Individual-tree growth dynamics of mature Abies alba during repeated irregular group shelterwood (Femelschlag) cuttings

2009 ◽  
Vol 39 (12) ◽  
pp. 2437-2449 ◽  
Author(s):  
Klaus J. Puettmann ◽  
Anthony W. D’Amato ◽  
Ulrich Kohnle ◽  
Jürgen Bauhus
Keyword(s):  
Tree Growth ◽  
Growth Response ◽  
Abies Alba ◽  
Control Treatment ◽  
Silver Fir ◽  
Initial Growth ◽  
Individual Tree ◽  
Growing Conditions ◽  
Individual Trees

This study investigated the individual-tree diameter response of mature silver fir ( Abies alba Mill.) to reproduction harvests (Femelschlag: an irregular group shelterwood method) on six sites in the Black Forest, Germany. On each site, four different treatments were applied, including a control treatment and short-, medium, and long-term regeneration periods aimed at the complete removal of overstory trees within 20, 35, and 50 years, respectively. These treatments created a wide variety of growing conditions for individual trees. Relationships between relative diameter growth and stand-level and neighborhood interaction indices were evaluated. Growing conditions for individual trees in control conditions were best characterized using Lorimer’s index for a 16 m radius neighborhood. Equations predicting tree growth in control stands underpredicted initial growth of trees after harvesting operations, suggesting a release effect that is not captured by postharvest density. This effect was larger for smaller trees and influenced by removal intensity. Growth response to density reductions was also influenced by previous harvests. Our results suggest that the growth response of mature trees to reproduction harvests may become an important consideration when increased emphasis is placed on managing for long-term regeneration periods.

Growth response to thinning and its relation to site resources in Eucalyptusregnans

1995 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 69-80 ◽  
Author(s):  
P.W. West ◽  
G.H.R. Osier
Keyword(s):  
Biomass Production ◽  
Tree Growth ◽  
Aboveground Biomass ◽  
Growth Response ◽  
Radiation Absorption ◽  
Light Use Efficiency ◽  
Individual Tree ◽  
Individual Tree Growth ◽  
Use Efficiency ◽  
Individual Trees

The factors determining individual tree growth response are examined during the 4 years following thinning in experiments in even-aged, 8- or 12-year-old regrowth Eucalyptusregnans F. Muell. forest at two sites in southern Australia. At one site, a vigorous understorey dominated by a sedge developed after the thinning. At that site, light-use efficiency by the trees was unaffected by thinning and the aboveground biomass production by the trees in the thinned stand was substantially less than that in the unthinned stand. At the other site, little understorey developed, light-use efficiency by trees in the thinned stand was greater than that in the unthinned stand, and aboveground biomass production was unaffected by thinning even though the leaf weight of the thinned stand was far below that of the unthinned stand. Where the understorey developed, it was concluded that it competed successfully with the trees for water, thereby reducing production in the thinned stand when compared with the unthinned stand. The individual tree growth response that occurred in the thinned stand at that site appeared to be due soley to the extra light available to individual trees following the canopy opening. Where the understorey did not develop, it was concluded that individual tree growth response was due not only to the extra light available to individual trees but also to the increased availability of belowground resources, most probably soil water. Application of a pre-existing stand growth model suggested that at that site the tendency for increased growth resulting from extra water availability in the thinned stand was just balanced by decreased growth due to lower radiation absorption by the reduced canopy, so that net production was unaffected by thinning.

scholarly journals Trockenperioden seit 1900 und Waldwachstum: eine Analyse langfristiger Datenreihen | Drought periods since 1900 and growth of forest stands: an analysis of long-term data series

2008 ◽  
Vol 159 (10) ◽  
pp. 352-361 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andreas Zingg ◽  
Anton Bürgi
Keyword(s):  
Tree Growth ◽  
Abies Alba ◽  
Basal Area ◽  
Basal Area Increment ◽  
Growth And Yield ◽  
Data Series ◽  
Silver Fir ◽  
Eine Analyse ◽  
Daily Precipitation Data

Drought during the vegetation period has en effect on tree growth. Using daily precipitation data and growth records from long-term research plots, we investigated what can be defined as “drought” and how strong its effect is. Dry or humid periods are defined as the deviation from the long-term daily mean of precipitation. Such periods must last at least 60 days to be considered as being decisive for tree growth. The drought values are used together with other site and stand parameters as explaining variables in a model for the basal area increment for Norway spruce (Picea abies [L] H. Karst.), silver fir (Abies alba Mill.), European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and oak (Quercus L), based on data from long-term growth and yield plots which are located in the neighbourhood of precipitation measurement stations. These models explain 55 to 89% of the variance. In drought situations basal area increment drops clearly for spruce and beech, for fir only weakly and oak shows no reaction. Furthermore, we checked if there happened additional or compulsory felling after drought periods and if the basal area growth changed significantly compared to the growth in the period before. For both it is not the case, despite distinct drought periods in the last century, especially in the 40s with the extreme year of 1947. Therefore we do not expect dramatic changes for the investigated species in similar drought situations under the prerequisite that the other conditions do not change essentially.

scholarly journals Prediction of Competition Indices in a Norway Spruce and Silver Fir-Dominated Forest Using Lidar Data

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (23) ◽  
pp. 2734 ◽  
Author(s):  
Versace ◽  
Gianelle ◽  
Frizzera ◽  
Tognetti ◽  
Garfì ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Norway Spruce ◽  
Tree Growth ◽  
Abies Alba ◽  
Field Measurements ◽  
Competitive Interactions ◽  
Mountain Forest ◽  
Lidar Data ◽  
Silver Fir ◽  
Individual Trees ◽  
Competition Indices

Competitive interactions are important predictors of tree growth. Spatial and temporal changes in resource availability, and variation in species and spatial patterning of trees alter competitive interactions, thus affecting tree growth and, hence, biomass. Competition indices are used to quantify the level of competition among trees. As these indices are normally computed only over small areas, where field measurements are done, it would be useful to have a tool to predict them over large areas. On this regard, remote sensing, and in particular light detection and ranging (lidar) data, could be the perfect tool. The objective of this study was to use lidar metrics to predict competition (on the basis of distance-dependent competition indices) of individual trees and to relate them with tree aboveground biomass (AGB). The selected study area was a mountain forest area located in the Italian Alps. The analyses focused on the two dominant species of the area: Silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) and Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst). The results showed that lidar metrics could be used to predict competition indices of individual trees (R2 above 0.66). Moreover, AGB decreased as competition increased, suggesting that variations in the availability of resources in the soil, and the ability of plants to withstand competition for light may influence the partitioning of biomass.

scholarly journals Evidence of elevation-specific growth changes of spruce, fir, and beech in European mixed mountain forests during the last three centuries

2020 ◽  
Vol 50 (7) ◽  
pp. 689-703 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hans Pretzsch ◽  
Torben Hilmers ◽  
Peter Biber ◽  
Admir Avdagić ◽  
Franz Binder ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Abies Alba ◽  
European Beech ◽  
Spatiotemporal Pattern ◽  
Silver Fir ◽  
Mountain Forests ◽  
Growth Trend ◽  
Dependent Change ◽  
Fagus Sylvatica L ◽  
Growth Changes

In Europe, mixed mountain forests, primarily comprised of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.), silver fir (Abies alba Mill.), and European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), cover about 10 × 106 ha at elevations between ∼600 and 1600 m a.s.l. These forests provide invaluable ecosystem services. However, the growth of these forests and the competition among their main species are expected to be strongly affected by climate warming. In this study, we analyzed the growth development of spruce, fir, and beech in moist mixed mountain forests in Europe over the last 300 years. Based on tree-ring analyses on long-term observational plots, we found for all three species (i) a nondecelerating, linear diameter growth trend spanning more than 300 years; (ii) increased growth levels and trends, the latter being particularly pronounced for fir and beech; and (iii) an elevation-dependent change of fir and beech growth. Whereas in the past, the growth was highest at lower elevations, today’s growth is superior at higher elevations. This spatiotemporal pattern indicates significant changes in the growth and interspecific competition at the expense of spruce in mixed mountain forests. We discuss possible causes, consequences, and silvicultural implications of these distinct growth changes in mixed mountain forests.

Photosynthetic performance of silver fir (Abies alba) of different origins under suboptimal growing conditions

2020 ◽  
Vol 47 (11) ◽  
pp. 1007
Author(s):  
Alena Konôpková ◽  
Eva Pšidová ◽  
Daniel Kurjak ◽  
Srđan Stojnić ◽  
Peter Petrík ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Heat Waves ◽  
Physiological Stress ◽  
Abies Alba ◽  
Photosynthetic Performance ◽  
Population Variation ◽  
Silver Fir ◽  
Gas Exchange Parameters ◽  
Psii Photochemistry ◽  
Growing Conditions ◽  
The Impact

Understanding of the intraspecific variability in the physiological stress response of trees may enable to mitigate the impact of climate change on forest ecosystems in the future. We studied the photosynthetic performance of five silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) provenances originating from climatically distinct localities. The study was performed in the trial plot of the silver fir provenance experiment IUFRO 2005 on two dates: in the early summer and in the late summer. Heat waves and a decrease in water availability occurred between the two measurement dates, allowing us to study the response of the provenances to suboptimal growing conditions. The provenances were evaluated at the level of PSII photochemistry and CO2 assimilation by measuring photosynthesis-related pigment content, chlorophyll a fluorescence, and gas exchange parameters. Significant climatic clines were confirmed: the photosynthetic performance before and after the stress period increased with the increasing altitude and precipitation at the site of origin. In contrast, photosynthetic performance declined with the increasing temperature and Ellenberg’s quotient of the origin site. We concluded that provenances originating from high altitudes, corresponding well with more humid and colder conditions in Central Europe, showed the greatest photosynthetic performance and were less responsive to moderate heat and drought. This documents inter-population variation in physiological traits, which needs to be considered in setting rules and recommendations for the transfer of forest reproductive materials.

scholarly journals Increased Individual Tree Growth Maintains Stand Volume Growth after B-Level Thinning and Crop-Tree Management in Mature Oak Stands

2019 ◽  
Vol 65 (6) ◽  
pp. 784-795
Author(s):  
Jeffrey S Ward ◽  
Jessica Wikle
Keyword(s):  
Tree Growth ◽  
Growth Response ◽  
Volume Growth ◽  
Diameter Growth ◽  
Red Oak ◽  
Individual Tree ◽  
Stand Volume ◽  
Tree Management ◽  
Individual Tree Growth ◽  
Partial Release

AbstractSix study areas were established in 80–125-year-old upland oak stands on average sites to compare stand and individual tree growth response following two active treatments (B-level thinning, crop tree) with an unmanaged control. Initial stocking of 104 percent was reduced to 62 percent and 60 percent on the B-level and crop-tree-management plots, respectively. Approximately 7,200 board feet per acre (International ¼) were harvested on the actively managed plots with upland oaks accounting for 81 percent of pre- and 86 percent of residual stand. Eleven-year diameter and volume growth of oak sawtimber trees was greater on actively managed plots. Growth response increased with degree of release and was maintained for the length of the study. Because of the increased individual tree growth of oaks in response to release, stand volume growth of oak sawtimber did not differ between treatments. In contrast to an 11-year decline of poletimber stocking on unmanaged plots, poletimber stocking increased on managed plots as diameter growth increased in response to partial release. This may increase difficulty of regenerating oak in the future. For those mature red oak stands where traditional regeneration prescriptions will not be implemented or will be delayed, commercial harvests can be conducted without compromising stand volume growth of oak.

scholarly journals Strip Thinning and Spacing Increases Tree Growth of Young Black Spruce

1996 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 68-72 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joanie Burns ◽  
Klaus J. Puettmann ◽  
Don Perala
Keyword(s):  
Tree Growth ◽  
Growth Response ◽  
Black Spruce ◽  
Economic Feasibility ◽  
Stand Volume ◽  
Spruce Stands ◽  
Growing Conditions ◽  
Increased Growth Response

Abstract Two different thinning methods were applied to three 6- or 7-yr-old black spruce stands in northern Minnesota which were measured after 20 yr. Overall, thinning improved the growing conditions for crop trees. Strip thinning with a 0.6 m leave strip and three widths of cleared strips (1.5 m, 2.1 m, and 2.7 m), and spacing to 1.5 m, 2.1 m, and 2.7 m resulted in reduced numbers of crop trees, but with larger diameters and, in the spacing thinned plots, greater heights. Because of these contradicting trends, stand volume was unaffected by thinning. Crop tree growth was not affected by the width of the cleared strip, but the distances between the leave trees in the square spacing were positively related to the increased growth response after thinning. The study is still too young to evaluate the economic feasibility of both thinning treatments, but shorter rotations or substantially increased volume seem possible by early thinnings of black spruce. North. J. Appl. For. 13(2):68-72.

An inventory-based approach for modeling single-tree storm damage — experiences with the winter storm of 1999 in southwestern Germany

2010 ◽  
Vol 40 (8) ◽  
pp. 1636-1652 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthias Schmidt ◽  
Marc Hanewinkel ◽  
Gerald Kändler ◽  
Edgar Kublin ◽  
Ulrich Kohnle
Keyword(s):  
Flow Field ◽  
Additive Model ◽  
Geographical Location ◽  
Abies Alba ◽  
Silver Fir ◽  
Storm Damage ◽  
Individual Tree ◽  
Actual Distribution ◽  
Damage Probability ◽  
Waterlogged Soils

Based on individual tree damage data dating back to the gale “Lothar” (winter 1999) in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, a statistical model was developed to estimate the risk of storm damage for individual trees. The data were compiled from the National German Forest Inventory. The model attempts to separate the effects of tree-specific variables, topography, site conditions and flow field related effects on damage probability. The crucial problem of missing information on the actual flow field parameters was solved by applying a generalized additive model that enables the simultaneous fit of a spatial trend function. The geographical location of risk hotspots as predicted by the model correspond well to the actual distribution pattern of storm damage as assessed by the forest service. Tree height proved to be one of the most important factors affecting the level of damage, while height to diameter at breast height ratio influences damage probability to a much lesser extent. The Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) Karst.) group has the highest potential to be damaged followed by the silver fir ( Abies alba Miller) – Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) group and the Scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris L.) – larches ( Larix spp.) group. Predicted probabilities for deciduous trees are generally lower than those of conifers. West- to south-exposed locations bear a considerably higher damage risk and waterlogged soils show an increased predicted probability compared with slightly or not waterlogged soils.

scholarly journals Liana infestation impacts tree growth in a lowland tropical moist forest

2009 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 3133-3158 ◽  
Author(s):  
G. M. F. van der Heijden ◽  
O. L. Phillips
Keyword(s):  
Tropical Forests ◽  
Tree Growth ◽  
Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Growth Conditions ◽  
Linear Mixed Effect Model ◽  
Mixed Effect ◽  
Individual Tree ◽  
Rate Of Increase ◽  
Growing Conditions

Abstract. Stand-level estimates of the effect of lianas on tree growth in mature tropical forests are needed to evaluate the functional impact of lianas and their potential to affect the ability of tropical forests to sequester carbon, but these are currently lacking. Using data collected on tree growth rates, local growing conditions and liana competition in five permanent sampling plots in Amazonian Peru, we present the first such estimates of the effect of lianas on above-ground productivity of trees. By constructing a multi-level linear mixed effect model to predict individual tree diameter growth model using individual tree growth conditions, we were able to estimate stand-level above-ground biomass (AGB) increment in the absence of lianas. We show that lianas, mainly by competing above-ground with trees, reduce tree annual above-ground stand-level biomass by ~10%, equivalent to 0.51 Mg dry weight ha−1 yr−1 or 0.25 Mg C ha−1 yr−1. AGB increment of lianas themselves was estimated to be 0.15 Mg dry weight ha−1 yr−1 or 0.07 Mg C ha−1 yr−1, thus only compensating ~29% of the liana-induced reduction in stand-level AGB increment. Increasing liana pressure on tropical forests may therefore not only reduce their carbon storage capacity, by indirectly promoting tree species with low-density wood, but also their rate of carbon uptake, with potential consequences for the rate of increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document