Succession and Regeneration in the Natural Forests in Central Europe

1991

S. 202-208

16 Lit. Ang.

Serie

400083818

A short overview is given over succession and regeneration in virgin forests, particularly in the montane and subalpine stages. Most relicts of natural stands are preserved in the forests of beech, fir and Norway spruce. They are regarded as relatively stable communities consisting of a small- scale mosaic of phases of development. Fire does not play an important rote in Central European forests. The deciding factor in their development is storm. It changes their structure but does usually not destroy the community. A full cycle of regeneration beginning with a pioneer community is rather an exception. In principle, the way of development in submontane beech forests and also in the subalpine conifer forests is similar. The latter are more affected by natural by natural hazards and human influences. A natural tendency to an extensive breakdown is, however, doubtful.

; 18,Nr. 5-6, S. 202-208