Work

Dynamics and Structural Changes in the Janj Mixed Old-Growth Mountain Forest: Continuing Decline of Conifers

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Old-growth forests are rare in Europe, yet they play a critical role in biodiversity and carbon storage. This study examines the structural dynamics of the Janj old-growth forest in the Dinaric Alps using repeated field measurements from 2011 and 2021 at 39 systematically arranged 12 m radius plots. All trees (DBH ≥ 7.5 cm), regeneration (10 cm height to 7.5 cm DBH), and coarse woody debris (CWD) were assessed. Results revealed that total basal area declined by 3.5 m2 ha−1 over the decade, primarily driven by significant reductions in stem density for silver fir (p = 0.001) and Norway spruce (p = 0.001). In contrast, European beech maintained a stable basal area throughout the study period. Moreover, silver fir exhibited a significant increase in mean diameter (p = 0.032) and a pronounced rise in regeneration individuals (t = 3.257, p = 0.002). These findings underscore a gradual compositional shift towards European beech dominance, with conifers facing higher mortality in larger diameter classes. The substantial volume of CWD (463 m3 ha−1) highlights advanced decay dynamics consistent with mature forest conditions. This study emphasizes the value of repeated measurements to capture subtle yet important successional changes in primeval forests, which is essential for conservation planning and sustainable forest management.

Source: Forests

DOI: 10.3390/f16060988

Authors: Srdjan Bilić, Vojislav Dukić, Srdjan Keren, Wojciech Ochał

Institutions: University of Banja Luka, University of Agriculture in Krakow

Language: English

Topic: Forest ecology and management

Subfield: Nature and Landscape Conservation

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137