Root Growth Dynamics and Structure in Seedlings of Four Shade Tolerant Mediterranean Species Grown under Moderate and Low Light

Specific functional traits such as shade tolerance or leaf habits can enhance root growth dynamics and structure of planted seedlings in the understory forests. We assessed how low moderate light levels (17 33% full sunlight, mimicking after-thinning stocking) affect four late successional trees, three deciduous (Acer monspessulanum L., Quercus pyrenaica Willd Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz) one evergreen (Quercus ilex L.) species. Rooting depth, were mainly explained by species differences. Roots trees elongated faster deeper larger than roots Q. ilex. Among S. had lowest growth. area nutrient concentration positively related to growth, highlighting importance plant economic spectrum, determinants Moderate level slightly enhanced decreased specific (SLA). Species differences water potential under drought rooting evidencing its role overcoming stress during seedling establishment. These findings guide selection successional, tolerant tree for underplanting thinned Mediterranean plantations provide insights into their ecology.