![[Aggregator] Downloaded image for imported item #8208](https://echoesofthelastmind.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/cambio-climatico-arboles-de-montana-1786282691070.webp)
As global temperatures rise, scientists have largely assumed that mountain tree species will move to higher elevations in search of cooler conditions. However, the reality is proving to be more complex.
The Green Mountains. The trees growing on the highest peaks of the Green Mountains are mountain forests and were the focus of this study. Credit: Ren Dillon, UVM.A surprising new study reveals why some mountain tree species are actually moving downhill, even as climate change drives others to higher, cooler elevations.
New research published in Nature Climate Change reveals a far more complex picture: while some tree species are moving uphill, others are shifting downhill, and the key to understanding these contrasting responses lies in how trees manage water.
Mountain forests are being reshaped by climate change
In one of the most comprehensive analyses of its kind, an international team of researchers combined tree-ring records from more than 121,000 trees belonging to 45 species, climate-growth data from 3,057 forest sites worldwide, information on hydraulic traits and global observations of altitudinal range shifts in 102 mountain tree species. Their findings show that the hydraulic traits of tree species – physiological characteristics that regulate water transport, drought tolerance and growth – are key indicators of how forests are being reorganised in response to climate change.
Tim Rademacher, co-author of the study and Director of UVM’s Proctor Maple Research Centre, described the significance of the findings: “This research explains why some tree species are moving to higher elevations as the climate warms while others are not, improving
Original Record.
This archived record authored by ‘Helena Mottram’ at ‘METEORED (Your Weather)’ was recovered from data set:
English