Linking wood density records of common beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) with temperature and precipitation variability from a temperate lowland site.

European lowland beech stands are under pressure by current climate change and increased drought spells. Climate sensitivity of trees is most commonly studied examining tree-ring width records wood density-based time series, yet the potential latter underexplored for hardwoods (Fagus sylvatica L.) in particular. Here, we investigate how variability radial growth, Maximum Latewood Density (MXD) intra-annual density related to monthly daily temperature (T) precipitation (P) records, as well Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), during past 50 years. 45 increment cores were collected from healthy (co-) dominant Flanders (northern Belgium). We used X-ray micro-Computed Tomography (XµCT) obtain series. By dividing every into 4 sectors equal width, also assessed climatic forcings on (meanQi, i = 1:4). Water availability (SPEI) important factor limiting whereas MXD correlated with summer (period May-July, r 0.334). Scanning resolution (110, 60, 20 µm) proves be an parameter when interpreting values. found that quantify signals at end growing season, values should representative a relatively large part latewood. Our results suggest sector approach useful showing influences entire season. Wood beginning season mainly influenced water (meanQ1∼SPEI, 0.416), towards only significant correlations observed (meanQ4∼T, 0.347). recommend further explore hardwood Europe.