Climate change in progress: observations on the impacts of drought events on Tuscan forests

The empirical observation of the impacts drought and heat waves that occurred between 2017 2022 in several forest areas Tuscany allowed to describe various processes effects on trees shrubs. most severe were observed evergreen Mediterranean tall woodlands aged coppices (on holm oak trees), causing defoliation even mortality. In cases, attempts resprouting from dormant buds (from base tree trunk or crown), following events, not successful. Deciduous broad-leaved (beech, downy oak) suffered a strong summer defoliation, especially steep slopes with shallow soils south-facing aspect. These species generally able replenish foliage year. unfavorable conditions, however, we extensive attacks opportunistic parasites, such as fungi genus Biscogniauxia, which favored by ultimate cause Turkey showed mortality small groups individual trees. Heat also affected minor species, desiccation and, serious causes, death tree. Some meso-hygrophilous are restricted relict populations specific microclimatic sites within sub-Mediterranean habitats impacted, consequences biodiversity, regeneration, production fruits for wildlife. Increasing will trigger regressive dynamic lead many transformation forests into bushy forms scrub, scrublands sparse garrigues steppes. A more intense natural thinning coppice stands is occurring, due combined effect intra- inter-specific competition. implementation regional monitoring system recommended, based integration past existing experiences new initiatives, quantify dynamics, extent severity impacts. crucial point need adapt forestry, utilization woods, changed ecological conditions avoid increasing impact them.