PETM Forest Dieback & Modern Analog

56 Ma Paleo-Botanical Engine
CANOPY TRANSECT & XYLEM SAP TENSION STATUS: STABLE EQUILIBRIUM
Presets:
Xylem Tension (Ψ)
-2.8 MPa
Threshold Ψ50: -2.4 MPa
Leaf Area Index (LAI)
2.8 m²/m²
Pre-pulse: 5.8 m²/m²
Vapor Pressure Deficit
3.4 kPa
Stomatal closure trigger: 2.2 kPa
Cavitation Risk (PLC)
62%
Percent Loss Conductance
⚠️ Widespread Canopy Dieback in Progress

Extreme vapor pressure deficit and prolonged xylem cavitation breach hydraulic safety margins. Stomata close to prevent embolism, shutting down carbon assimilation and triggering leaf senescence.

HYDRAULIC VULNERABILITY CURVE (P50 EMBOLISM)
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