Tree species selection for ecosystem services and resilience in agroforestry systems

Staton, T. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0597-0121, Beauchamp, K., Broome, A., Smith, L. G. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9898-9288 and Breeze, T. D. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8929-8354 (2025) Tree species selection for ecosystem services and resilience in agroforestry systems. Agricultural Systems, 230. 104476. ISSN 1873-2267 doi: 10.1016/j.agsy.2025.104476

Abstract/Summary

Context Agroforestry systems have generated significant interest from research, policy and practice for their potential to deliver multiple ecosystem services alongside food production. However, information on tree species selection to maximise benefits and minimise risks is highly fragmented. Objective This study evaluates how tree species in agroforestry systems influence ecosystem services and resilience to climate change and biotic threats, focussing on a UK context. Methods A rapid literature review assessed 33 tree species and 17 attributes related to ecosystem services and resilience, selected with input from 28 stakeholders. We analysed correlations among attributes of tree species relating to ecosystem services and resilience and identified synergies and trade-offs. We used cluster analysis to define functional groups of tree species. Results and conclusions Nine species clusters were identified, each with distinct benefits and risks in terms of ecosystem services and resilience attributes. Taxonomically similar species tended to have similar ecosystem service and resilience attributes. Correlation analysis identified trade-offs between the value of tree species to wildlife and projected future range. We identify further research needs to understand and communicate the role of tree species selection for agroforestry systems, particularly with regard to soil-related factors such as acidification, nutrient and organic matter accumulation, and pollution mitigation. Significance Species selection at farm and local levels should be guided by local ecosystem service and resilience priorities alongside management objectives. At regional and national levels, we advocate for a taxonomically diverse range of species to support multifunctional, resilient agroforestry systems.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://centaur.reading.ac.uk/id/eprint/124087
Identification Number/DOI	10.1016/j.agsy.2025.104476
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Life Sciences > School of Agriculture, Policy and Development > Department of Agri-Food Economics & Marketing
Publisher	Elsevier
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