Adaptation strategies of urban trees under abiotic and biotic stresses ecophysiology of urban trees in a changing climate program

Trees have proven to be historically extremely resilient to many constant abiotic and biotic pressures. However, predictions of climate change suggest that there will be novel changes in the amplitude and variation of temperature and precipitation, affecting as well urban trees due to their microclimatic conditions. Tree adaptation to novel conditions is therefore crucial for survival where the urban heat island effect exacerbates temperature changes and where tree growth is restricted by soil compaction, limited root growth, and de-icing salts in winter.Furthermore, a major issue described in the Connecticut Forest Resource Assessment & Strategy (Hochholzer, 2010) is the limited resources available for effective management of urban trees. Accordingly, this research project will investigate: 'What are the most important physiological variables to consider for understanding tree adaptation' and 'Which tree species should be planted considering predicated climate changes.' Specifically, what are the adaptive mechanisms of trees to survive under water limitation, salt toxicity and alien insect infestations. Three sub-projects are proposed: (I) Tree water balance in urban settings, (II) Physiological responses of sugar maple to salt accumulation in soils inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi, and (III) Responses of Oleaceae family naive hosts to Agrilus planipennis attack.