Investigating the Spatial Pattern of White Oak (Quercus alba L.) Mortality Using Ripley’s K Function Across the Ten States of the Eastern US

Abstract

White oak mortality is a significant concern in forest ecosystems due to its impact on biodiversity and ecosystem functions. Understanding the factors influencing white oak mortality is crucial for effective forest management and conservation efforts. In this study, we aimed to investigate the spatial pattern of WOM rates across the eastern US and explore the underlying processes behind the observed spatial patterns. Multicycle forest inventory and analysis data were compiled to capture all white oak plots. WOM data were selected across plot systems that utilized declining basal areas between two periods. Ripley’s K function was used to study the spatial pattern of WOM rates. Results showed clustered patterns of WOM rates at local and broad scales that may indicate stand-level competition and regional variables affecting white oaks’ dynamics across southern and northern regions. Results also indicated random patterns at broad scales, suggesting variations in topographic and hydrological conditions across the south and northern regions. However, the central region indicated both clustered and random patterns at the local scale that might be associated with inter-species competition and the possibility of environmental heterogeneity, respectively. Furthermore, uniform patterns of WOM rate at a broad scale across all regions might suggest regions with spatially homogeneous environmental factors acting on the dynamics of white oaks. This research might be helpful in identifying impacted areas of white oaks at varying scales. Future research is needed to comprehensively assess biotic and abiotic factors at various spatial scales aimed at mitigating WOM.