Natural regeneration patterns of Fagus sylvatica L. in canopy gaps of a low-elevation European beech forest in central Italy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12899/asr-2710Keywords:
Seedlings, saplings, treefall gap, old-growth forests, thermophilic beech forest, linear mixed modelsAbstract
Understanding natural regeneration in European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forests is crucial for sustainable management and climate adaptation. This study compared natural regeneration and gap characteristics in two central Italian forests: Bassano Romano, with recent management, and Monte Raschio, a UNESCO-protected old-growth site. Regeneration density was significantly higher in Bassano Romano, likely due to progressive canopy openings from shelterwood management, while Monte Raschio showed greater broadleaved species diversity, suggesting gap-driven regeneration. Despite similar mean gap sizes (~500 m²), Monte Raschio exhibited higher variability. Regeneration was denser along warmer, sunnier gap edges, confirming microclimatic influences. The medium- and small-size gaps seems to favour the regeneration in both forest area, most likely because they can create the best conditions for beech natural regeneration. Indeed, regeneration height increased up to medium-sized gaps (~500 m²). The results of the linear mixed model indicate that the two different forests significantly influence the variance as a random effect.
The findings of this study suggest how shelterwood systems may reinforce beech dominance and how gap-cutting fosters species diversity, highlighting the need for a nuanced approach that balances regeneration goals with biodiversity conservation. Adaptive management emerges as a critical tool to ensure the long-term resilience and functional stability of temperate forests.
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