APVV-24-0057

APVV-24-0057

The Importance of Dead Wood for Forest Ecosystems of the Western Carpathians: Confirmation or Disproving of Ecological Myths / IMPODEA

Anotácia:

Ongoing climate change and associated negative phenomena are increasing the frequency and extent of widespread disturbances and tree mortality in forest ecosystems. One of the consequences is the gradual increase in the volume of deadwood in Slovak forests. Thus, the proportion of deadwood in the total carbon stock is increasing in forest ecosystems. Many researchers have demonstrated the high ecological value of deadwood. We will focus on quantifying the volume of deadwood, assessing its properties, and analyzing its effects on the forest environment in selected areas of Slovakia. We will particularly focus on three tree species: European beech (Fagus sylvatica), Norway spruce (Picea abies), and birch species (Betula spp.). Beech and spruce are the primary tree species in Slovakia, while birch is not considered as commercially significant but it is very. common in post-disturbance areas. The research will concentrate on two forest developmental stages: i) the state following silvicultural interventions, ii) the forest extinction and subsequent regeneration. In both cases, part of deadwood remains in the forest environment. For selected areas, we will quantify the volume of deadwood in different forms (fallen logs, stumps, and belowground parts) and determine its composition based on decomposition stage (using a five-stage scale). The duration of deadwood presence will also be considered to estimate decomposition rates while accounting for external factors. We will examine wood density, chemical properties (e.g. carbon content), and the water retention capacity of deadwood. These characteristics will be analyzed in the context of decomposition stages and tree species. Alongside traditional methods, we will employ modern approaches such as photogrammetric surveys using drones and image analysis with AI. The research will yield scientific insights into ecology and production ecology, along with a knowledge base for the optimal management of deadwood, considering level.