This research proposes to study the biodiversity – ecosystem functioning (BEF) relationships in an experimental tree plantation that combines gradients of species richness and functional diversity, as well as varying environmental conditions. It will focus on quantifying underlying mechanisms of diversity effects on ecosystem functions, focusing on interactions within and across trophic levels. Ultimately, this research may contribute in answering the question: How should we manage our natural capital in a sustainable way? The Freiburg plantation will join the International Diversity Experiment Network with Trees (IDENT), which includes several implemented and planned sites in North America and Europe. It will also be part of TreeDivNet, a larger network of diversity experiments with trees. IDENT uses a plot-based, replicated, and stratified random design of high-density tree plots established according to two gradients: i) species richness (SR: 1, 2, 6, 12 species), and ii) functional diversity (FD: species combinations of varying FD within each SR level). It thus allows separating experimentally the effects of FD and SR on ecosystem functioning, and testing for underlying mechanisms such as complementarity and selection effects. At the Freiburg site, the design will also be replicated to add a fertilization treatment, for assessing how environmental conditions affect BEF relationships. Expected schedule: July 2013: preparation of the study area. October 2013: Planting of the seedlings (location: Freiburg Airport).
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