Abstract ID: 3.12512 | Accepted as Poster | Poster | TBA | TBA

It is widely acknowledged that treeline, the ecotone delineating the transition between closed forests and tree-less vegetation, serves as a key indicator of the impacts of global warming on terrestrial ecosystems. Despite its recognized ecological significance, only a limited number of studies on treeline ecology addresses the spatial components of its patterns and processes. These ecotones are shaped by a complex interplay of environmental factors operating across different spatial and temporal scales. The present study focuses on the role of microsites in tree regeneration at the treeline, in two sites of the Alps, Genevris Mt. (Piedmont, TO) and Croda da Lago (Veneto, BL), using both field and UAV derived data (e.g. LiDAR). The experimental design involves the transplantation of Pinus cembra wildlings, with the objective of assessing the efficacy of three microsites (open field, within shrub cover and downslope of debris) in promoting seedling survivorship. This setup aims to evaluate the impact of different microsite conditions on seedling establishment and survival in two different alpine environments. At each site we transplanted 105 individuals, manipulated in groups of five to reduce the transplant mortality. Additionally, high-resolution LiDAR and multispectral drone surveys were conducted to generate detailed digital elevation models, supporting microsite characterization. By integrating environmental manipulation trials with LiDAR-derived Digital Surface Models (DSM), this study aims to identify key drivers of tree regeneration at the treeline. The findings will contribute to broader ecological and conservation discussions, helping to guide adaptive management strategies for mountain forests in a changing climate.