Ecophysiological responses of Nothofagus alessandrii to abiotic stressors: A systematic review and bibliometric analysis toward an integrated research framework

Nothofagus alessandrii, an endemic tree species of Chile, is under threat of extinction due to escalating anthropogenic pressures. Rapid plantations expansion and habitat fragmentation have drastically reduced its distribution, impaired natural regeneration, and compromised population viability. Although several studies have addressed its response to different climatic scenarios, the results have been uncertain. In this context, this review aims to synthesize the evidence of different abiotic environmental stress conditions on the ecophysiological response of N. alessandrii, including radiation, water and nutrient availability, and disturbances caused by wildfires. The results show that N. alessandrii is highly sensitive to abiotic stressors, particularly to drought conditions, and exposure to high solar radiation during early growth stages. Achieving effective restoration and recuperation of N. alessandrii requires controlled microenvironmental conditions, including moderate shading (18–50 % canopy cover), sustained soil moisture levels, ambient humidity above 50 %, and balanced nutrient availability. Fire events and prolonged droughts emerge as the primary threats to natural regeneration, exacerbating microclimatic stress, reducing seedling survival, and facilitating the invasion of exotic species. These findings highlight the critical need for an adaptive and integrated management framework that simultaneously addresses fire prevention, microclimatic buffering, and soil conservation strategies to ensure the long-term persistence of N. alessandrii populations.