Italian beech forests have learned to adapt to the climate. In the southern regions the trees are more efficient in using water, while in the north apparently healthy forests hide early signs of stress.
The most drastic effect was detected in Trentino-Alto Adige, where a greater reduction in tree growth was also observed compared to other sites such as Lazio, Campania and the Matese area. The study was published in the journal Scientific Reports and led by the Institute for Agricultural and Forestry Systems of the Mediterranean of Perugia.