Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species

A special issue of Forests (ISSN 1999-4907). This special issue belongs to the section "Forest Ecology and Management".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 September 2023) | Viewed by 20973

Special Issue Editors

Instituto de Silvicultura e Industria de la Madera, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34120, Mexico
Interests: forest valuation; forest management; silviculture; forest economics; timber harvesting
Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, C.P., Durango 34120, Mexico
Interests: forest seeds; forest nurseries; forest plantations; forest management improvement
Instituto de Silvicultura e Industria de la Madera, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34120, Mexico
Interests: biodiversity; sustainability; conservation biology; forestry; silviculture; forest fragmentation; tropical forest ecology
Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze 13 Ed.4, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Interests: Mediterranean forests; invasive species; forest ecology; ailanthus; Quercus; silviculture; mycorrhizal symbiosis; old growth forests

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

As part of forest structures, the spatial distribution patterns of forest tree species is a function of the interaction of several environmental variables and many ecological processes, also capable of affecting ecosystem processes and biological diversity. Consequently, understanding these forest patterns can contribute to understand the history, function and potential future of a forest’s ecosystem; with this information also being an essential basis for the analysis of disturbances in such an environment.

Tree growth, or increment, is a lengthy and complex life process involving several ontogenetic phases from germination to maturity. Tree growth models describe the growth of forest ecosystems by considering how the dimensions of each simulated tree change in a specified period of time and are usually divided into single-tree and whole stand models used to answer ecological questions by, e.g., defining the impact of the interdependence between the tree species and their environment on forest development and assessing forest yields under certain prescribed conditions. Tree growth models are, therefore, important tools for understanding the dynamics of forest ecosystems and for effective and sustainable forest management.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

  • Species distribution models;
  • Provenance distribution models;
  • Provenance tests;
  • Spatial distribution of trees;
  • Spatial genetic structures of tree species;
  • Spatialvariability of vegetation structure;
  • Climate change and its impact on species and provenance/seed zone distribution.

Prof. Dr. José Ciro Hernández-Díaz
Prof. Dr. José Ángel Prieto-Ruíz
Prof. Dr. Christian Wehenkel
Dr. Emilio Badalamenti
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • SDM
  • SGS
  • climate change
  • assisted migration
  • growth model
  • GADA
  • ADA
  • growth parameters

Published Papers (15 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 3493 KiB  
Article
Mountain Taiga in a Warming Climate: Contrast of Siberian Pine Growth along an Elevation Gradient
by Viacheslav I. Kharuk, Il’ya A. Petrov, Alexey S. Golyukov, Sergei T. Im and Alexander S. Shushpanov
Forests 2024, 15(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15010050 - 26 Dec 2023
Viewed by 746
Abstract
The growth and survival of trees in the Siberian Mountains are experiencing a strong influence on climate warming. We analyzed Siberian pine (SP, Pinus sibirica) growth within the treeline ecotone in high (>1000 m) and low (<900 m) lands. We used ground [...] Read more.
The growth and survival of trees in the Siberian Mountains are experiencing a strong influence on climate warming. We analyzed Siberian pine (SP, Pinus sibirica) growth within the treeline ecotone in high (>1000 m) and low (<900 m) lands. We used ground surveys, dendrochronology, and climate variable data analysis. We found a contrasting response of SP growth with increasing air temperature and moisture parameters along the elevation gradient. In the treeline ecotone and highlands, the tree’s growth has been increasing since warming onset in the 1970s, whereas in the lowlands, the initial growth increase switched to a growth drop since the beginning of the 2000s, with a consequent partial mortality of the Siberian pine forest caused by warming-driven water stress in combination with bark borers’ attacks. This mortality suggests the retraction of the Siberian pine range in the lowlands of the Siberian Mountains. The projected drought increase will likely lead to the substitution of Siberian pine with drought-tolerant species. The tree’s growth index (GI) dependence on air temperature and moisture variables includes two phases. In the first phase (since the warming onset in the 1970s), the trees’ GI was positively correlated with elevated temperature, whereas correlations with precipitation and soil moisture were negative. During the second phase (since the increase in warming in the 2000s), negative correlations between the GI and moisture variables switched to positive ones. The correlations of the GI with air temperature switched from positive to mostly insignificant. The wind’s influence on the trees’ growth changed from negative to insignificant since the 2000s within all elevation belts. Afforestation within the areas of Siberian pine mortality should not be based on the planting of Siberian pine but on drought-tolerant species such as larch (Larix sibirica) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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17 pages, 7012 KiB  
Article
The Multivariate Distribution of Stand Spatial Structure and Tree Size Indices Using Neighborhood-Based Variables in Coniferous and Broad Mixed Forest
by Yiru Wang, Jiping Li, Xiaoyu Cao, Zhaohua Liu and Yong Lv
Forests 2023, 14(11), 2228; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14112228 - 12 Nov 2023
Viewed by 819
Abstract
The spatial structure of forest stands significantly influences inter-tree competition and the overall stability of the stand’s ecological dynamics, and a profound understanding of forest stand spatial structure is essential for both effective forest management and ecological research. Previous studies on spatial structure [...] Read more.
The spatial structure of forest stands significantly influences inter-tree competition and the overall stability of the stand’s ecological dynamics, and a profound understanding of forest stand spatial structure is essential for both effective forest management and ecological research. Previous studies on spatial structure have primarily employed single variables, offering only one-dimensional structural insights and lacking the capacity to interpret multidimensional information. In light of these limitations, our study introduces a novel approach founded on a six-variable distribution, aimed at conducting a comprehensive analysis and interpretation of the spatial attributes of forest stands. Diverging from conventional univariate or bivariate methods, the hexi-variate approach simultaneously considers six variables, facilitating a more intricate exploration of the intricate interrelationships within forest ecosystems from six distinct dimensions. We conducted an in-depth analysis of the spatial structural attributes within the forest stand, encompassing factors such as species diversity, size variation, spatial distribution patterns, openness, vertical stratification, and stand competition. To capture a comprehensive view of the trees’ spatial information, we employed the hexadecimal distribution method, effectively quantifying their characteristics across six dimensions. Our study unveiled a significant correlation between spatial structure and stand growth, establishing a connection by integrating the spatial structure with key structural features relevant to tree size. The outcomes of this study shed light on the effectiveness and superiority of the six-element distribution method when it comes to the analysis of forest structural characteristics. Our approach offers valuable insights into the optimization of forest management strategies, encompassing selective harvesting and biodiversity conservation, thereby establishing a solid footing for sustainable forest management practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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16 pages, 2715 KiB  
Article
Estimation of the Population Dynamics of Taxus cuspidata by Using a Static Life Table for Its Conservation
by Dan Liu, Zhongling Guo, Xiaoyang Cui and Chunnan Fan
Forests 2023, 14(11), 2194; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14112194 - 04 Nov 2023
Viewed by 808
Abstract
Taxus cuspidata is a rare and endangered plant species with an extremely small population which is endemic to China. This study focused on the natural T. cuspidata population in Jilin Province in China. Conventional population ecology survey methods were used to describe its [...] Read more.
Taxus cuspidata is a rare and endangered plant species with an extremely small population which is endemic to China. This study focused on the natural T. cuspidata population in Jilin Province in China. Conventional population ecology survey methods were used to describe its population structure characteristics. Then, we chose diameter structure instead of temporal structure to establish a static population life table, draw a population survival curve, and quantify the future development trend by using population dynamic analysis and time sequence prediction. The results showed that: (1) the static life table suggested that the population of T. cuspidata was stable overall. The population survival curve tended to be Deevey Ⅱ, with a high early seedling mortality, and the later population growth tended to be stable; (2) the survival curve suggested that the population initially experienced higher mortality rates in the early stage. However, as time progressed and the population aged, the mortality rates decreased, resulting in a more stable population in the middle and late stages; (3) The diameter class structure of T. cuspidata was stable overall, and the dynamic indices showed that the population was fluctuating. The population was influenced by external disturbances and showed some resistance to human disturbance; (4) time sequence prediction analysis showed that the mortality rate of young individuals was high, natural renewal could be maintained, and the population size would remain at a certain amount in the future. The result shows that the Jilin region is a highly suitable area for the growth of Taxus cuspidata’s population in Northeast China. We recommend in situ conservation of remaining wild populations, relocation of germplasm resources, and reduction of human activities; these actions will be beneficial to Taxus cuspidata’s long-term survival. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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14 pages, 3500 KiB  
Article
Effects of Distance and Neighbor Size on Abies hickelii: The Asymmetric Competition Is Aggravated in an Endangered Species
by Pablo Antúnez, Iván Hernández-Cruz, Fatima Ibrahim-Abdulsalam, Ricardo Clark-Tapia, Faustino Ruiz-Aquino and César Valenzuela-Encinas
Forests 2023, 14(8), 1654; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14081654 - 16 Aug 2023
Viewed by 829
Abstract
One of the hypotheses in the field of forest ecology suggests that competition among individual plants is asymmetric or unidirectional. This notion holds particular significance for endangered species, necessitating a comprehensive assessment of the impact of their closest competitors to understand their spatial [...] Read more.
One of the hypotheses in the field of forest ecology suggests that competition among individual plants is asymmetric or unidirectional. This notion holds particular significance for endangered species, necessitating a comprehensive assessment of the impact of their closest competitors to understand their spatial distribution and local-scale interactions. The mean response of Abies hickelii’s diameter at breast height and total height was determined for each unit that increased the distance from its neighbor and each unit that changed the size of its neighbor. The results obtained through the analysis of covariance suggest that, for each meter that the distance from the neighbor increases, there is a mean gain of 1.13 cm in the diameter of the individuals studied. The height results showed higher sensitivity to changes in the neighbor distance than the diameter. It was observed that the population is exposed to asymmetric competition, suggesting that larger individuals take available resources disproportionately, thereby inhibiting the growth of smaller individuals. The intraspecific competition surpassed the interspecific competition. A suggestion was made to use selective thinning during the early-growth stages of the species. The habitat of the species studied is under strong pressure from land use change due to clandestine logging, the opening of roads, and other anthropogenic effects. Thus, these results represent an important step in the implementation of action strategies to preserve the species in the wild. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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29 pages, 5905 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Poplar’s (Populus nigra ita.) Root Systems for Quantifying Bio-Engineering Measures in New Zealand Pastoral Hill Country
by Ha My Ngo, Feiko Bernard van Zadelhoff, Ivo Gasparini, Julien Plaschy, Gianluca Flepp, Luuk Dorren, Chris Phillips, Filippo Giadrossich and Massimiliano Schwarz
Forests 2023, 14(6), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14061240 - 15 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1577
Abstract
Populus nigra ita. is an important tree species for preventing rainfall-triggered shallow landslides and hydraulic bank erosion in New Zealand. However, the quantification of its spatial root distribution and reinforcement remains challenging. The objective of this study is to calibrate and validate models [...] Read more.
Populus nigra ita. is an important tree species for preventing rainfall-triggered shallow landslides and hydraulic bank erosion in New Zealand. However, the quantification of its spatial root distribution and reinforcement remains challenging. The objective of this study is to calibrate and validate models for the spatial upscaling of root distribution and root reinforcement. The data were collected in a 26-year-old “Tasman” poplar stand at Ballantrae Hill Country Research Station in New Zealand. We assessed root distribution at different distances from the stem of four poplar trees and from eleven soil pits along a transect located in a sparse to densely planting poplar stand. 124 laboratory tensile tests and 66 field pullout tests on roots with diameters up to 0.04 m were carried out to estimate root mechanical properties. The results show that the spatial distribution of roots can be well predicted in trenches of individual tree root systems (R2 = 0.78), whereas it tends to overestimate root distribution when planting density was higher than 200 stems per hectare. The root reinforcement is underestimated within single tree root systems (R2 = 0.64), but it performs better for the data along the transect. In conclusion, our study provided a unique and detailed database for quantifying root distribution and reinforcement of poplars on a hillslope. The implementation of these models for the simulation of shallow landslides and hydraulic bank erosion is crucial for identifying hazardous zones and for the prioritization of bio-engineering measures in New Zealand catchments. Results from this study are useful in formulating a general guideline for the planning of bio-engineering measures considering the temporal dynamics of poplar’s growth and their effectiveness in sediment and erosion control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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20 pages, 3259 KiB  
Article
Laurel Regeneration Management by Smallholders to Generate Agroforestry Systems in the Ecuadorian Amazon Upper Basin: Growth and Yield Models
by Álvaro Cañadas-López, Paul Gamboa-Trujillo, Santiago Buitrón-Garrido, Byron Medina-Torres, Christian Velasco, José de Jesús Vargas-Hernández and Christian Wehenkel
Forests 2023, 14(6), 1174; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14061174 - 06 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 998
Abstract
Laurel (Cordia alliodora Ruiz & Pav. Oken) is a Neotropical native tree that is easily regenerated in the secondary forest within the Amazon region. Amazonian smallholders use this tree regeneration to obtain a homogeneous forest cover when developing local agroforestry systems, which [...] Read more.
Laurel (Cordia alliodora Ruiz & Pav. Oken) is a Neotropical native tree that is easily regenerated in the secondary forest within the Amazon region. Amazonian smallholders use this tree regeneration to obtain a homogeneous forest cover when developing local agroforestry systems, which do not depend on nursery seedling production for tree planting. The objective of the present investigation was to develop growth and yield models for Laurel within the local agroforestry systems. A total of 226 sampling plots were measured between 2010–2011 and 2014–2015. Chapman- Richard, Hosslfeld II, and the generalized algebraic difference approach (GADA) form of the Chapman-Richard’s function was used for modeling height-age and diameter-age relationships. Eight volume models were tested to describe total stem volume. The GADA method was suited to describe the Laurel height and diameter-age growth. The cutting cycle for agroforestry systems with a density of 300 trees ha−1 at the best site index (SI) (22 m) produced 13.9 m3 ha−1 year−1 and a total wood yield of 195.1 m3 ha−1 at age 14. In the worst SI (14 m), the average annual yield was 3.5 m3 ha−1, with a total yield of 83.3 m3 ha−1 at age 24 years. The Spurr potential model was the best fit to describe the volume of the Laurel according to the Akaike information criteria. The Laurel biological (optimal) rotation age suggests that the minimum cutting diameter should be lowered from 30 cm of DBH in the research zone. Management of the natural regeneration of secondary forests by smallholders is a local agroforestry practice that should be given greater attention, especially within protected forest areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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14 pages, 1575 KiB  
Article
Do Distance-Dependent Competition Indices Contribute to Improve Diameter and Total Height Tree Growth Prediction in Juvenile Cork Oak Plantations?
by Paulo Neves Firmino, Margarida Tomé and Joana Amaral Paulo
Forests 2023, 14(5), 1066; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14051066 - 22 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1090
Abstract
Competition indices may improve tree growth modelling in high-density stands, found often in new cork oak plantations. Distance-dependent competition indices have hardly been considered for juvenile cork oak plantations since existing models were developed for low-density mature stands. This study aims at inspecting [...] Read more.
Competition indices may improve tree growth modelling in high-density stands, found often in new cork oak plantations. Distance-dependent competition indices have hardly been considered for juvenile cork oak plantations since existing models were developed for low-density mature stands. This study aims at inspecting the potential of including distance-dependent competition indices into diameter at breast height (d) and total height (h) growth models for Quercus suber L., comparing several distance-dependent and distance-independent competition indices. Annual d and h growth were modelled with linear and non-linear growth functions, formulated as difference equations. Base models were initially fitted considering parameter estimates depending only on site index (S) and/or stand density (N). They were refitted, testing the significance of adding each competition index to the model parameters. Selected models included the best-performing distance-dependent or -independent competition indices as additional predictors. Best base d and h growth models showed a modelling efficiency (ef) of ef = 0.9833 and ef = 0.9900, respectively. Adding a distance-dependent competition index slightly improved growth models, to an ef = 0.9851 for d and ef = 0.9902 for h. Best distance-dependent competition indices slightly overperformed distance-independent ones in diameter growth models. Neither S nor N were included on best fitted models. If inter-tree competition is present in juvenile undebarked cork oak plantations, it does not yet strongly impact individual tree growth, which may diminish the importance of using, at this stage, more complex spatially explicit competition indices on predicting individual tree growth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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17 pages, 2465 KiB  
Article
Geographic Range vs. Occurrence Records in Plant Distribution Mapping: The Case of Arbutus in the Old World
by Simone De Santis, Francesco Spada and Donatella Magri
Forests 2023, 14(5), 1010; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14051010 - 13 May 2023
Viewed by 2394
Abstract
Species mapping methods play a central role in biogeographical questions, as they may generate a domino effect on further works based on species distribution. In light of the massive recent increase in the availability of online occurrence data, we highlight the strengths and [...] Read more.
Species mapping methods play a central role in biogeographical questions, as they may generate a domino effect on further works based on species distribution. In light of the massive recent increase in the availability of online occurrence data, we highlight the strengths and limitations of the mapping methods most widely used to display the geographic distribution of plants, namely geographic range maps and occurrence record maps. We use the modern distribution of the genus Arbutus in western Eurasia, North Africa, and Macaronesia, for which no occurrence record map has been published yet, to discuss critical issues in data collection and representation. The occurrence record map of A. unedo, A. andrachne, A. canariensis, and A. pavarii shows how well this mapping method captures the details of peripheral and isolated stands as well as the variability of population density. A number of biogeographical issues are addressed by this approach, including the determination of the chorological centre of gravity in relation to historical dynamics, genetic patterns in relation to range porosity, and the autochthony status of marginal stands. These issues constitute the necessary foundation for additional palaeobotanical research and ecological modelling to investigate the past-to-future dynamics of Arbutus and other species of the Mediterranean–Atlantic area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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18 pages, 20231 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Trait Variation in Seedlings of Rare Endemic Mexican Spruce Provenances under Nursery Conditions
by Christian Wehenkel, José Marcos Torres-Valverde, José Ciro Hernández-Díaz, Eduardo Mendoza-Maya, Artemio Carrillo-Parra, Santiago Solis-González and Javier López-Upton
Forests 2023, 14(4), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14040790 - 12 Apr 2023
Viewed by 1183
Abstract
The distributions of the three Mexican spruces are fragmented, possibly leading to phenological, morphological and genetic differentiation, which is partly caused by local adaptation. In this study, we estimated for the first time the intra- and inter-specific phenotypic variation in 5641 seedlings from [...] Read more.
The distributions of the three Mexican spruces are fragmented, possibly leading to phenological, morphological and genetic differentiation, which is partly caused by local adaptation. In this study, we estimated for the first time the intra- and inter-specific phenotypic variation in 5641 seedlings from provenances of the three Mexican spruces. We examined (i) provenance-related differences in the seedling survival rate, diameter (D), height (H) and seed weight (SW) as quantitative traits, (ii) the association between the survival rate, D, H and SW and climatic and soil variables in the Picea provenances and (iii) (narrow-sense) heritability (within-provenance) based on D and H under the same nursery conditions, assuming that the response can be considered as a proxy for quantitative genetic differentiation between provenances. All Mexican spruce species differed significantly in H, and all eight provenances studied were significantly different in D and H, except for two neighboring provenances of P. mexicana. Very strong, significant correlations (up to R2 = 0.96) were found between H, the survival rate and SW with respect to environmental factors of provenance/seed origin. Additionally, the heritability index explained a high percentage of the provenance-related variance. The use of germplasm for restoration in different sites and with different populations requires collecting seeds from numerous trees from as many provenances as possible, but should be carried out with caution owing to the apparently strong local adaptation in provenances of the Mexican spruces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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13 pages, 2504 KiB  
Article
Thinning Levels of Laurel Natural Regeneration to Establish Traditional Agroforestry Systems, Ecuadorian Amazon Upper Basin
by Álvaro Cañadas-López, Paul Gamboa-Trujillo, Santiago Buitrón-Garrido, Byron Medina-Torres, J. Jesús Vargas-Hernández and Christian Wehenkel
Forests 2023, 14(4), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14040667 - 23 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 947
Abstract
(1) Background: The Cordia alliodora (Ruiz & Pav.) Oken (laurel) natural regeneration management is a widespread practice among smallholders in the Amazon upper basin for the establishment of traditional agroforestry systems. This tree management approach is opposite to the development project proposals that [...] Read more.
(1) Background: The Cordia alliodora (Ruiz & Pav.) Oken (laurel) natural regeneration management is a widespread practice among smallholders in the Amazon upper basin for the establishment of traditional agroforestry systems. This tree management approach is opposite to the development project proposals that contemplate reforestation with nursery seedlings in the Amazon region. The present study evaluated the effects of thinning levels on the diameter and basal area increment of laurel in a traditional agroforestry system; (2) Methods: A randomized complete block design with three replications was used, and the target variables were the growth rate of diameter at breast height (DBH) and the basal area of trees. Twelve square field plots, 400 m² each, were established in a plot network covering a 1.0 km × 0.5 km area. Three thinning levels were applied: light, moderate, and intensive thinning; (3) Results: The traditional agroforestry system investigated was characterized by a marginal growth of laurel trees, with an average yield of 125.26 m3 ha−1 (±15.39) and MAI of 13.92 m3 ha−1 at 9 years of age with a tree density of 418 trees ha−1. The average value of the relation between the number of trees and the basal area removed (NG value) was 1.15, with small variation among plots, so all of them were thinned from below. The intensive thinning treatment, leaving 200 trees ha−1, caused the greatest annual increase in individual tree DBH (2.03 cm) and basal area (61.37 cm2) in both absolute and relative terms and improved tree height/diameter ratio; (4) Conclusions: Management of laurel natural regeneration for the establishment of traditional agroforestry systems could be improved by thinning at early ages, leaving 200 well-spaced laurel trees per ha. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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25 pages, 2326 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Vegetation Dynamics on Linear Features Using Airborne Laser Scanning and Ensemble Learning
by Narimene Braham, Osvaldo Valeria and Louis Imbeau
Forests 2023, 14(3), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14030511 - 05 Mar 2023
Viewed by 1348
Abstract
Linear feature networks are the roads, trails, pipelines, and seismic lines developed throughout many commercial boreal forests. These linear features, while providing access for industrial, recreational, silvicultural, and fire management operations, also have environmental implications which involve both the active and non-active portions [...] Read more.
Linear feature networks are the roads, trails, pipelines, and seismic lines developed throughout many commercial boreal forests. These linear features, while providing access for industrial, recreational, silvicultural, and fire management operations, also have environmental implications which involve both the active and non-active portions of the network. Management of the existing linear feature networks across boreal forests would lead to the optimization of maintenance and construction costs as well as the minimization of the cumulative environmental effects of the anthropogenic linear footprint. Remote sensing data and predictive modelling are valuable support tools for the multi-level management of this network by providing accurate and detailed quantitative information aiming to assess linear feature conditions (e.g., deterioration and vegetation characteristic dynamics). However, the potential of remote sensing datasets to improve knowledge of fine-scale vegetation characteristic dynamics within forest roads has not been fully explored. This study investigated the use of high-spatial resolution (1 m), airborne LiDAR, terrain, climatic, and field survey data, aiming to provide information on vegetation characteristic dynamics within forest roads by (i) developing a predictive model for the characterization of the LiDAR-CHM vegetation cover dynamic (response metric) and (ii) investigating causal factors driving the vegetation cover dynamic using LiDAR (topography: slope, TWI, hillshade, and orientation), Sentinel-2 optical imagery (NDVI), climate databases (sunlight and wind speed), and field inventory (clearing width and years post-clearing). For these purposes, we evaluated and compared the performance of ordinary least squares (OLS) and machine learning (ML) regression approaches commonly used in ecological modelling—multiple linear regression (mlr), multivariate adaptive regression splines (mars), generalized additive model (gam), k-nearest neighbors (knn), gradient boosting machines (gbm), and random forests (rf). We validated our models’ results using an error metric—root mean square error (RMSE)—and a goodness-of-fit metric—coefficient of determination (R2). The predictions were tested using stratified cross-validation and were validated against an independent dataset. Our findings revealed that the rf model showed the most accurate results (cross-validation: R2 = 0.69, RMSE = 18.69%, validation against an independent dataset: R2 = 0.62, RMSE = 20.29%). The most informative factors were clearing width, which had the strongest negative effect, suggesting the underlying influence of disturbance legacies, and years post-clearing, which had a positive effect on the vegetation cover dynamic. Our long-term predictions suggest that a timeframe of no less than 20 years is expected for both wide- and narrow-width roads to exhibit ~50% and ~80% vegetation cover, respectively. This study has improved our understanding of fine-scale vegetation dynamics around forest roads, both qualitatively and quantitatively. The information from the predictive model is useful for both the short- and long-term management of the existing network. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that spatially explicit models using LiDAR data are reliable tools for assessing vegetation dynamics around forest roads. It provides avenues for further research and the potential to integrate this quantitative approach with other linear feature studies. An improved knowledge of vegetation dynamic patterns on linear features can help support sustainable forest management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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17 pages, 5868 KiB  
Article
Estimating Above-Ground Biomass from Land Surface Temperature and Evapotranspiration Data at the Temperate Forests of Durango, Mexico
by Marcela Rosas-Chavoya, Pablito Marcelo López-Serrano, Daniel José Vega-Nieva, José Ciro Hernández-Díaz, Christian Wehenkel and José Javier Corral-Rivas
Forests 2023, 14(2), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14020299 - 03 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1863
Abstract
The study of above-ground biomass (AGB) is important for monitoring the dynamics of the carbon cycle in forest ecosystems. The emergence of remote sensing has made it possible to analyze vegetation using land surface temperature (LST), Vegetation Temperature Condition Index (VTCI) and evapotranspiration [...] Read more.
The study of above-ground biomass (AGB) is important for monitoring the dynamics of the carbon cycle in forest ecosystems. The emergence of remote sensing has made it possible to analyze vegetation using land surface temperature (LST), Vegetation Temperature Condition Index (VTCI) and evapotranspiration (ET) information. However, relatively few studies have evaluated the ability of these variables to estimate AGB in temperate forests. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship of LST, VTCI and ET with AGB in temperate forests of Durango, Mexico, regarding each season of the year and to develop a AGB estimation model using as predictors LST, VCTI and ET, together with topographic, reflectance and Gray-Level Co-Occurrence Matrix (GLCM) texture variables. A semi-parametric model was generated to analyze the linear and non-linear responses of the predictive variables of AGB using a generalized linear model (GAM). The results show that the best predictors of AGB were longitude, latitude, spring LST, ET, elevation VTCI, NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), slope and GLCM mean (R2 = 0.61; RMSE = 28.33 Mgha−1). The developed GAM model was evaluated with an independent dataset (R2 = 0.58; RMSE = 31.21 Mgha−1), suggesting the potential of this modeling approach to predict AGB for the analyzed temperate forest ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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20 pages, 6486 KiB  
Article
GIS-Based Geopedological Approach for Assessing Land Suitability for Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) Groves for Fruit Production
by Marco Rossi, Mauro De Feudis, William Trenti, Massimo Gherardi, Gilmo Vianello and Livia Vittori Antisari
Forests 2023, 14(2), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14020224 - 25 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1451
Abstract
The identification of mountainous areas suitable for chestnut stands for fruit production (CSFP) is raising increasing interest among researchers. This work aimed to (i) identify the areas suitable for CSFP shown in a land suitability map easy to read by land [...] Read more.
The identification of mountainous areas suitable for chestnut stands for fruit production (CSFP) is raising increasing interest among researchers. This work aimed to (i) identify the areas suitable for CSFP shown in a land suitability map easy to read by land planners, and (ii) propose a remote-sensing-based methodology able to identify the lands currently under cultivation for CSFP. This study was conducted using the QGIS software for the Municipality of Castel del Rio, Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy. To obtain the land suitability map, topographic, lithological, and pedological data were acquired, and the areas located between 200 and 1000 m of altitude, with north exposition, a slope < 20°, sandstone-based lithology, and soils with dystric features were selected. The currently cultivated areas for CSFP were identified through remote-sensing images of the early spring period, which were delineated and georeferenced. The findings showed that only 10% of the whole study site area can be considered suitable for CSFP. Further, most of the currently cultivated CSFP (59%) are in non-suitable areas characterised by high slope gradients. The methodology applied in this study can easily provide detailed information about the suitable areas for CSFP and the areas currently cultivated with chestnut, thus allowing accurate land-use planning and land conservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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11 pages, 2362 KiB  
Article
A Dynamical Model Based on the Chapman–Richards Growth Equation for Fitting Growth Curves for Four Pine Species in Northern Mexico
by Joao Marcelo Brazao Protazio, Marcos Almeida Souza, Jose Ciro Hernández-Díaz, Jonathan G. Escobar-Flores, Carlos Antonio López-Sánchez, Artemio Carrillo-Parra and Christian Wehenkel
Forests 2022, 13(11), 1866; https://doi.org/10.3390/f13111866 - 08 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2645
Abstract
Tree growth models describe the growth and development of forest ecosystems by considering how the dimensions of each simulated tree change within a certain time. These models have commonly used three growth parameters that describe various biological processes and behaviours, considering a sigmoid [...] Read more.
Tree growth models describe the growth and development of forest ecosystems by considering how the dimensions of each simulated tree change within a certain time. These models have commonly used three growth parameters that describe various biological processes and behaviours, considering a sigmoid growth function: (i) the upper asymptote (θ1), which is the maximal yield indicated by a final dimension (such as the maximal stem diameter); (ii) the maximum specific growth rate (θ2), defined as the slope of the tangent at the inflexion point; and (iii) the time elapsed (θ3), defined by the intercept of this tangent with the abscissas. To the best of our knowledge, however, associations between the three parameters have not been documented for tree species. Using diameter growth data from pine trees located in typical mixed and uneven-aged pine-oak forests in the Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico, our study aims were: (i) to quantify the putative associations between the three growth parameters and (ii) to test the accuracy of a proposed Hybrid Chapman-Richards growth model based on associations between the three growth parameters, but including only one single parameter, relative to the widely used Generalized Algebraic Difference Approach (GADA) based on the Chapman-Richards, Lundqvist and Hossfeld models and the Hybrid Weibull Model. For statistical comparison of the quality of the models, we used the mean relative percentage error, root mean square error, coefficient of determination and Akaike information criterion to assess the quality of the fit. Although the quality of the five growth models studied was similar, from a practical point of view, the proposed Hybrid Chapman-Richards Model (CR-H) is easier to apply than the other models and has a lower data collection and computational cost. The parameter of CR-H can be easily obtained, by measuring just the dominant trees, especially in coniferous forests with irregular ages. Moreover, in contrast to the Chapman-Richards-GADA factor χ0, when θ2 is assumed to be site-specific, the CR-H has always a closed-form solution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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13 pages, 4357 KiB  
Article
Field Trials to Assess the Growth, Survival, and Stomatal Densities of Five Mexican Pine Species and Their Hybrids under Common Plantation Conditions
by Ricardo Silas Sánchez-Hernández, Carmen Zulema Quiñones-Pérez, José Ciro Hernández-Díaz, José Ángel Prieto-Ruíz and Christian Wehenkel
Forests 2022, 13(11), 1791; https://doi.org/10.3390/f13111791 - 28 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1067
Abstract
Understanding hybridization is important for practical reasons, as the presence of hybrid trees in seed stands can influence the success of natural regeneration and reforestation. Hybridization creates new gene combinations, which can promote or enhance adaptation to new or changing environments. In the [...] Read more.
Understanding hybridization is important for practical reasons, as the presence of hybrid trees in seed stands can influence the success of natural regeneration and reforestation. Hybridization creates new gene combinations, which can promote or enhance adaptation to new or changing environments. In the present research, we aimed, for the first time, to evaluate and compare the growth and survival of 541 putative hybrid seedlings and 455 seedlings of the pure parental trees of Pinus arizonica, P. durangensis, P. engelmannii, P. leiophylla, and P. teocote, in two reciprocal trials of duration 27 months in the Sierra Madre Occidental (SMO), Durango, Mexico. We also examined the possible correlation between needle stomatal density and seedling growth and survival. The overall analysis of the data showed that the mean height to the apical bud was significantly higher (p = 0.01) in the hybrids than in the pure trees. Considering both trials, the survival rate of P. arizonica (p = 0.002) and P. durangensis (p = 0.01) hybrids was significantly higher than that of the pure trees. The growth parameters were significantly correlated with the mean stomatal density (p < 0.01). Stomatal density and survival at the seed stand level were significantly and positively correlated in the hybrids, but not in the pure trees. In summary, Pinus hybrids generally exhibited the same ability as the pure species (or sometimes a greater ability) to withstand weather conditions, survive, and grow effectively in both growth trials. The systematic use of natural pine hybrids in Mexico could therefore be considered a possible option for sustainable management and as a component of adaptive silviculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Distribution and Growth Dynamics of Tree Species)
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