Co-occurrence patterns of tree-related microhabitats: A method to simplify routine monitoring

A Tree-related Microhabitat (TreM) is a distinct, well-delineated morphological singularity occurring on living or standing dead trees, which constitutes crucial substrate life site for various species. TreMs are widely recognized as key features biodiversity. Current TreM typology identifies 47 types according to their morphology and associated taxa. In order provide range of resolutions make the more user-friendly, these have been pooled into 15 groups seven forms. Depending accuracy required time available, user can now choose describe at resolution levels corresponding type, group form. Another way easily record during routine management work would be use co-occurrence patterns reduce number observed required. Based large international database (2052 plots; 70,958 individual trees; 78 tree species), we evaluated both significance magnitude trees 11 groups. We highlighted 33 significant co-occurrences broadleaves nine conifers. Bark loss, rot hole, crack polypore had highest positive (N = 8) with other broadleaves; bark loss 4) found mutually exclusive occurrences only conifers: Exposed Heartwood excluded dendrotelm sap run. Among four variables tested contribution co-occurrences, diameter breast height was most consistent. our results practical considerations, selected three broadleaves, conifers, formed useful short lists assess forest in field. addition, detecting potential similarities associations between has theoretical value, e.g. it may help researchers identify common factors favouring formation managers select multiple candidates retention.