TER38-Complexities in tundra ecosystem responses to global change

The Arctic is warming three times the global average rate creating dramatic shifts in the functioning of tundra ecosystems, yet not all processes are responding in similar or predictable ways. Here we highlight the complexities in terrestrial ecosystem responses to global change with an emphasis on linking processes across biological scales, trophic levels, and above-belowground dynamics.  We invite studies in several emerging research areas including above and belowground tundra phenology and links to plant fitness, population dynamics and ecosystem function;  shrubification, controls over shrub growth and impacts on Arctic greening and browning; multi-trophic interactions including changes in herbivory and plant-pollinator relationships; and terrestrial ecosystem responses to climate variability and extreme events. This session will highlight cutting edge research filling these and other key knowledge gaps to expand our understanding of plant population, community and ecosystem dynamics in a warming Arctic.

Co-Chairs:

Courtney Collins, University of British Columbia
Greg Henry, University of British Columbia
Zoe Panchen, University of British Columbia
Cassandra Elphinstone, University of British Columbia