Summary
Published in Forest Science 63(6): 559-568 https://doi.org/10.5849/FS-2017-062R2
In the boreal forest, ground-layer composition may modulate the effects of precommercial thinning (PCT) on stand productivity by affecting tree growth conditions. Based on data from 15 years of PCT monitoring in black spruce (Picea mariana) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana) stands, the objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of PCT on ground-layer composition and the way ground-layer composition is related to tree growth, stand productivity, and the PCT impact on stand productivity. PCT favored lichen expansion in xeric sites. The positive impact of PCT on stand productivity after 15 years was lower in sites with high year-one lichen cover, suggesting that the aboveground positive effect of PCT on growth may have been mitigated by a belowground negative feedback resulting from lichen expansion in xeric sites. Although Sphagnum spp. cover was not affected by PCT, 15-year increase in stand productivity was lower in sites with high year-one Sphagnum spp. cover. These results suggest that xeric stands with high lichen cover should not be targeted for PCT because of either null or negative effects on stand productivity. Subhydric stands with high Sphagnum spp. cover should also be avoided because of lower potential stand productivity.
Sector(s):
Forests
Categorie(s):
Scientific Article
Theme(s):
Forest Ecology, Forestry Research, Forests, Silviculture
Departmental author(s):
Author(s)
PACÉ, Marine, Martin BARRETTE, Nicole J. FENTON, David PARÉ and Yves BERGERON
Year of publication :
2017
How to get the publication :
Keywords :
sphaignes, mousses, lichens, arbres marchands, sous-étage, écologie forestière, sylviculture et rendement des forêts naturelles - peuplements résineux, article scientifique de recherche forestière, sphagnum, forest ecology, silviculture and yield of natural forests - softwood stands, feather moss, lichen, merchantable tree, understory
