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.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Ei Compendex, GEOBASE, PubAg, AGRIS, PaperChem, and other databases.
- 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
Global Overview of the Application of the Braun-Blanquet Approach in Research
Forests 2024, 15(6), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060937 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Environmental classifications are of paramount importance for assessing the impacts of land-use changes, for prioritizing conservation efforts, and for developing effective management strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of human activities. The aim of our research was to provide as complete an analysis
[...] Read more.
Environmental classifications are of paramount importance for assessing the impacts of land-use changes, for prioritizing conservation efforts, and for developing effective management strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of human activities. The aim of our research was to provide as complete an analysis as possible of the studies that have been carried out using the Braun-Blanquet approach. The global review of studies based on the Braun-Blanquet approach includes 1168 papers and was conducted using the PRISMA 2009 methodological recommendations, strict criteria for the selection/quality of papers, and modern methods of data analysis and visualization using VOSviewer software developed by Nees Jan van Eck and Ludo Waltman (Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS) of Leiden University in the Netherlands) (version 1.6.18), which ensures a representative sample, minimization of subjective judgements, and reliability of conclusions. It was noted that the number of publications on Braun-Blanquet is growing exponentially. This is an indication of the scientific interest in this methodology and its continuous further development. Based on a detailed analysis of the keywords, the main research directions and challenges are identified. These include improving the conceptual and methodological foundations of the Braun-Blanquet approach; improvement in regional vegetation classifications, synthesizing them and producing a comprehensive classification for large areas as a basis for biodiversity conservation and sustainable land use; expansion of the geography; compilation and updating of databases of phytosociological data; management of dynamics and vegetation; discussion of the important problem of continuity and discreteness of vegetation in the context of ecological classifications; and vegetation mapping. The top 20 journals publishing the most cited articles were identified, as well as the top 20 most cited journals whose high citation rate is due to the large number of high-quality articles. The analysis of the bibliographic network of papers in dynamics has shown that the structure of relationships is not constant and has changed significantly. The analysis of the authors’ publication activity showed that the vast majority of researchers have a low publication activity and have published only one to three papers. A peculiarity also emerges: if all the most cited authors are concentrated in Eurasia, then most of the most actively published authors are outside Eurasia. The importance of the Braun-Blanquet approach for the study and classification of forest vegetation should be emphasized. In this case, the Braun-Blanquet approach is integrated into forest typologies, increasing their ecological validity and environmental relevance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indicators and Baselines of Afforestation and Reforestation)
Open AccessArticle
Forest Worker Households in the NFPP: Enhancing Sustainable Livelihoods through Capital and Transformation
by
Bo Yu, Bo Cao and Hongge Zhu
Forests 2024, 15(6), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060936 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The persistent conflict between strict conservation and community welfare highlights the growing need to address sustainable livelihoods in forest protection programs. The Natural Forest Protection Program (NFPP) is a comprehensive forest protection program spearheaded by the Chinese government. It is designed to facilitate
[...] Read more.
The persistent conflict between strict conservation and community welfare highlights the growing need to address sustainable livelihoods in forest protection programs. The Natural Forest Protection Program (NFPP) is a comprehensive forest protection program spearheaded by the Chinese government. It is designed to facilitate the conservation and restoration of forest ecosystems through a range of interventions, including logging ban, management, tending, and afforestation efforts. Drawing upon longitudinal micro-level household survey data spanning five consecutive years from 2017 to 2021, this research quantifies the sustainable livelihood levels of frontline participants in the NFPP by examining two dimensions: livelihood capital stock and livelihood transformation capacity. Additionally, it investigates the internal differentiation phenomenon within this cohort. The findings suggest that forest worker households engaged in tasks related to forest management, tending, and afforestation are the frontline participants in the NFPP, in contrast to management, technical, and service personnel. Moreover, these forest worker households exhibit a pattern characterized by a higher livelihood capital stock but a lower livelihood transformation capacity compared to non-forest worker households. Furthermore, within forest worker households, there is a significant group differentiation phenomenon, resulting in inter-group differentials in the sustainable livelihood levels based on geographical and seniority stratification criteria. The developers of the global forest protection program should prioritize addressing the sustainable livelihood issues of frontline participants in the program, especially the real problem of mismatches between livelihood capital stock and livelihood transformation capacity. This can be achieved through designing income incentives, stimulating consumption, and other means to enhance the relatively disadvantaged position of frontline participants while balancing the coordination and fairness of the protection program based on the aspects of both protection and development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forests as Nature-Based Solutions: Ecosystem Services, Multiple Benefits, and Trade-Offs)
Open AccessArticle
Stochastic Optimization of the Management Schedule of Korean Pine Plantations
by
Qianping Tong, Xingji Jin, Timo Pukkala, Lihu Dong and Fengri Li
Forests 2024, 15(6), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060935 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Korean pine is one of the most important tree species in northeastern China, where Korean pine plantations produce timber and edible seeds. Often, seeds create more income than timber. Predicting the timber and cone yields of alternative management schedules of the plantations involves
[...] Read more.
Korean pine is one of the most important tree species in northeastern China, where Korean pine plantations produce timber and edible seeds. Often, seeds create more income than timber. Predicting the timber and cone yields of alternative management schedules of the plantations involves uncertainty because the future climatic conditions for tree growth and cone production are unknown. This study developed a simulation model that generates stochastic variation around the predictions of tree growth and cone yield models, allowing the forest manager to seek cutting schedules that maximize the expected amounts of timber or cones, or the expected economic profit, under uncertain future states of nature. Stochastic analysis also facilitates management optimizations for different risk attitudes. The differential evolution algorithm and the developed stochastic simulation model were used to optimize the management of planted Korean pine. Timber and cone yields of a management schedule were calculated under 100 different scenarios for tree growth and cone production. When the growth and cone yield scenarios were stationary (no temporal trends), the optimal management schedules were similar to those of deterministic optimization. The benefits of stochastic optimization increased when it was assumed that the tree growth scenarios may contain climate-change-induced trends. Non-stationary growth variation led to shorter optimal rotation lengths than stationary growth variation. Increasing risk tolerance shortened optimal rotations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecology and Management)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus in Guangdong, Guangxi, and Jiangsu Provinces in China
by
Yuan Feng, Wenjing Jian, Xiaolei Ding and Jianren Ye
Forests 2024, 15(6), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060934 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the genetic structures of pine wood nematodes (PWNs, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner & Buhrer) Nickle)), in Guangdong (GD), Guangxi (GX), and Jiangsu (JS) Provinces (the major PWN dispersal centers). Furthermore, we also explored potential migration routes among the
[...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the genetic structures of pine wood nematodes (PWNs, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner & Buhrer) Nickle)), in Guangdong (GD), Guangxi (GX), and Jiangsu (JS) Provinces (the major PWN dispersal centers). Furthermore, we also explored potential migration routes among the different provinces in order to provide insights into the epidemic source of PWNs in the three provinces in China. We re-sequenced a total of 241 PWNs collected from the above provinces using next-generation sequencing to obtain raw genomic data. Bioinformatics analysis was used to identify the SNPs, genetic structures, and selective sweeps of the PWNs. The results indicate that the PWNs from these three provinces can be classified into five groups (A, B, C, D, and E), among which the genetic variations are significant. All PWN strains from JS were exclusively found in Group A. The PWNs in Groups B and C were composed of strains from GD and GX, while Groups D and E comprised only GD strains. Introgression analysis identified two possible pathways: (1) from Group A to Group B-GX and (2) from Group E to Group D. Selective sweep analysis showed that in Groups B and C, the candidate genes of Group B were mainly related to pectin lyase activity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics and Molecular Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Applicability Evaluation of Modified Epoxy Resin in the Repair and Reinforcement of Ancient Building Timber Members
by
Xu Han, Shuangyong Wang, Lei Huang and Haibin Zhou
Forests 2024, 15(6), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060933 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
To investigate the potential of modified epoxy resin for repairing and strengthening historical wooden structures, this study utilized polyurethane and silicone-modified epoxy resin as the base, alongside a polyamine curing agent. The resin mixture was cured at ambient temperature, resulting in the creation
[...] Read more.
To investigate the potential of modified epoxy resin for repairing and strengthening historical wooden structures, this study utilized polyurethane and silicone-modified epoxy resin as the base, alongside a polyamine curing agent. The resin mixture was cured at ambient temperature, resulting in the creation of ten unique epoxy resin systems. Investigation into the chemical structure and alterations to the glass transition temperature were conducted. The study conducted tests and characterization of viscosity, curing rate, mechanical properties, stress failure mode, hygrothermal aging resistance, and bonding properties. The results reveal that the curing degree of the two modified epoxy resins is high after being cured at room temperature, and the chemical structure and curing rate show insignificant changes. The range of the glass transition temperature for the modified epoxy resin is between 61.31 °C and 70.51 °C. The incorporation of polyurethane and silicone molecular chains into the epoxy resin cross-linking curing system enhances the toughness of the epoxy resin. The modified resin achieves a maximum elongation at break that is 5.18 times greater than that of the unmodified resin, along with a maximum tensile strength and a compressive strength that are 7.94 and 1.74 times, respectively, higher than those in the Chinese technical specifications for the maintenance and reinforcement of ancient wooden structures. The increase in toughness changes the failure mode of the cured epoxy resin. The modified epoxy resin exhibits great bonding ability to aged wood, with a shear strength of up to 9.6 MPa along the grain. As a result, the modified epoxy resin meets the requirements for the reinforcement and repair of the timber members of ancient buildings.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wood Science and Forest Products)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Study on Preparation Optimization Technology and Surface Properties of Decorated Bamboo Filament Board
by
Hui Li, Meiling Chen, Yongjie Bao, Xiao Wang, Jie Gao, Yu Li, Junzhang Li and Chengjian Huang
Forests 2024, 15(6), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060932 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
To further improve the manufacturing process and product performance of decorated bamboo filament board, the Box–Behnken response surface analysis method was used to analyze the correlation between the hot-pressing parameters and surface bonding strength, and the optimal process optimization parameters were obtained. In
[...] Read more.
To further improve the manufacturing process and product performance of decorated bamboo filament board, the Box–Behnken response surface analysis method was used to analyze the correlation between the hot-pressing parameters and surface bonding strength, and the optimal process optimization parameters were obtained. In addition, the wettability and color of each group of samples were tested. The results show that the optimum process parameters of decorated bamboo filament boards were 130 °C, 165 s and 2.00 MPa, and the surface bonding strength was 1.58 MPa. The relative error between the measured value and the predicted value was less than 5%. The contact angle of the bamboo filament after hot pressing was higher than without hot pressing. However, there was no correlation between wettability and the hot-pressing parameters. There was no effect on the change in bamboo surface color. This indicates that the temperature range selected in this study meets the requirements of surface color control in production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wood Science and Forest Products)
Open AccessArticle
Response of Rhododendron simsii and Rhododendron delavayi Superoxide Dismutase Family Genes to High-Temperature Stress
by
Xingmin Geng, Li Hua, Jiyi Gong, Yin Yi, Ming Tang and Fanyu Ceng
Forests 2024, 15(6), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060931 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are the first line of defense in the antioxidant defense system, and they play an essential role in various adversity stress adaptations in Rhododendron. In this study, 9 Rhododendron simsii SODs (RsSODs) and 11 Rhododendron delavayi SODs
[...] Read more.
Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are the first line of defense in the antioxidant defense system, and they play an essential role in various adversity stress adaptations in Rhododendron. In this study, 9 Rhododendron simsii SODs (RsSODs) and 11 Rhododendron delavayi SODs (RdSODs) genes were identified in the genomes of R. simsii and R. delavayi. Phylogenetic relationship analysis classified SOD proteins from two Rhododendron species and other related species into three subfamilies. The results of gene structure and conserved motif analysis show that SOD proteins are strongly evolutionarily conserved, and SODs of the same subfamily have similar motif distributions, positions, and lengths. Twenty-two light-responsive elements, eight phytohormone regulatory elements, five adversity stress-related elements, and three growth and development regulatory elements were detected in the RsSOD and RdSOD promoters. Quantitative real-time fluorescence polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that among the 20 candidate genes, except for RdCSD5, the other SODs were expressed in at least one of four tissues, and all of these gene family members had high expression levels in the leaves. We then investigated the response of the RsSOD and RdSOD gene families to high-temperature stress in combination with the following specific stressors: abscisic acid, ethephon, and hydrogen peroxide treatments, followed by high-temperature stress. Different degrees of upregulated expression of the detected SOD gene family members were found for exogenous reagent treatments and different times of high-temperature stress. Thus, we provide a basis for the further functional characterization of SOD genes in R. simsii and R. delavayi in the future.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis for the Genetic Improvement of Forest Plants)
Open AccessArticle
Impacts of Deep-Rooted Apple Tree on Soil Water Balance in the Semi-Arid Loess Plateau, China
by
Wei Xiang, Bingcheng Si, Huijie Li, Min Li, Jinxi Song and Yulu Tian
Forests 2024, 15(6), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060930 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Partitioning soil water balance (SWB) is an effective approach for deciphering the impacts of vegetation change on soil hydrological processes. Growing apple trees on the Loess Plateau, China, leads to a substantial deep soil water deficit, posing a serious threat to the sustainable
[...] Read more.
Partitioning soil water balance (SWB) is an effective approach for deciphering the impacts of vegetation change on soil hydrological processes. Growing apple trees on the Loess Plateau, China, leads to a substantial deep soil water deficit, posing a serious threat to the sustainable development of apple production. However, the impact of deep-rooted apple trees on SWB remains poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a “Paired Plot” experiment to achieve this objective by decoupling SWB components using water stable isotopes, tritium, and soil water contents from deep soil cores (up to 25 m) under apple orchards with a stand age gradient of 8–23 years. The results showed that deep soil water storage under apple orchards was notably reduced compared to nearby farmland, showing a stand age-related pattern of deep soil water deficit (R2 = 0.91). By analyzing the changing patterns of SWB components, we found that the main factor driving this deficit is the water uptake process controlled by the deep root system. This process is triggered by the increased transpiration demand of apple trees and short-term water scarcity. These findings have implications for understanding soil water dynamics, sustainable agroforestry management, and soil water resources’ protection in this region and other similar water-limited areas.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Soil)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Differences in Tree Species Classification between Typical Forest Regions in Northern and Southern China
by
Jia Zhang, Hao Li, Jia Wang, Yuying Liang, Rui Li and Xiaoting Sun
Forests 2024, 15(6), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060929 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Focusing on the trend of continuously seeking high-precision tree species classification results in small areas from the perspectives of sensors and classification algorithms. This study aimed to explore the effects of data sources, classifiers, and seasons on classification accuracy in regions with significant
[...] Read more.
Focusing on the trend of continuously seeking high-precision tree species classification results in small areas from the perspectives of sensors and classification algorithms. This study aimed to explore the effects of data sources, classifiers, and seasons on classification accuracy in regions with significant environmental variation, examining patterns of tree species classification to enhance the transferability of classification. Considering two typical forest distribution regions in the north and south of China, this study utilized the revisitation cycle and open-source advantages of Sentinel-2 and Landsat-8. Leveraging the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform, this study captured spectral features, vegetation indices, and texture features for single seasonal and seasonal combination images. With the assistance of Sentinel-1A and SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) DEM (Digital Elevation Model), backscattering coefficient features and topographical features were extracted and input with features captured from Sentinel-2 and Landsat-8 into three types of classifiers: random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and gradient tree boosting (GTB) for major tree species classification. In this research, we discovered that the best classification for single season in the northern study area was spring, whereas, for the southern study area, it was winter. Seasonal combination images effectively improved the classification accuracy of single seasonal images, with Sentinel-2 imagery displaying better classification performance compared to Landsat-8, and the optimal classifier differing between the north and the south. The inclusion of topographical or backscattering coefficient features in the four-season combination imagery contributed to improvements in classification accuracy, with topographical features significantly enhancing the classification performance in the topographically varied southern study area. The evaluation of feature importance indicated that elevation was the most critical feature for classification, while spectral features and vegetation indices were also significant. In the southern study area with large topographical discrepancies, subdividing into different terrain units led to improved tree species classification accuracy in medium-altitude, gentle slope areas. These findings provide insights into the regularity of enhancing tree species classification accuracy in environmentally diverse areas through the use of multi-source remote sensing data and multi-seasonal imagery. Consequently, the results offer a reference for the identification of tree species across large areas and the creation of spatial distribution maps.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Study of Forest Landscape Development Based on Geospatial Technologies)
Open AccessArticle
Nature-Based Solutions to Reduce Air Pollution: A Case Study from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Using Trees, Herbs, Mosses and Lichens
by
Slaveya Petrova, Iliana Velcheva and Bogdan Nikolov
Forests 2024, 15(6), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060928 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Nature-based solutions (NBSs) are becoming more and more recognized as useful instruments to address the challenges that urban areas are currently facing, i.e., climate change adaptation, flood mitigation, etc. In the present study, we aimed to: (1) compare the efficiency of mosses, lichens,
[...] Read more.
Nature-based solutions (NBSs) are becoming more and more recognized as useful instruments to address the challenges that urban areas are currently facing, i.e., climate change adaptation, flood mitigation, etc. In the present study, we aimed to: (1) compare the efficiency of mosses, lichens, herbs and trees in removing pollutants from the urban air using their biomonitoring potential; (2) assess their efficiency as nature-based solutions to mitigate urban air pollution; and (3) propose a framework for implementing such NBSs in urban areas. The first step involved analyses of the concentrations of 20 potentially toxic elements in eight selected biomonitors. After that, an assessment of their removal capacity was made on the basis of elements accumulation. This is the first complex study in an urban area involving the simultaneous application of organisms of eight different species and four different systematic groups (lichenized fungi, mosses, herbaceous plants, woody species) as well as such a large number of potentially hazardous elements. The present study sheds new light on some well-known biomonitors in the context of their application for air pollution mitigation. The great potential of the eight studied plant species for efficient removal of potentially toxic elements is highlighted and their implementation into NBS frameworks is recommended.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances on the Influence of Vegetation and Forest on Urban Air Quality and Thermal Comfort—Series II)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Unraveling Forest Practice Policies in China: Subnational Comparisons through Policy Prescriptiveness Framework
by
Yimin Fu, Yixian Sun, Jinlong Liu, Benjamin William Cashore and Wenyuan Liang
Forests 2024, 15(6), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060927 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Forest policy classification is critical to conducting comparisons and understanding performance variations across cases. Chinese-style forest policy has been in a black box to many outsiders, who tend to assume a decentralization policy model due to a great diversity of forest and socio-economic
[...] Read more.
Forest policy classification is critical to conducting comparisons and understanding performance variations across cases. Chinese-style forest policy has been in a black box to many outsiders, who tend to assume a decentralization policy model due to a great diversity of forest and socio-economic conditions in China. To test this hypothesis, we used the policy prescriptiveness framework to classify on-the-ground forest practice policies in central government and eight provinces, covering extensive territorial variations. We found that the eight subnational cases that implemented local policies appeared to be consistent with central policies, but there were also subtle differences within them. Our findings show that China utilized centralized and top-down policy models.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Forest Management, Utilization and Biodiversity Conservation)
Open AccessArticle
Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of the CYP450 Family Associated with Triterpenoid Saponin in Soapberry (Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn.)
by
Chunyuan Zheng, Mingzhu Zhou, Jialin Fan, Yuhan Gao, Yuanyuan Xu, Liming Jia, Xinmin An, Zhong Chen and Lianchun Wang
Forests 2024, 15(6), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060926 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Soapberry (Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn.) is a tree species of the family Sapindaceae, the pericarp of which is rich in triterpenoid saponins, which are important in chemical production, biomedicine, and other fields. Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP450) is involved in the modification of the
[...] Read more.
Soapberry (Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn.) is a tree species of the family Sapindaceae, the pericarp of which is rich in triterpenoid saponins, which are important in chemical production, biomedicine, and other fields. Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP450) is involved in the modification of the skeletons of triterpenoid saponins and is linked to their diversity. We previously identified 323 CYP450 genes in the transcriptome of soapberry and screened 40 CYP450 genes related to the synthesis of triterpenoid saponins by gene annotation and conserved structural domain analysis. The genetic structure and phylogeny of the CYP450 genes were analyzed separately. Phylogenetic analysis categorized the CYP450 genes of soapberry into five subfamilies, the members of which had similar conserved cumulative sequences and intron structures. A cis-acting element analysis implicated several genes in the responses to environmental changes and hormones. The expression of several genes during eight periods of fruit development was analyzed by real-time quantitative qRT-PCR; most showed high expression during the first four periods of fruit development, and their expression decreased as the fruits matured. A co-expression network analysis of SmCYP450s and related genes in the triterpenoid saponin synthesis pathway was performed. Correlation analysis showed that 40 SmCYP450s may be involved in saponin synthesis in soapberry. The triterpenoid saponin synthesis-related candidate genes identified in this study provide insight into the synthesis and regulation of triterpenoid saponins in soapberry.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Utilizing Multi-Source Data and Cloud Computing Platform to Map Short-Rotation Eucalyptus Plantations Distribution and Stand Age in Hainan Island
by
Xiong Yin, Mingshi Li, Hongyan Lai, Weili Kou, Yue Chen and Bangqian Chen
Forests 2024, 15(6), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060925 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Short-rotation eucalyptus plantations play a key positive role in the forestry economy due to their fast-growing and high-yielding properties. However, some studies have suggested that eucalyptus plantations introductions may have negative impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems’ stability. In order to precisely and promptly
[...] Read more.
Short-rotation eucalyptus plantations play a key positive role in the forestry economy due to their fast-growing and high-yielding properties. However, some studies have suggested that eucalyptus plantations introductions may have negative impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems’ stability. In order to precisely and promptly determine the influence of eucalyptus plantations on soil characteristics and hydrological processes, based on the rotation change rules of eucalyptus plantations, this study combined the continuous change detection and classification and spectral mixture analysis (CCDC-SMA) algorithm and the random forest (RF) algorithm to map the distribution and stand age of short-rotation eucalyptus plantations in Hainan Island. First, the forest distribution map was used to mask out the rubber plantations, and forest disturbances were extracted through the CCDC-SMA algorithm to determine the potential short-rotation eucalyptus plantations distribution. Second, using CCDC-SMA algorithm fitting coefficients, field surveys, original spectral bands, vegetation indices, and digital elevation models (DEM) as inputs to the RF algorithm, short-rotation eucalyptus plantations distribution maps were created and evaluated based on Google Earth images. Finally, the stand age of the newly mapped short-rotation eucalyptus plantations was estimated based on the breakpoints of the CCDC-SMA algorithm. The results showed that the producer, user, and overall accuracies of the 2022 short-rotation eucalyptus plantations map were estimated at 0.95, 0.95, and 0.94, respectively, and the validation R2 of the estimated stand ages was at 0.97. The eucalyptus plantations in Hainan Island had a total area of roughly 9.93 × 104 ha in 2022. Danzhou City had the highest planting area of eucalyptus plantations, followed by Changjiang County, Chengmai County, and Lingao County. It was worth noting that the eucalyptus plantations were mostly located in places with low altitudes (<200 m) and flat slopes (<10°). Approximately 43.91% of eucalyptus plantations were located in the three major watersheds. In addition, the 1-year-old eucalyptus plantations accounted for the highest areal percentage of 30.58%. These datasets are valuable tools to aid sustainable production, ecological assessment, and conservation of eucalyptus plantations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Ecosystem Services: Modelling, Mapping and Valuing)
Open AccessArticle
Stand Structure and Functional Traits Determine Productivity of Larix principis-rupprechtii Forests
by
Jing Zhang, Ming Li, Ruiming Cheng, Zhaoxuan Ge, Chong Liu and Zhidong Zhang
Forests 2024, 15(6), 924; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060924 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Forest productivity (FP) depends not only on tree species diversity but also on functional traits, stand structure, and environmental factors; however, causation and relative importance remain controversial. The effects of tree species diversity (species richness), trait community-weighted mean (CWM), forest structure (forest density
[...] Read more.
Forest productivity (FP) depends not only on tree species diversity but also on functional traits, stand structure, and environmental factors; however, causation and relative importance remain controversial. The effects of tree species diversity (species richness), trait community-weighted mean (CWM), forest structure (forest density and maximum DBH), and environmental factors (soil nutrients and elevation) on larch (Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr) forests’ productivity were investigated, and the relative importance of each factor in determining productivity was quantified. Our results showed that stand structure and functional traits had significant positive effects on the basal area increment (BAI) of larch stands (p < 0.05) and were more important than tree diversity and environmental factors in explaining BAI variations. The contribution ratio of each influencing factor was as follows: stand structure (59%), functional composition (30%), environmental factors (9%), and species diversity (SD) (2%). The biomass ratio hypothesis was more important than the niche complementarity hypothesis in explaining the relationship between species diversity and productivity. The structural equation model showed that environmental factors did not directly affect the BAI in larch forests but indirectly affected the BAI through tree diversity and stand structure. Therefore, in larch forests with low species richness, it is more important to adjust stand structure to maintain overyielding while also considering the influence of environmental factors.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecology and Management)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Framework to Create Inventory Dataset for Disaster Behavior Analysis Using Google Earth Engine: A Case Study in Peninsular Malaysia for Historical Forest Fire Behavior Analysis
by
Yee Jian Chew, Shih Yin Ooi, Ying Han Pang and Zheng You Lim
Forests 2024, 15(6), 923; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060923 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
This study developed a comprehensive framework using Google Earth Engine to efficiently generate a forest fire inventory dataset, which enhanced data accessibility without specialized knowledge or access to private datasets. The framework is applicable globally, and the datasets generated are freely accessible and
[...] Read more.
This study developed a comprehensive framework using Google Earth Engine to efficiently generate a forest fire inventory dataset, which enhanced data accessibility without specialized knowledge or access to private datasets. The framework is applicable globally, and the datasets generated are freely accessible and shareable. By implementing the framework in Peninsular Malaysia, significant forest fire factors were successfully extracted, including the Keetch–Byram Drought Index (KBDI), soil moisture, temperature, windspeed, land surface temperature (LST), Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI), Normalized Vegetation Index (NDVI), landcover, and precipitation, among others. Additionally, this study also adopted large language models, specifically GPT-4 with the Noteable plugin, for preliminary data analysis to assess the dataset’s validity. Although the plugin effectively performed basic statistical analyses and visualizations, it demonstrated limitations, such as selectively dropping or choosing only relevant columns for tests and automatically modifying scales. These behaviors underscore the need for users to perform additional checks on the codes generated to ensure that they accurately reflect the intended analyses. The initial findings indicate that factors such as KBDI, LST, climate water deficit, and precipitation significantly impact forest fire occurrences in Peninsular Malaysia. Future research should explore extending the framework’s application to various regions and further refine it to accommodate a broader range of factors. Embracing and rigorously validating large language model technologies, alongside developing new tools and plugins, are essential for advancing the field of data analysis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Managing Forest Wildfires in Climate Changes: New Paradigms and Challenges)
Open AccessArticle
Climate–Growth Relationships of Mongolian Pine (Pinussylvestris var. mongholica) along an Altitudinal Gradient of Northeast China
by
Xinrui Wang, Zhaopeng Wang, Dongyou Zhang, Taoran Luo, Xiangyou Li, Bingyun Du and Shubing Zhong
Forests 2024, 15(6), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060922 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
To study the radial growth of Mongolian pine (Pinus sylvestris var. mongholica, MP) trees in response to climatic factors against the global warming background in the northeast part of the Greater Khingan Mountains (GKM), 101 tree cores were collected at contrasting altitudes
[...] Read more.
To study the radial growth of Mongolian pine (Pinus sylvestris var. mongholica, MP) trees in response to climatic factors against the global warming background in the northeast part of the Greater Khingan Mountains (GKM), 101 tree cores were collected at contrasting altitudes (1100 and 650 m) in the Mordoga area, a tree-ring width chronology of MP was established for that region at both altitudes, and the relation between climatic factors and ring width trends at different time scales was investigated. The results revealed four major findings. (1) The ring width chronology of MP in the low-altitude area has better quality. (2) The growth of MP at high (low) altitude was mainly influenced by temperature (precipitation) factors. (3) Before a sudden change in temperature, there was a decreasing trend in the annual indices of MPs at higher altitudes. The chronological coefficients of MPs at both altitudes showed a significant upward trend after the increase in temperature. (4) The sliding analysis results showed that the stability of the relationship between MP growth and its response to climatic factors at both altitudes was also mostly similar. MP growth is relatively stable and sensitive and to climatic factors as temperatures increase.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Meteorology and Climate Change)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Response of Soil Microbial Community Structure and Diversity to Mixed Proportions and Mixed Tree Species in Bamboo–Broad-Leaved Mixed Forests
by
Meiman Zhang, Fengying Guan, Shaohui Fan and Xuan Zhang
Forests 2024, 15(6), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060921 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Bamboo and broad-leaved mixed forests have been widely recognized for their advantages in maintaining ecological balance, improving soil fertility, and enhancing biodiversity. To understand the effects of mixed broad-leaved tree species and mixing ratios on soil microbial communities in bamboo and broad-leaved mixed
[...] Read more.
Bamboo and broad-leaved mixed forests have been widely recognized for their advantages in maintaining ecological balance, improving soil fertility, and enhancing biodiversity. To understand the effects of mixed broad-leaved tree species and mixing ratios on soil microbial communities in bamboo and broad-leaved mixed forests, we quantified the structure and diversity responses of soil microbial communities to tree species and mixing ratios using high-throughput sequencing of the 16 S rRNA gene. Three bamboo and broad-leaved tree mixed forests were studied, including bamboo–Castanopsis chinensis Hance mixed forest (CCB), bamboo–Alniphyllum fortune (Hemsl.) Makino mixed forest (AFB), and bamboo–Choerospondias axillaris (Roxb.) B. L. Burtt & A. W. Hill mixed forest (CAB). We assessed the impact of tree species and mixing ratios on soil microbial communities by measuring soil properties and the diversity and composition of soil microbes. The results indicate that soil properties and the diversity and composition of microbial communities are highly dependent on broad-leaved tree species in mixed forests. The mixing ratios had a more pronounced effect on microbial diversity than on richness. In CAB, diversity peaked at mixing ratios of 10%–20% and 20%–40%. The presence of broad-leaved trees significantly altered the relationships among soil bacteria, with CAB showing the highest stability, likely due to the increased diversity and quantity of litter from Choerospondias axillaris. Our results show that the choice of broad-leaved tree species and their mixing ratios significantly influence soil microbial diversity and composition in bamboo–broad-leaf mixed forests. An optimal mixing ratio in CAB can maximize bacterial diversity and stability, providing insights for forest management and promoting ecosystem health and sustainability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecological Functions of Bamboo Forests: Research and Application—2nd Edition)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Floristic Diversity and Green-Tree Retention in Intensively Managed Temperate Forests: A Case Study in Puebla, Mexico
by
Brenda E. Pérez-Pardo, Alejandro Velázquez-Martínez, Mireya Burgos-Hernández and Valentín J. Reyes-Hernández
Forests 2024, 15(6), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060920 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Clearcutting has tended to simplify forest structure and species composition, with potential negative consequences for biodiversity. Retention forestry emerged as an alternative to minimize this concern in intensively managed forests. In central Mexico, this approach was first implemented a decade ago in temperate
[...] Read more.
Clearcutting has tended to simplify forest structure and species composition, with potential negative consequences for biodiversity. Retention forestry emerged as an alternative to minimize this concern in intensively managed forests. In central Mexico, this approach was first implemented a decade ago in temperate forests, but an examination of its effects on floristic diversity and composition is non-existent. We evaluated and compared richness, diversity, and floristic composition among harvested, retention, and conserved areas in a conifer-dominated forest of central Mexico, with various parametric and non-parametric analyses. Species’ ecological and structural importance was also evaluated. We recorded 138 species, 95 genera, and 44 families of plants. Harvested areas listed the most species (99) with herb dominance, tree homogeneity, and the highest number of exotics. Retention and conserved areas’ floristic composition was similar, with the presence of epiphytes and terrestrial orchids, considered indicators of conservation. The retention areas recorded rare and endangered species, tree heterogeneity, and juveniles of structural species of temperate forests. Conserved areas showed a greater number of structural mature elements and exclusive species, though there was a smaller species number (75). We demonstrated that retention forestry is achieving its goal by maintaining the structural elements, habitats, and plant diversity of the temperate forests analyzed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Biodiversity)
Open AccessReview
A Review of Forest Ecosystem Services and Their Spatial Value Characteristics
by
Carl Nolander and Robert Lundmark
Forests 2024, 15(6), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060919 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Forests provide a variety of resources and benefits, but only a few, such as timber, are traded on the markets. Ecosystem service valuation is a method for quantifying the non-market benefits of forests to understand the full costs of forest management. This review
[...] Read more.
Forests provide a variety of resources and benefits, but only a few, such as timber, are traded on the markets. Ecosystem service valuation is a method for quantifying the non-market benefits of forests to understand the full costs of forest management. This review examines the forest ecosystem service valuations over the past 20 years, with a particular focus on their spatial modeling. The literature review method is designed to provide a systematic, explicit, and reproducible outcome concerning the valuations of forest ecosystem services and the contextual setting of these valuations. The findings suggest that there is a huge variation in the values reported for similar ecosystem services but that carbon sequestration, recreation in forests, and hydrological services, such as watershed protection and flood prevention, are the ecosystem services that are consistently valued highly in the reviewed studies. In the last ten years, studies have more frequently modeled ecosystem services in spatial terms.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economic Valuation of Forest Resources)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Precision Forestry Versus Non-Precision Archaeology—Integrating Forest Management and Archaeological Site Protection
by
Johanna Roiha, Topi Tanhuanpää, Juha Hyyppä and Markus Holopainen
Forests 2024, 15(6), 918; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060918 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
This study examines the precision of spatial data required for archaeological sites in Finland from a forest management perspective, identifies archaeological sites at risk due to forestry activities, and investigates potential collaboration between archaeology and forestry to enhance the preservation and understanding of
[...] Read more.
This study examines the precision of spatial data required for archaeological sites in Finland from a forest management perspective, identifies archaeological sites at risk due to forestry activities, and investigates potential collaboration between archaeology and forestry to enhance the preservation and understanding of these sites. Due to outdated methods and the lack of systematic field surveys, challenges in achieving accurate spatial data for archaeological sites are highlighted through a literature review, case studies, and fieldwork. Our findings indicate that a significant portion of sites lack boundary delineation, exposing them to the risk of destruction. Moreover, the study reveals limited collaboration between the archaeology and forestry sectors, despite mutual interests in site preservation. We advocate for improved spatial data accuracy using modern technological methods like precision GPS and enhanced cooperation between archaeologists and forestry professionals. This approach aims to protect Finland’s archaeological heritage while promoting responsible forestry practices. Notably, fieldwork enabled the precise determination of the location of Finland’s first separate plague cemetery, underscoring the value of direct field verification in enriching historical and archaeological understanding.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecology and Management)
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Forests Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Agriculture, Energies, Forests, Land, Sustainability
Low Carbon Economy and Sustainable Development
Topic Editors: Liang Liu, Xudong Chen, Guangxu Li, Baoguo Du, Xiaoying Lai, Yingwei AiDeadline: 31 May 2024
Topic in
Drones, Forests, Land, Remote Sensing, Sustainability
Individual Tree Detection (ITD) and Its Applications
Topic Editors: Ana Paula Dalla Corte, Midhun (Mikey) Mohan, Meshal M. Abdullah, Ewane Basil Ewane, Ana NovoDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Agronomy, Diversity, Forests, IJPB, Plants
Plant Invasion
Topic Editors: Bruce Osborne, Panayiotis G. DimitrakopoulosDeadline: 31 July 2024
Topic in
Agriculture, Agronomy, Forests, Remote Sensing, Sustainability
Challenges, Development and Frontiers of Smart Agriculture and Forestry—2nd Volume
Topic Editors: Xiaoli Zhang, Dengsheng Lu, Xiujuan Chai, Guijun Yang, Langning HuoDeadline: 31 August 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Forests
Structure and Species Composition of Forests – Prospects and Challenges for Adaptative Forest Management
Guest Editors: Ion Catalin Petritan, Jarosław PaluchDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Forests
Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants
Guest Editors: Katarína Pastirčáková, Rostislav ZemekDeadline: 10 June 2024
Special Issue in
Forests
Forest Pathology and Entomology—Series II
Guest Editors: Salvatore Moricca, Tiziana PanzavoltaDeadline: 30 June 2024
Special Issue in
Forests
Synergies and Trade-Offs between Nature Conservation and Climate Mitigation in European Beech Forests
Guest Editors: Thomas Dirnböck, Robert Jandl, Hanns KirchmeirDeadline: 19 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Forests
Forests Carbon Fluxes and Sequestration
Collection Editor: Mark Harmon
Topical Collection in
Forests
Sustainable Forest Management: Past, Present, Future
Collection Editor: Heli Peltola
Topical Collection in
Forests
Reviews and Meta-Analyses in Forest Meteorology and Climate Change
Collection Editors: Giacomo Alessandro Gerosa, Riccardo Marzuoli
Topical Collection in
Forests
Forest Sustainable Management in Europe
Collection Editor: Ignacio Diaz-Maroto