RT info:eu-repo/semantics/contributionToPeriodical
T1 European Mixed Forests: definition and research perspectives
A1 Bravo Oviedo, Andrés
A1 Bravo Oviedo, Felipe
A2 Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Agrarias (España)
K1 Bosques y silvicultura - Europa
AB Aim of study: We aim at (i) developing a reference definition of mixed forests in order to harmonize comparativeresearch in mixed forests and (ii) briefly review the research perspectives in mixed forests.Area of study: The definition is developed in Europe but can be tested worldwide.Material and methods: Review of existent definitions of mixed forests based and literature review encompassingdynamics, management and economic valuation of mixed forests.Main results: A mixed forest is defined as a forest unit, excluding linear formations, where at least two tree speciescoexist at any developmental stage, sharing common resources (light, water, and/or soil nutrients). The presence ofeach of the component species is normally quantified as a proportion of the number of stems or of basal area, althoughvolume, biomass or canopy cover as well as proportions by occupied stand area may be used for specific objectives.A variety of structures and patterns of mixtures can occur, and the interactions between the component species andtheir relative proportions may change over time.The research perspectives identified are (i) species interactions and responses to hazards, (ii) the concept of maximumdensity in mixed forests, (iii) conversion of monocultures to mixed-species forest and (iv) economic valuation ofecosystem services provided by mixed forests.Research highlights: The definition is considered a high-level one which encompasses previous attempts to definemixed forests. Current fields of research indicate that gradient studies, experimental design approaches, and modelsimulations are key topics providing new research opportunities.Key words: COST Action; EuMIXFOR; mixed-species forests; admixtures of species.
SN 2171-5068
YR 2014
FD 2014
LK http://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/7663
UL http://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/7663
LA eng
NO Forest Systems 2014 23(3): 518-533
NO Instituto Universitario de Gestión Forestal Sostenible
DS UVaDOC
RD 11-jul-2024