Ash Dieback in Switzerland

In this project, we investigate how the invasive fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus influences growth and wood anatomical parameters of Common ash (Fraxinus excelsior).

We analyze three stands in Switzerland with a unique setting of eight years of data availability of intra-annual diameter growth and annual crown health assessments. We complement this by ring-width and quantitative wood anatomical measurements extending back before the monitoring started to investigate if wood anatomical adjustments can help better explain the size-related dieback phenomenon. Stable isotope analyses of tree rings will further shed light into potential mechanisms behind the variability of die back.

Together with national partners at the IAP and NFI, we will provide a national model to better understand the distribution and severity of dieback in Switzerland.