expansion over the last four decades (+102% occurrence), particularly between 1987 and 1997 (+70.9% occurrence). Nevertheless, these dynamics vary both spatially and temporally, with for example a phase of weak decline since 1997 (−5.9% occurrence). Anthropogenic disturbances, particularly clear-cutting, have played a major role in the expansion of trembling aspen. This expansion could influence the response of ecosystems to climate change, by modifying both fire and insect outbreak activities.

Recommended Citation

Marchais, M., D. Arseneault, and Y. Bergeron. 2022. The rapid expansion of Populus tremuloides due to anthropogenic disturbances in eastern Canada. Canadian Journal of Forest Research 52:1-11.