Research Projects

Research Organisation Partners

• University of Agriculture in Krakow, Faculty of Forestry
• University of Zagreb, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology

Abstract

Mixed forests of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) are common in the lower montane zone of Central and Southeastern Europe, where they cover large contiguous forest areas. Fir and beech are among the most economically and ecologically important native tree species in Europe. In the context of a changing climate, identifying the factors that enable their coexistence is crucial for maintaining high biodiversity in forest ecosystems. In forestry, mixtures of beech and fir are recognized as beneficial for mitigating the negative effects of drought stress, thereby reducing risks in forest management. Previous studies have shown that mixed stands can promote diameter growth, especially in larger trees, but less is known about how interspecific interactions affect other growth dimensions (height and lateral growth) in early developmental stages.

This research project examines how climatic and environmental factors influence the growth, regeneration success, and coexistence of beech and fir saplings in mixed forests at the northeastern (Poland) and southeastern edges (Slovenia and Croatia) of their distribution ranges. The study focuses on identifying patterns of vertical, lateral, and radial growth in relation to climatic variables, as well as determining the key environmental constraints affecting early developmental stages. Additional objectives include a comparative analysis of the sensitivity of different life stages to weather anomalies, quantification of climate-driven intraspecific variation along light and habitat gradients, and assessment of which types of growth are most affected by stress factors such as drought, temperature extremes, or late frosts.

By integrating growth measurements with environmental data - including light availability, soil properties, and local climate - the project aims to evaluate the impact of environmental factors on intra- and interspecific differences in early tree development. The results will contribute to a better understanding of regeneration dynamics in mixed forests across different regions and provide a scientific basis for biodiversity conservation and climate-adapted forest management.

External link to Researchers Open in new window

• dr. Matteo Cerioni
• dr. Jurij Diaci
• dr. Gal Fidej
• Blaž Fricelj
• Lea Leskovec
• Tim Pirc
• dr. Dušan Roženbergar