PDG-Arena's capability to simulate the evolutionary dynamics of functional traits positions it as a valuable tool for exploring the long-term adaptation of tree populations to changing environmental conditions in mixed forest stands. One approach could involve using the model to simulate various climate change scenarios, such as increased temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and elevated CO2 levels. By assessing how different species respond to these changes in terms of growth, reproduction, and competitive interactions, researchers could identify which species are likely to thrive or decline under future conditions.
Furthermore, the model could be employed to investigate the role of intraspecific diversity in enhancing resilience to environmental stressors. By simulating populations with varying levels of genetic diversity, researchers could evaluate how this diversity influences adaptive responses to changing conditions. This could provide insights into the importance of maintaining genetic variation within tree populations for long-term forest resilience.
Additionally, PDG-Arena could be used to explore the potential for phenotypic plasticity and evolutionary responses to selective pressures imposed by changing environments. By modeling the trade-offs associated with different functional traits (e.g., growth rate versus drought tolerance), the model could help predict how tree populations might evolve over time in response to environmental changes. This information could be crucial for informing conservation strategies and forest management practices aimed at promoting adaptive capacity in mixed forest ecosystems.