Journal Description
Forests
Forests
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on forestry and forest ecology published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
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- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Forestry) / CiteScore - Q1 (Forestry)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Forests.
Impact Factor:
2.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Development of Integrated Control for Verticillium Wilt of Smoke Trees in Beijing
Forests 2024, 15(5), 776; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050776 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria) is an important ornamental tree that represents the autumnal landscape of red leaves in Northern China, especially in Beijing. However, Verticillium wilt, caused by the fungus (Verticillium dahliae), has resulted in a high mortality rate
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Smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria) is an important ornamental tree that represents the autumnal landscape of red leaves in Northern China, especially in Beijing. However, Verticillium wilt, caused by the fungus (Verticillium dahliae), has resulted in a high mortality rate for smoke trees, posing a serious threat to the highly valued landscape of red leaves in Beijing. To explore an efficient control measure for Verticillium wilt, we systematically analyzed the applicability and efficacy of multiple treatments for three consecutive years in Xiangshan Park and Badaling Forest Park. From 2021 to 2023, diseased smoke trees in Xiangshan Park were subjected to three application methods (agent irrigation, trunk injection, or a combination of the two) and five candidate agents, namely Bacillus subtilis, azoxystrobin, propiconazole, carbendazim, and prochloraz. Analyses of the data for three consecutive years revealed a decreasing trend in the annual disease incidence rate. Specifically, the combined application of agent irrigation and trunk injection exhibited the highest control effect and a significant improvement in the landscape of red leaves in Beijing. Furthermore, the combination of propiconazole via irrigation plus the trunk injection of carbendazim and prochloraz had the greatest control effect. These suppressive measurements were further used and demonstrated to be effective in Badaling Forest Park. Overall, our study provides an effective disease management means for controlling Verticillium wilt in smoke trees.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Forest Pests and Diseases II)
Open AccessArticle
Simultaneous Models for the Estimation of Main Forest Parameters Based on Airborne LiDAR Data
by
Wentao Zou, Weisheng Zeng and Xiangnan Sun
Forests 2024, 15(5), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050775 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to develop simultaneous models with universal applicability for the estimation of the main factors of forest stands based on airborne LiDAR data and to provide a reference for standardizing the approach and evaluation indices of main forest factor modeling. Using
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This study aimed to develop simultaneous models with universal applicability for the estimation of the main factors of forest stands based on airborne LiDAR data and to provide a reference for standardizing the approach and evaluation indices of main forest factor modeling. Using airborne LiDAR and field survey data from 190 sample plots in spruce (Picea spp.), fir (Abies spp.), and spruce–fir mixed forests in Northeast China, the simultaneous models for estimating the main factors of forest stands were developed. To develop the models, the relationships between mean tree height, stand basal area, stand volume, and the main metrics of the LiDAR data and the correlations between eight quantitative factors of forest stands were considered, and the error-in-variable simultaneous equations approach was employed to fit the models. The results showed that the mean prediction errors (MPEs) of eight forest stand factors estimated by the simultaneous models were mostly within 5%, and only the MPE of the number of trees per hectare exceeded 5%. The mean percentage standard errors (MPSEs) of the estimates, including the mean diameter at the breast height (DBH), mean tree height, and mean dominant tree height, were within 15%; the MPSEs of the estimates of the stand basal area, volume, biomass, and carbon stock per hectare were within 25%; and only the MPSE of the estimated number of trees per hectare exceeded 30%. The coefficients of determination (R2) of the core prediction models for the volume, biomass, and carbon storage were all greater than 0.7. It can be concluded that estimating the main factors of forest stands based on the combination of LiDAR and field survey data is technically feasible, and the simultaneous models developed in this study for the estimation of the eight main stand factors of spruce–fir forests can meet the precision requirements of forest resource inventory, except for the number of trees, indicating that the models can be applied in practice.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Remote Sensing and Visualization Methods: Monitoring, Modeling, Simulations and Interaction of Forest Resource)
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Open AccessArticle
Dynamics of Carbon and Water Fluxes over Cropland and Agroforest Ecosystems on the Southern Chinese Loess Plateau
by
Xiaoyang Han, Fengru Fang, Chenyun Bai, Kang Du, Yuanjun Zhu and Wenzhao Liu
Forests 2024, 15(5), 774; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050774 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Studies on the spatiotemporal dynamics in ecosystem carbon and water exchanges are essential in predicting the effects of climate change on regional carbon and energy budgets. Using the eddy covariance technique, carbon and water fluxes were observed in a typical winter wheat ecosystem
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Studies on the spatiotemporal dynamics in ecosystem carbon and water exchanges are essential in predicting the effects of climate change on regional carbon and energy budgets. Using the eddy covariance technique, carbon and water fluxes were observed in a typical winter wheat ecosystem (WWE) and an agroforest ecosystem (AFE) in the southern Loess Plateau from 2004 to 2010. The seasonal and inter-annual variability in gross primary productivity (GPP), net ecosystem exchange (NEE), evapotranspiration (ET), and water use efficiency (WUE) were examined and the main influencing factors were identified using the Pearson correlation. The results indicate that the seasonal GPP and NEE showed a bimodal distribution in WWE, while this was unimodal in AFE. The sinusoidal function did well in the characterization of seasonal ET dynamics for both ecosystems, with the determination coefficients being 0.85 and 0.94, respectively. In WWE and AFE, the annual mean GPP were 724.33 and 723.08 g C m−2 a−1, respectively, and the corresponding ET were 392.22 and 410.02 mm a−1. However, the difference in NEE between the two ecosystems was obvious, NEE were −446.28 and −549.08 g C m−2 a−1, respectively, showing a stronger carbon sink in AFE. There were strong coupling relationships between the GPP and ET of both ecosystems; the overall slopes were 1.71 and 1.69, respectively. The seasonal trend of WUE was bimodal in WWE, with peak values of 3.94 and 3.65 g C kg−1 H2O, occurring in November and April, respectively. However, the monthly WUE in AFE had one single peak of 4.07 g C kg−1 H2O in January. Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) and soil temperature (Ts) were most positively correlated with GPP, net radiation (Rn) and Ts were the major factors influencing ET, while vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and soil water content (SWC) were the major influencing factors for WUE. These results provide observational support for regional carbon neutrality simulations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Carbon in Forest Ecosystems)
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Open AccessArticle
A Study on Endogenous Inhibitors of Nitraria roborowskii Kom. Seeds
by
Shangfu Ren, Lamei Jiang and Guanghui Lv
Forests 2024, 15(5), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050773 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Nitraria roborowskii Kom. seeds have deep dormancy characteristics. Under natural conditions, the germination rate of the seeds is low, and the germination time is long. Therefore, exploring the reasons for seed dormancy is highly important. The results showed that the extracts of the
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Nitraria roborowskii Kom. seeds have deep dormancy characteristics. Under natural conditions, the germination rate of the seeds is low, and the germination time is long. Therefore, exploring the reasons for seed dormancy is highly important. The results showed that the extracts of the methanol phase, ethyl acetate phase, petroleum ether phase and water phase of N. roborowskii seeds all had a significant inhibitory effect on the germination rate and germination index of Brassica rapa seeds, among which the extract of the methanol phase had the strongest inhibitory effect, and the inhibitory effect decreased in the following order from the strongest to the weakest: methanol phase > ethyl acetate phase > petroleum ether phase > water phase. The components of the methanol phase, ethyl acetate phase and petroleum ether phase ether extracts of N. roborowskii seeds were identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The experimental results showed that the organic phase extracts of N. roborowskii seeds contained a variety of inhibitory compounds, which included 4H-pyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-dibutyl phthalate; 4-((1E)-3-hydroxy-1-propenyl)-2-methoxyphenol; 13-docosenamide, (Z)-; 3-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzoic acid; vanillin; 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol; and cyclohexane, ethyl-. The seeds of N. roborowskii contain a variety of endogenous inhibitors, which are the main reason for its seed dormancy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
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Open AccessArticle
Molecular Detection of Phytophthora cinnamomi by RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a-Mediated Isothermal Amplification
by
Xiaoqiao Xu, Tingting Dai, Qin Xiong, Jing Yang, Jiahui Zang and Tingli Liu
Forests 2024, 15(5), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050772 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Phytophthora cinnamomi is one of the soil-borne pathogens that causes root rot and stem rot in many plants globally. P. cinnamomi has serious economic, social, and environmental impacts, threatening natural ecosystems and biodiversity. Methods: In this study, a molecular detection method based
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Background: Phytophthora cinnamomi is one of the soil-borne pathogens that causes root rot and stem rot in many plants globally. P. cinnamomi has serious economic, social, and environmental impacts, threatening natural ecosystems and biodiversity. Methods: In this study, a molecular detection method based on Recombinant polymorphic amplification (RPA) combined using the CRISPR/Cas12a system was developed for P. cinnamomi. The method was found to be highly specific for P. cinnamomi. Results: The results showed that 10 P. cinnamomi isolates were positive; however, 21 Phytophthora species, 4 Phytopythium species, 18 fungal species, and 2 Bursaphelenchus species were negative. In total, 10 pg·µL−1 of P. cinnamomi genomic DNA can be detected. The detection process is performed within 20 min at 37 °C, which makes it fast and convenient for use. Discussion: In conclusion, the RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a system in this study is a promising tool for the rapid and sensitive detection of P. cinnamomi in plant samples.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Scientific Developments in Forest Pathology)
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Open AccessArticle
Altitudinal Variation in Species Diversity, Distribution, and Regeneration Status of a Secondary Picea Forest in Guandi Mountain, Northern China
by
Mengtao Zhang, Zhuoyue Liu, Zhaohui Yang, Huanhuan Shen, Jin Wang and Xiaogang Wu
Forests 2024, 15(5), 771; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050771 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Altitude plays a crucial role in shaping the diversity and distribution of species in forest landscapes in mountainous regions. However, existing studies often lack comprehensive analysis of the intricate relationships among environmental factors, disturbances, and species diversity. This study aims to address this
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Altitude plays a crucial role in shaping the diversity and distribution of species in forest landscapes in mountainous regions. However, existing studies often lack comprehensive analysis of the intricate relationships among environmental factors, disturbances, and species diversity. This study aims to address this gap by thoroughly analyzing major species’ diversity, distribution, and regeneration status, along with their influencing factors, across different altitudinal gradients (1850 to 2350 m). Field surveys were conducted to examine the major species in different vegetation layers of the secondary Picea forest in Guandi Mountain. The key findings from the study include the following: (1) the study area recorded a total of nine species of adult trees, belonging to eight genera in five families, fourteen species of shrubs from eight genera in five families, and fifty-two herb species representing forty-eight genera in twenty-six families. Dominant species varied across layers, with Picea asperata Mast. and Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr. dominating the arborous layer, Lonicera ferdinandii Franch. and Cotoneaster acutifolius Turcz. in the shrub layer, and Poa pratensis L. and Duchesnea indica (Andrews.) Focke in the herb layer. (2) Altitude significantly influenced species diversity, with the most pronounced effects observed in the shrub and herb layers. (3) Tree species regeneration varied with altitude, with Picea asperata exhibiting the highest regeneration performance, particularly in the high-altitude zone (2250–2350 m). Regeneration parameters were significantly correlated with species diversity indices in both tree and shrub layers. (4) Redundancy analysis revealed that, apart from altitude, cutting (p = 0.015) influenced the species diversity of the tree layer, while annual precipitation (p = 0.006) and temperature (p = 0.01) determined the diversity of the shrub layer. Grazing (p = 0.042) was identified as a determining factor for species diversity in the herb layer. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the sustainable management of forest ecosystems in the study area and offer practical guidance for forest management in similar mountainous landscapes worldwide.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecological Dynamics of Tropical Forests: Structure, Species Richness and Regeneration)
Open AccessArticle
The Effect of Wet and Dry Cycles on the Strength and the Surface Characteristics of Coromandel Lacquer Coatings
by
Wenjia Liu, Ling Zhu, Varodi Anca Maria, Xinyou Liu and Jiufang Lv
Forests 2024, 15(5), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050770 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Research on the degradation mechanism of coating materials is crucial for the preservation of cultural heritage. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of Coromandel coatings on wooden substrates by analyzing their dimensions, weight, adhesion strength, hydrophobicity, and glossiness.
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Research on the degradation mechanism of coating materials is crucial for the preservation of cultural heritage. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of Coromandel coatings on wooden substrates by analyzing their dimensions, weight, adhesion strength, hydrophobicity, and glossiness. The results indicate that after five cycles, the radial moisture expansion rate of the wood specimen is 0.332%, while that of the lacquer specimen is 0.079%, representing 23.8% of the radial moisture expansion rate of untreated wood specimens. This performance is superior to that of the ash and pigment specimens. Across different experimental conditions, the change in the mass of the Coromandel specimens aligns with the trend in their dimensional changes, indicating that moisture absorption and desorption are the primary reasons for dimensional changes. The influence of temperature on mass and dimensional stability is significant only in terms of dry shrinkage rate. After wet and dry cycles at 40 °C, the adhesion strength of the Coromandel specimens decreases the most, with the ash specimens decreasing by 7.2%, the lacquer specimens by 3.2%, and the pigment specimens by 4.5%. Following wet and dry cycles at three different temperatures, the contact angle of the lacquer layers changes by less than 5%, with their contact angle values exceeding 120°. These data indicate that among the Coromandel coatings, the lacquer layer provides the best protection for the wooden substrate, while the ash coating is the most fragile. The degradation rate of the Coromandel specimens increases with rising temperatures. These findings emphasize the critical roles of humidity and temperature in protecting wooden coatings and aim to provide theoretical insights and practical significance for the preservation of wooden artifacts and the assessment of coating performance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical and Mechanical Properties of Wood- and Bamboo-Based Materials)
Open AccessArticle
Study on the Mechanism of Exogenous 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA) in Regulating the Photosynthetic Efficiency of Pear Leaves
by
Xinqing Wang, Jianting Zhang and Liangju Wang
Forests 2024, 15(5), 769; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050769 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
To provide a theoretical basis for the application of ALA in pear production, the effects of exogenous 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) treatment on leaf photosynthetic gas exchange parameters, chlorophyll fast fluorescence properties, and relative expression of the related genes were investigated using pear (
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To provide a theoretical basis for the application of ALA in pear production, the effects of exogenous 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) treatment on leaf photosynthetic gas exchange parameters, chlorophyll fast fluorescence properties, and relative expression of the related genes were investigated using pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai cv. ‘Whasan’) as a material in the study. The results show that exogenous ALA treatment improved the photosynthetic gas exchange parameters of pear leaves, upregulated the expression of multiple key genes which are related to ALA biosynthesis, metabolism, and transformation into chlorophylls. GUS staining in tobacco leaves showed that exogenous ALA activated the promoter activity of PypHEMA and PypCHLH genes, implying that the synthesis of endogenous ALA and chlorophylls was promoted by exogenous ALA. Furthermore, ALA promoted the expression of the genes encoding photosystem II (PSII) reaction center proteins, such as core protein D1, inner light-harvesting pigment proteins CP43 and CP47, and cytochrome b559. This led to increased PSII reaction center activity. In addition, ALA alleviated the donor side oxygen-evolving complex inhibition and reduced the closure rate on the receptor side, allowing for increased photochemical electron transfer and reduced heat dissipation while improving the photosynthetic performance index PIabs and PItotal. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of ALA’s promotion of plant photosynthetic efficiency, providing valuable insights for further research and potential applications in pear production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
Open AccessCommunication
Do Sonic Tomography and Static Load Tests Yield Comparable Values of Load-Bearing Capacity?
by
Steffen Rust and Andreas Detter
Forests 2024, 15(5), 768; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050768 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
We tested the hypothesis that the loss of load-bearing capacity, as estimated by means of static load tests and from sonic tomography, is comparable. This is of practical importance for arborists when they have to assess results reported by different consultants or when
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We tested the hypothesis that the loss of load-bearing capacity, as estimated by means of static load tests and from sonic tomography, is comparable. This is of practical importance for arborists when they have to assess results reported by different consultants or when they have to choose between applying one of these two methods in a specific case. A total of 59 trees, primarily Fagus sylvatica and Quercus robur, were subjected to static load tests and sonic tomography. The pulling test method yielded the residual stiffness of the stem at every position tested with a strain sensor as an intermediate quality parameter used to merely validate the actual estimations of safety against fracture. Based on the shape of the parts of the stem cross-section that are considered load bearing, sonic tomograms can be further processed in order to assess the loss of load-bearing capacity from defects like decay. We analyzed the correlation of these biomechanically equivalent parameters. This was only the case to a very limited extent. Sonic tomography and static load tests cannot replace each other, but they can complement each other.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tree Stability and Tree Risk Analysis)
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Open AccessReview
Roe Deer, Lithuania’s Smallest and Most Abundant Cervid
by
Linas Balčiauskas
Forests 2024, 15(5), 767; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050767 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
A review of 113 scientific and other publications on the smallest and most abundant deer in Lithuania, the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), is presented, along with an analysis based on compound annual population growth rates of population numbers, hunting bags, and
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A review of 113 scientific and other publications on the smallest and most abundant deer in Lithuania, the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), is presented, along with an analysis based on compound annual population growth rates of population numbers, hunting bags, and roadkill. This review covers the species’ history in the country from the last glaciation onwards, the changes in numbers from 1934 to 2023, hunting bag changes from 1965 to 2022, roadkill numbers from 2002 to 2022, data on roe deer reproduction, habitat selection, genetic diversity, pathogens, and damage to forest stands. It also provides an overview of species management and selection for trophies. Despite the exponential increase in roe deer numbers since 1990 and the dominance of this species in roadkill, even on urban roads, the number and density of animals and the damage they cause to forest stands are relatively low compared to other European countries. Within the observed period, drops in numbers were related to harsh winters in 1969/1970 and 1995/1996. Poaching, especially coinciding with weakened enforcement during the period of political–economic transition in the early 1990s, has also had a negative impact on population numbers, as have recent increases in the number of large predators. Population growth over the recent period does not correlate with hunting mortality, which has remained stable at an average of 16.9% since 2002.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wildlife Ecology and Conservation in Forest Habitats)
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Open AccessArticle
Distribution Dynamics of Diplopanax stachyanthus Hand.-Mazz. (Mastixiaceae) and Its Implications in Relict Mastixioid Flora Conservation
by
Menglin Chen, Yongjingwen Yang, Lin Lin, Yunhong Tan, Min Deng and Yunjuan Zuo
Forests 2024, 15(5), 766; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050766 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Climate is a key driver shaping the distribution pattern of organisms. Cenozoic climate change has led to extensive biota turnover. Untangling the distribution dynamics of a representative lineage of flora can provide deep insights into biodiversity conservation. Diplopanax is a notable relict lineage
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Climate is a key driver shaping the distribution pattern of organisms. Cenozoic climate change has led to extensive biota turnover. Untangling the distribution dynamics of a representative lineage of flora can provide deep insights into biodiversity conservation. Diplopanax is a notable relict lineage of the Tertiary mastixioid flora with abundant fossils in the Northern Hemisphere. Diplopanax stachyanthus Hand.-Mazz. is a representative relic lineage of the mastixioid flora, which was once widespread in the Northern Hemisphere of the early Tertiary period, but with only endemic distribution in the (sub)tropical humid forests of East Asia. It offers a unique chance to understand how climatic drivers shape the Boreotropical flora. In this research, we investigated the distribution dynamics of D. stachyanthus at the last glacial maximum (LGM), mid-Holocene (MH), current, and three periods of the future (2041–2060, 2061–2080, and 2081–2100) at four shared socio-economic emissions scenarios pathways. Our results indicated that the Precipitation of the Wettest Quarter (32.6%), the Precipitation of the Driest Quarter (21.2%), and the Precipitation of the Coldest Quarter (17.3%) are the key factors affecting its distribution. The current high suitable distribution areas are primarily in southern China and northern Indo-China. The enforced winter monsoon seasons in East Asia since the late Pliocene period are the key climatic drivers reducing its once widespread distribution in the Northern Hemisphere. Under future scenarios, centroid transfer analysis suggests that its distribution center will shift southwestward, but the potentially suitable habitats in the coastal regions of southern China and northern Indo-China will be lost. These coastal populations should be prioritized for ex situ conservation. Expanding the nature reserve within its long-term stable distribution range in southwest China is an effective strategy for the in situ conservation of the ancient mastixioid flora.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Species Distribution, Diversity and Growth under Climate Change)
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Open AccessCommunication
Structural and Successional Dynamics of Old-Growth Mixed Oak Forests in the West Qinling Mountains
by
Qi Lian, Rina Sa, Wenzhen Liu and Zhonghua Zhao
Forests 2024, 15(5), 765; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050765 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Understanding the composition and structure of forest trees is crucial to comprehending the properties and functions of forests. It also helps in implementing effective management strategies for sustainable resource utilization. Our study analyzed the structural dynamics of the old-growth mixed oak forests in
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Understanding the composition and structure of forest trees is crucial to comprehending the properties and functions of forests. It also helps in implementing effective management strategies for sustainable resource utilization. Our study analyzed the structural dynamics of the old-growth mixed oak forests in the Xiaolongshan Forest region, focusing on three long-term monitoring plots (A, B, C). We examined the tree species composition, diameter distribution, mortality, and recruitment dynamics of different successional species groups, as well as the spatial distribution patterns of living and dead trees, with surveys conducted every five years. The findings indicate: (1) Plot A experienced a decline in stand density and species diversity during the survey period, with the Importance Value Index (IVI) of pioneer successional species continually decreasing in plots B and C. (2) The tree diameter distribution structure in plot A significantly differed from other plots, showing notable change between 2007 and 2012. (3) All plots exhibited lower, well-balanced community-level demographic parameters based on stem number, but a higher recruitment rate for later successional species groups based on basal area. (4) Dead individuals in plot A had a slight clustering distribution, while the other plots showed a random distribution. We conclude that the individual growth rate significantly impacts the dynamics of the natural Quercus aliena var. acuteserrata forest, with pioneer species groups being gradually replaced by early or late-successional species groups in the succession process.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protection, Ecological Restoration and Sustainable Management of Natural Forest: Theory and Technology)
Open AccessArticle
The Influence of Maturity, Storage, and Embryo Size on Coconut Callus Induction Success
by
Zhihua Mu, Shuya Yang, Hang Xu, Zhuang Yang, Mirza Mobashwerul Haque, Binh-Minh Tran, Jiepeng Chen, Xingwei Wang, Hui Peng and Jie Luo
Forests 2024, 15(5), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050764 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Coconut palms (Cocos nucifera L.) are globally significant palms with both economic and cultural value. Despite the increasing demand for coconut products, production is decreasing globally due to palm senility, pests, and diseases. It has been estimated that over half of the
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Coconut palms (Cocos nucifera L.) are globally significant palms with both economic and cultural value. Despite the increasing demand for coconut products, production is decreasing globally due to palm senility, pests, and diseases. It has been estimated that over half of the world’s coconut palms need to be replaced immediately. The coconut industry has acknowledged that conventional propagation methods are unlikely to yield sufficient high-quality planting material. Therefore, coconut tissue culture is considered a potential solution to this problem. By using coconut tissue culture, a large number of plantlets can be obtained in a short period of time. In this study, the quality of explants and the development stage (visible shoot/non-visible shoot) of coconut used for micropropagation were examined. To our knowledge, little research has been undertaken on this aspect of coconut micropropagation. Our results indicated that tender coconut fruit exhibited an advantage over mature fruits. In addition, coconut plumule explants subjected to an extended storage of 15 days demonstrated enhanced development compared to those without storage. Notably, smaller embryos utilized as explants displayed superior callus formation compared to their larger counterparts. Finally, embryos possessing shoots exhibited improved callus initiation, albeit accompanied by a more pronounced browning effect. Further investigations are required to obtain more knowledge about the most suitable conditions for plumule explants that lead to optimal callus initiation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Somatic Embryogenesis and Other Vegetative Propagation Technologies)
Open AccessArticle
The Genetic Diversity of Natural Ilex chinensis Sims (Aquifoliaceae) Populations as Revealed by SSR Markers
by
Sixuan Hou, Peng Zhou, Yanming Fang, Xuejie Wang, Min Zhang and Qiang Zhang
Forests 2024, 15(5), 763; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050763 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Ilex chinensis Sims. is an evergreen tree species native to China and mainly distributed in the region south of the Qinling Mountains and the Huai River. This species has important ornamental, medicinal, ecological, and economic values, and plays a positive role in improving
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Ilex chinensis Sims. is an evergreen tree species native to China and mainly distributed in the region south of the Qinling Mountains and the Huai River. This species has important ornamental, medicinal, ecological, and economic values, and plays a positive role in improving the environment and people’s lives. To reveal the genetic diversity and genetic structure of 401 individuals from 14 populations in the major distribution area of I. chinensis, 11 pairs of SSR primers were selected for PCR amplification. The products were then subjected to capillary electrophoresis, and the genetic diversity of Ilex individuals was analyzed using relevant software. The results showed that the genetic diversity of I. chinensis was at a moderate-to-high level. A total of 54 alleles were detected at 11 SSR loci in the 14 Ilex populations, with an average of 4.831 alleles per locus. AMOVA analysis indicated that the genetic variation of I. chinensis populations mainly originated within populations. A STRUCTURE analysis divided the 401 I. chinensis individuals into four different genetic clusters. The unweighted pair group methods using arithmetic averages (UPGMA) clustering based on Nei’s genetic distance revealed that the population from Xinping of Yuxi, Yunnan Province (XP), and the population from Longan of Qianxinan, Guizhou Province (LoA) were located in the outermost layer of the phylogenetic tree, indicating the furthest genetic relationship between these two population and other populations. The remaining populations could be roughly divided into two groups. Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) demonstrated that the 401 individuals were clearly divided into three groups, which was consistent with the results of the STRUCTURE analysis and UPGMA clustering. This study identified the hotspots of genetic diversity of I. chinensis, as well as units for the conservation of individuals. It also revealed the patterns of genetic variation and population distribution of I. chinensis in different regions, providing a molecular basis for the geographical zoning and formulation of breeding programs for I. chinensis, as well as germplasm resource management.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics and Molecular Biology)
Open AccessArticle
Bamboo Structure and Its Impact on Mechanical Properties: A Case Study of Bambusa arundinaceae
by
Kangjian Zhang, Linpeng Yu, Fukuan Dai, Yuxuan Chen, Zehui Jiang, Youhong Wang and Genlin Tian
Forests 2024, 15(5), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050762 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Bamboo is a naturally occurring composite material, which exhibits a decomposable structure with varying composition. The distinct structural features of bamboo contribute to its exceptional strength and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for construction purposes. However, only a limited portion of bamboo
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Bamboo is a naturally occurring composite material, which exhibits a decomposable structure with varying composition. The distinct structural features of bamboo contribute to its exceptional strength and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for construction purposes. However, only a limited portion of bamboo species has been studied for its mechanical properties, and research on Bambusa arundinaceae has primarily focused on its pharmaceutical values. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between the structural characteristics of B. arundinaceae and its mechanical properties using axial compression experiments and tangential bending experiments. The results showed that the distribution density of vascular bundles (VBs) of B. arundinaceae ranged from 1.98 to 4.34 pcs/mm2,while the volume fraction of fiber sheaths (FSs) ranged from 35.82 to 42.58%. The average compressive strength, flexural strength, and flexural elasticity modulus were 113.99 MPa, 239.07 MPa, and 17.39 GPa, which were 97.56%, 64.07%, and 66.09% higher than those of moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), respectively. The compressive strength, flexural strengths, and elasticity modulus of B. arundinaceae were positively correlated with both the distribution density of VBs and the volume fraction of FSs. These insights are crucial for the advancement of durable and efficient materials in diverse sectors including construction and manufacturing.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wood Quality and Mechanical Properties)
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Consecutive Pruning Enhances Leaf Flavonoids, Leaf Yield, and Cutting Rooting in Ginkgo biloba
by
Lei Zhong, Shiyuan Xu, Shuwen Xu, Wanxiang Zhou, Zhaogeng Lu, Biao Jin and Li Wang
Forests 2024, 15(5), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050761 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba L. is a valuable medicinal plant known for its high content of flavonoids and terpenoids in the leaves of young trees. Pruning can increase leaf yield in ginkgo plantations; however, it is unclear how the intensity of pruning affects leaf yield
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Ginkgo biloba L. is a valuable medicinal plant known for its high content of flavonoids and terpenoids in the leaves of young trees. Pruning can increase leaf yield in ginkgo plantations; however, it is unclear how the intensity of pruning affects leaf yield and quality. In addition, G. biloba exhibits low cutting rooting rates, which limits its efficiency in asexual propagation. In our study, we compared consecutive pruning with varying levels of intensity, including top pruning, light pruning, and heavy pruning, to evaluate the effects of pruning on leaf yield and cutting rooting. The results showed that these three pruning methods all contributed to an increase in the number of new branches, the leaf weight, and the flavonoid content in five-year-old trees. Among them, the effect of light pruning was the best, with a 150% increase in branch number, a 130% increase in leaf weight, and a 40.6% increase in flavonoid content. The secondary pruning further increased leaf area by 22.3%, indicating that secondary pruning further enhanced the rejuvenation of plants and increased leaf yield. At the transcriptional level, pruning can significantly change the expression of genes related to bud sprouting, resulting in a particularly significant increase in SHR expression in the buds. Pruning also promoted the expression of important genes related to flavonoid synthesis, including chalcone synthase (CHS), flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H), flavonol synthase (FLS), and dihydroflavonol reductase (DFR). Furthermore, we demonstrated a significant increase in the rooting rate of these second-pruned branch cuttings and screened the optimal hormone ratio for rooting, which is 1.5 μM MeJA + 400 mg/L NAA + 100 mg/L Uniconazole-P. These results suggest that secondary pruning can effectively rejuvenate plants to promote cutting rooting in G. biloba. This method can not only be used to improve the yield and quality of ginkgo leaves, but also for cutting propagation.
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(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
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Riparian Forests as Nature-Based Solutions within the Mediterranean Context: A Biophysical and Economic Assessment for the Koiliaris River Watershed (Crete, Greece)
by
Mauro Masiero, Giorgia Bottaro, Caterina Righetti, Nikolaos P. Nikolaidis, Maria A. Lilli and Davide Pettenella
Forests 2024, 15(5), 760; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050760 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Mediterranean Basin is severely impacted by anthropogenic changes affecting both natural ecosystems and human livelihoods. The region is highly vulnerable to natural hazards, with floods being considered the most important, due both to their frequency and impacts. Koiliaris watershed (northwest of Crete
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The Mediterranean Basin is severely impacted by anthropogenic changes affecting both natural ecosystems and human livelihoods. The region is highly vulnerable to natural hazards, with floods being considered the most important, due both to their frequency and impacts. Koiliaris watershed (northwest of Crete Island, Greece) represents a relevant case study as past land-use changes via deforestation and intense cultivation practices induce soil organic matter losses, making soils susceptible to water erosion and desertification. The restoration of native riparian forests has been identified as the most effective nature-based solution (NBS) for the area. Through modeling, our study assessed the effectiveness of this NBS in addressing flood risk and erosion while providing additional ecosystem services (carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation). A cost–benefit analysis has been then implemented to also investigate the sustainability of the investment from an economic point of view. Our results show the NBS would be successful in ensuring a better flow of targeted ecosystem services compared to the business-as-usual conditions. The associated investment would result in economic sustainability and associated costs would be paid back in five years. Though site-specific, our study provides lessons learned for dealing with future land-restoration challenges in the Mediterranean to cope with climate change-related challenges.
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(This article belongs to the Section Forest Economics, Policy, and Social Science)
Open AccessArticle
Zinc-Enhanced Regulation of the Ginkgo biloba L. Response and Secondary Metabolites
by
Jingjing Zhang, Yixuan Luo, Huifeng Hou, Pengfei Yu, Jing Guo and Guibin Wang
Forests 2024, 15(5), 759; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050759 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba L. leaves are rich in secondary metabolites with important medicinal values; to increase their contents, foliar spraying of micronutrients is a potential strategy. Zinc, a multifunctional element, has a significant impact on the content of secondary metabolites in other plants, but
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Ginkgo biloba L. leaves are rich in secondary metabolites with important medicinal values; to increase their contents, foliar spraying of micronutrients is a potential strategy. Zinc, a multifunctional element, has a significant impact on the content of secondary metabolites in other plants, but relevant research into ginkgo is still lacking. In our study, different spraying time and concentration strategies were used to investigate the effects of zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) on physiological indicators and secondary metabolites of 2-year-old ginkgo. The results demonstrated that ZnSO4 could increase the contents of hydrogen peroxide, abscisic acid, and free amino acids in ginkgo leaves. It also enhances the antioxidant enzyme activity of ginkgo leaves, decreases the content of plant auxin, and ultimately facilitates the accumulation of ginkgo terpene lactones (TTL). Spraying ZnSO4 in June resulted in a more significant increase in the contents of TTL and flavonoids compared to spraying in August. After spraying 12 mmol/L ZnSO4 in June, the contents of TTL and flavonoids in ginkgo leaves were significantly elevated by 35.95% and 24.30%, respectively, compared to those in the CK (p < 0.05). The contents of ginkgolide A, B, and C were notably increased by 45.93%, 46.56%, and 74.29%, respectively, compared to those in the CK (p < 0.05). Therefore, our study suggests that the optimal timing for spraying ZnSO4 on ginkgo is in June, with a recommended concentration of 12 mmol/L. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the accumulation of secondary metabolites in ginkgo and guides the production of its leaf-utilization plantations.
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(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
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Effects of Illumination Conditions on Individual Tree Height Extraction Using UAV LiDAR: Pilot Study of a Planted Coniferous Stand
by
Tianxi Li, Jiayuan Lin, Wenjian Wu and Rui Jiang
Forests 2024, 15(5), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050758 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Tree height is one of the key dendrometric parameters for indirectly estimating the timber volume or aboveground biomass of a forest. Field measurement is time-consuming and labor-intensive, while unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-borne LiDAR is a more efficient tool for acquiring tree heights of
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Tree height is one of the key dendrometric parameters for indirectly estimating the timber volume or aboveground biomass of a forest. Field measurement is time-consuming and labor-intensive, while unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-borne LiDAR is a more efficient tool for acquiring tree heights of large-area forests. Although individual tree heights extracted from point cloud data are of high accuracy, they are still affected by some weather and environment factors. In this study, taking a planted M. glyptostroboides (Metasequoia glyptostroboides Hu & W.C. Cheng) stand as the study object, we preliminarily assessed the effects of various illumination conditions (solar altitude angle and cloud cover) on tree height extraction using UAV LiDAR. The eight point clouds of the target stand were scanned at four time points (sunrise, noon, sunset, and night) in two consecutive days (sunny and overcast), respectively. The point clouds were first classified into ground points and aboveground vegetation points, which accordingly produced digital elevation model (DEM) and digital surface model (DSM). Then, the canopy height model (CHM) was obtained by subtracting DEM from DSM. Subsequently, individual trees were segmented based on the seed points identified by local maxima filtering. Finally, the individual tree heights of sample trees were separately extracted and assessed against the in situ measured values. As results, the R2 and RMSEs of tree heights obtained in the overcast daytime were commonly better than those in the sunny daytime; the R2 and RMSEs at night were superior among all time points, while those at noon were poorest. These indicated that the accuracy of individual tree height extraction had an inverse correlation with the intensity of illumination. To obtain more accurate tree heights for forestry applications, it is best to acquire point cloud data using UAV LiDAR at night, or at least not at noon when the illumination is generally strongest.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Individual Tree Detection (ITD) and Its Applications)
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Can Cooperatives Enhance the Income-Generating Effect of Eco-Industries for Farmers?—Empirical Evidence from the Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve, China
by
Li Ma, Zimeng Chen, Kaiwen Su, Han Zhang, Yali Wen and Yilei Hou
Forests 2024, 15(5), 757; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050757 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Promoting the development of eco-industries plays a significant role in achieving the harmonious symbiosis between economic growth and environmental protection as well as enhancing the comprehensive effectiveness of ecological and economic benefits. Due to their unique nature, cooperatives may play a crucial role
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Promoting the development of eco-industries plays a significant role in achieving the harmonious symbiosis between economic growth and environmental protection as well as enhancing the comprehensive effectiveness of ecological and economic benefits. Due to their unique nature, cooperatives may play a crucial role in facilitating the integration between farmers and the development of eco-industries. To investigate whether cooperatives possess the capacity to enhance the income-generating effects for farmers involved in eco-industries, this study selected the Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve (CINNR), a representative area for eco-industry development, as the research site. Data were gathered through face-to-face interviews, and this research empirically analyzed the impact of cooperatives on the income-generating effect of farmers using endogenous switching regression (ESR). The findings are threefold. First, cooperatives indeed enhance the income-generating effects for farmers engaged in eco-industries. Second, variables such as the distribution of agroforestry materials, premium capacity, soil quality, and status of village cadres have a positive impact on farmers joining cooperatives, whereas punishment initiatives discourage their participation. Third, for farmers who have joined cooperatives, factors such as the distribution of agroforestry materials, premium capacity, low-cost conservation initiatives, land area, status of village cadres, the proportion of labor force, technical training, soil quality, and land area positively affect their income from eco-industries. Conversely, punishment initiatives, age, and land location negatively impact their income. The results of this study provide new ideas for farmers to participate in the development of eco-industries, new evidence showing co-operatives can improve farmers’ income, and new directions for coordinating conflicts between conservation and development in protected areas.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Forest Management, Utilization and Biodiversity Conservation)
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