An Overview of the functioning of Temperate Forest Ecosystems with Particular Reference to Himalayan Temperate Forest

Abstract

Plant functional traits (PETs) are an important indicator of structure and function of forest ecosystem. However, the succinct accounting of the linkages across the various forest types are lacking across the literature. Therefore, the objective of the study was to synthesize current knowledge about and ecosystem function and services along with their linkages to PFTs in temperate forest ecosystem. A systematic literature review with appropriate keywords and suitable inclusion and exclusion criterion was applied for generating of the information in accordance to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Forty-eight studies (31 on functional traits and 17 on linkages of PFT with various ecosystem services) reveals that aboveground biomass and wood productivity was associated with leaf morphological, chemical and stem traits, however, only a few studies dealt with leaf physiological, stoichiometry, regenerative and root traits. Litter decomposition was mostly associated with leaf chemical and morphological traits followed by leaf physiological and stoichiometry traits; however, evaluations between PFTs and ecosystem services (ESs) were categorically not accounted the association with stem, root and regenerative traits in temperate forests. Leaf morphological, chemical, stoichiometry and stem traits were important predictors of ecosystem process and functioning and facilitate for the measurements of ecosystem services. However, limited and skewed studies suggest more focus researches on physiological, regenerative and root traits in temperate forest for assessing the unexplored services. The state of the science information of temperate forest ecosystem services with traits relationship is useful for forest planning, management and maintaining multi-functionality and services of temperate forest besides identifies future priorities for forest sustainability.