Can the functional stability of forest ecosystems be evaluated from the spatial analysis of stands? A case study from the Bialowieza Primeval Forest (Poland)

Abstract

Variability of external and internal factors entails specific spatial patterns and functional dynamics of communities. The study of the oak-lime-hornbeam (Quercus robur-Tilia cordata-Carpimus) forest in the Bialowieza Primeval Forest supports the concept of silvatic unit, determining the minimal structural area. To find out if the dynamics of a stand can be inferred from its spatial pattern, and to compare the structural properties of natural and managed hardwoods, detailed mapping of developmental phases in natural and managed stands was performed. While the mosaic composition in Bialowieza National Park indicates a stable character of the natural oak-lime hornbeam forest, the managed forest reveals a considerable deficit of optimal and senescent phases and simplification of the mosaic texture. An absolute ban on cutting in remaining old-growth stands should be a basic rule for restoration management.

Parent Publication

• Integrated tools for natural resources inventories in the 21st century

Citation

Bobiec, Andrzej. 2000. Can the functional stability of forest ecosystems be evaluated from the spatial analysis of stands? A case study from the Bialowieza Primeval Forest (Poland). In: Hansen, Mark; Burk, Tom, eds. Integrated tools for natural resources inventories in the 21st century. Gen. Tech. Rep. NC-212. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station. 248-257.