Abstract
The purpose of this study was to analyse physiological and morphological changes in the most common woody species of the forest ecosystem under the influence of climate change and to investigate the adaptive mechanisms that these species use to overcome stressful weather conditions. The study examined the impact of global climate change on the biological characteristics of Scots pine, northern red oak, and silver birch. In particular, the adaptive mechanisms of trees that allow them to survive and adapt to changing conditions were analysed. The influence of an increase in average temperature, changes in precipitation regimes, and extreme weather events on the growth, development, and reproduction of woody plants was considered. Field monitoring methods and laboratory experiments were used to collect data on physiological and morphological changes that occur with tree species groups under the influence of climatic pressure. The results of the study showed that global climate change can lead to significant changes in the species composition of forests, their productivity and overall environmental sustainability. The findings highlight the need for adaptive strategies for forest management and biodiversity conservation in the face of global climate change. The study also examined guidelines for practical actions aimed at mitigating the negative effects of climate change on forest ecosystems. The vulnerability of Ukrainian forests to climate change in the 21st century in comparison with the climate norm (1961-1990) was assessed. Recommendations for assessing the impact of climate change on forests, analysing phytodiversity and environmental regimes based on forest monitoring data in the context of regulatory legal acts of Ukraine, in particular, the state forest management strategy until 2035 and recommendations of the state forest cadastre of Ukraine are provided. The results of the study can be used to develop forest management strategies, implement adaptation measures in forestry, and to monitor the state of forest ecosystems and predict their resilience to climate change within the framework of national environmental programmes