Dieback intensity but not functional and taxonomic diversity indices predict forest productivity in different management conditions: Evidence from a semi-arid oak forest ecosystem

The relationships between different aspects of diversity (taxonomic, structural and functional) the aboveground biomass (AGB) as a major component global carbon balance have been studied extensively but rarely under simultaneous influence forest dieback management. In this study, we investigate taxonomic, functional woody species (trees shrubs) AGB along gradient intensity (low, moderate, high no control) two contrasted management conditions (protection by central government vs. traditional natives) in semi-arid oak Quercus brantii Lindl.) ecosystem. was estimated taxonomic diversity, community weighted average (CWM) divergence indices were produced. We found that aerial significantly higher intensively used area (14.57 (±1.60) t/hm2) than protected (8.70 (±1.05) due to persistence some large trees with decreasing values both areas. CWM height (H), leaf nitrogen content (LNC) dry matter (LDMC) also managed area. contrast, area, inter-specific competition more intense, explaining reduced H, LDMC. Contrary results CWM, none traits (FDvar) affected only FDvar LNC, phosphorus (LPC) LDMC influenced positive linear These emphasize gradient, are efficient predictors estimating forests, while provide better forests human pressure. Finally, identity dominant (i.e., Brant’s oak) proves be main driver AGB, supporting selection effect hypothesis.