Carbon Release from Tropical Montane Forest Trees

Extending over a large altitudinal range, changes in structure and functionality of tropical mountain forests (TMFs) are mainly driven by increasing cloud frequencies and high atmospheric humidity with increasing elevation. One of the most marked changes towards higher altitudes is the shift in C allocation from above- to belowground plant organs leading to a considerable decline in average tree height. The present dissertation focuses on the accompanying changes in the C release from stems and coarse woody roots along a montane forest transect in the Andes in Ecuador. Data provide insight into important respiration-productivity relationships of a little studied tropical vegetation type. Stand- level extrapolations along the transect are embedded in first complete C balances for tropical montane forests. This comprehensive study is a valuable tool for ecosystem ecologists and modelers.