Tree-related microhabitats (TreMs) as key elements for forest biodiversity
Les microhabitats des arbres, éléments clés de la biodiversité forestière
Résumé
TreMs, i.e. morphological singularities borne by trees, act as crucial ecological items in forest ecosystems. As “ephemeral resource patches”, i.e. high quality but also spatially- and time-limited resources, TreMs host a wide range of taxa. TReMs participate in a functional habitat network in species life cycles (shelter, foraging site, mating or breeding site). Changes in TreM profile strongly influence biotic communities at the stand level. Two research perspectives regarding spatial patterns and modelling are highlighted.