The significance of european beech in central europe in the period of climate change: an overview of current knowledge

In the period of ongoing global climate change, ecosystems, including Central European forests, face significant challenges such as summer droughts and heat waves, which increase the climate risks also for the European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), an important and dominant broadleaved tree species in this region. This article provides a comprehensive review of current knowledge on the adaptation strategies of European beech in response to changing climatic conditions, highlighting its ecological demands, development of taxonomy, ecological and economic importance and exploring its resilience, growth characteristics, and challenges such as water regime, pests, diseases, and the impact of climate change. A key finding is that despite the various stressors affecting European beech, adaptive management and the use of mixed forest stands can significantly contribute to its conservation and sustainable use. The importance of integrating the genetic diversity and adaptive capacity of European beech into forestry practices is emphasised. The review of 203 studies highlights the need for further research focused on understanding the interactions between European beech and a changing climate in order to develop more effective strategies for its conservation and sustainable management in the future.