Specific features of radial growth of coniferous trees in the rorest-steppe zone of Northern Kazakhstan: a dendrochronological approach

Abstract

Abstract. This article provides a review of current scientific research on the dynamics of radial tree growth under the influence of climate change and anthropogenic impacts, with a focus on the forest-steppe ecosystems of Kazakhstan. Dendrochronological approaches are examined as the methodological foundation, enabling the identification of links between climatic factors, soil ecological conditions, and biological responses of woody plants. Based on the analysis of national and international literature, it is shown that tree radial growth is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, drought, heavy metal pollution, and other stressors. Key methods of tree-ring analysis are highlighted, including ARSTAN and TSAP software, as well as statistical models commonly applied in dendroclimatology. The results emphasize the importance of an integrated interdisciplinary approach to studying forest ecosystem resilience and highlight the need to expand dendroecological research to develop adaptive strategies for sustainable forest management in Kazakhstan.