Microclimate Variation and Heat Impacts on Vegetation: From Molecules to the Biosphere

Convener: Sean Michaletz | Co-conveners: Kali MiddlebyECSECS, Santiago Trueba, Sonya GeangeECSECS

Understanding plant responses to climate extremes is crucial for predicting climate change and its effects on the biosphere. Heat waves and hot droughts are increasing in frequency, intensity, and duration, yet the microclimates plants experience often differ substantially from ambient macroclimates. Predicting heat effects on plant functioning therefore requires insight into both the mechanisms driving microclimate variation and the physiological responses of plants to heat.

This session features contributions that integrate the physical sciences and plant physiology to advance understanding of how microclimate variation influences plant functioning from molecules to the biosphere. Topics may include model development and testing, observational or experimental data, and interdisciplinary approaches that quantify or predict microclimate dynamics or physiological responses to climate extremes. Submissions focusing on energy balance, canopy structure, heat tolerance or acclimation, or novel modelling or measurement techniques are particularly encouraged.