Die globale Bedeutung der Kaspischen Wälder : Vorträge

Bonn

2005

S. 45-70

7 Abb., 49 Lit. Ang.

Artikel aus einer ZeitschriftUnselbständiges Werk

200125355

The Caspian (Hyrcanian) forests in the Alburz und Talysh mountains (Oran, Azerbaijan) as well as the Colchic forests (Georgia) are the most important refuge and relic forests in West Eurasia, and an important biodiversity centre. Deciduous broadleaf forests are the natural vegetation of temperate oceanic-suboceanic regions in Eastern North America, in West Eurasia, and East Asia. The "arcto-tertiary" vegetation is their common origin. The natural area of temperate deciduous forests is strength reduced, the remaining stock is changed by use in artificial plantations and secondary woodland. Relics of primary undisturbed temperate broadleaf forests are extraordinary rare all over the world. The Caspian forests partially represent worldwide the last relics of primary temperate broadleaf forests. The age and the continuation of forests cover are of irreplaceable value. A primary forest, once cut, is irreversibly extinct, it can be never reconstructed. The protection of primary forests and the sustainable use of secondary woods is a challenge of international importance. The paper shall 1) analyse the plant geographical position of the Caspian forests within the temperate broadleaf forests of the Northern hemisphere, 2) identify threats, and 3) recommend opportunities of conservation, sustainable use and integrated management.