| 1. |
|
|
| 2. |
- Klionsky, Daniel J., et al.
(author)
-
Guidelines for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring autophagy
- 2012
-
In: Autophagy. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1554-8635 .- 1554-8627. ; 8:4, s. 445-544
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In 2008 we published the first set of guidelines for standardizing research in autophagy. Since then, research on this topic has continued to accelerate, and many new scientists have entered the field. Our knowledge base and relevant new technologies have also been expanding. Accordingly, it is important to update these guidelines for monitoring autophagy in different organisms. Various reviews have described the range of assays that have been used for this purpose. Nevertheless, there continues to be confusion regarding acceptable methods to measure autophagy, especially in multicellular eukaryotes. A key point that needs to be emphasized is that there is a difference between measurements that monitor the numbers or volume of autophagic elements (e.g., autophagosomes or autolysosomes) at any stage of the autophagic process vs. those that measure flux through the autophagy pathway (i.e., the complete process); thus, a block in macroautophagy that results in autophagosome accumulation needs to be differentiated from stimuli that result in increased autophagic activity, defined as increased autophagy induction coupled with increased delivery to, and degradation within, lysosomes (in most higher eukaryotes and some protists such as Dictyostelium) or the vacuole (in plants and fungi). In other words, it is especially important that investigators new to the field understand that the appearance of more autophagosomes does not necessarily equate with more autophagy. In fact, in many cases, autophagosomes accumulate because of a block in trafficking to lysosomes without a concomitant change in autophagosome biogenesis, whereas an increase in autolysosomes may reflect a reduction in degradative activity. Here, we present a set of guidelines for the selection and interpretation of methods for use by investigators who aim to examine macroautophagy and related processes, as well as for reviewers who need to provide realistic and reasonable critiques of papers that are focused on these processes. These guidelines are not meant to be a formulaic set of rules, because the appropriate assays depend in part on the question being asked and the system being used. In addition, we emphasize that no individual assay is guaranteed to be the most appropriate one in every situation, and we strongly recommend the use of multiple assays to monitor autophagy. In these guidelines, we consider these various methods of assessing autophagy and what information can, or cannot, be obtained from them. Finally, by discussing the merits and limits of particular autophagy assays, we hope to encourage technical innovation in the field.
|
|
| 3. |
- Andersson, Jon, et al.
(author)
-
Tree cavity densities and characteristics in managed and unmanaged Swedish boreal forest
- 2018
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Forest Research. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0282-7581 .- 1651-1891. ; 33, s. 233-244
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In forests worldwide, similar to 10-40% of bird and mammal species require cavities for nesting or roosting. Although knowledge of tree cavity availability and dynamics has increased during past decades, there is a striking lack of studies from boreal Europe. We studied the density and characteristics of cavities and cavity-bearing trees in three categories of forest in a north-Swedish landscape: clearcuts with tree retention, managed old (>100 years) forest, and unmanaged old forest. Unmanaged old forests had significantly higher mean density of cavities (2.4 +/- 2.2(SD) ha(-1)) than managed old forest (1.1 +/- 2.1 ha(-1)). On clearcuts the mean cavity density was 0.4 +/- 2.3 ha(-1). Eurasian aspen (Populus tremula) had a higher probability of containing excavated cavities than other tree species. There was a greater variety of entrance hole shapes and a higher proportion of cavities with larger entrances in old forest than on clearcuts. Although studies of breeding success will be necessary to more accurately assess the impact of forest management on cavity-nesting birds, our results show reduced cavity densities in managed forest. To ensure future provision of cavities, managers should retain existing cavity-bearing trees as well as trees suitable for cavity formation, particularly aspen and dead trees.
|
|
| 4. |
|
|
| 5. |
- Angelstam, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Evidence-Based Knowledge Versus Negotiated Indicators for Assessment of Ecological Sustainability : The Swedish Forest Stewardship Council Standard as a Case Study
- 2013
-
In: Ambio. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 42:2, s. 229-240
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Assessing ecological sustainability involves monitoring of indicators and comparison of their states with performance targets that are deemed sustainable. First, a normative model was developed centered on evidence-based knowledge about (a) forest composition, structure, and function at multiple scales, and (b) performance targets derived by quantifying the habitat amount in naturally dynamic forests, and as required for presence of populations of specialized focal species. Second, we compared the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification standards' ecological indicators from 1998 and 2010 in Sweden to the normative model using a Specific, Measurable, Accurate, Realistic, and Timebound (SMART) indicator approach. Indicator variables and targets for riparian and aquatic ecosystems were clearly under-represented compared to terrestrial ones. FSC's ecological indicators expanded over time from composition and structure towards function, and from finer to coarser spatial scales. However, SMART indicators were few. Moreover, they poorly reflected quantitative evidence-based knowledge, a consequence of the fact that forest certification mirrors the outcome of a complex social negotiation process.
|
|
| 6. |
|
|
| 7. |
|
|
| 8. |
- Angelstam, Per, et al.
(author)
-
Protecting forest areas for biodiversity in Sweden 1991–2010: the policy implementation process and outcomes on the ground
- 2011
-
In: Silva Fennica. - : Finnish Society of Forest Science. - 0037-5330 .- 2242-4075. ; 45, s. 1111-1133
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Swedish forest and environmental policies imply that forests should be managed so that all naturally occurring species are maintained in viable populations. This requires maintenance of functional networks of representative natural forest and cultural woodland habitats. We first review the policy implementation process regarding protected areas in Sweden 1991-2010, how ecological knowledge was used to formulate interim short-term and strategic long-term biodiversity conservation goals, and the development of a hierarchical spatial planning approach. Second, we present data about the amount of formally protected and voluntarily set aside forest stands, and evaluate how much remains in terms of additional forest protection, conservation management and habitat restoration to achieve forest and environmental policy objectives in the long-term. Third, a case study in central Sweden was made to estimate the functionality of old Scots pine, Norway spruce and deciduous forest habitats, as well as cultural woodland, in different forest regions. Finally, we assess operational biodiversity conservation planning processes. We conclude that Swedish policy pronouncements capture the contemporary knowledge about biodiversity and conservation planning well. However, the existing area of protected and set-aside forests is presently too small and with too poor connectivity. To bridge this gap, spatial planning, management and restoration of habitat, as well as collaboration among forest and conservation planners need to be improved.
|
|
| 9. |
- Angelstam, Per, 1953-, et al.
(author)
-
Two-dimensional gap analysis : a tool for efficient conservation planning and biodiversity policy implementation
- 2003
-
In: Ambio. - : Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 32:8, s. 527-534
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The maintenance of biodiversity by securing representative and well-connected habitat networks in managed landscapes requires a wise combination of protection, management, and restoration of habitats at several scales. We suggest that the integration of natural and social sciences in the form of "Two-dimensional gap analysis" is an efficient tool for the implementation of biodiversity policies. The tool links biologically relevant "horizontal" ecological issues with "vertical" issues related to institutions and other societal issues. Using forest biodiversity as an example, we illustrate how one can combine ecological and institutional aspects of biodiversity conservation, thus facilitating environmentally sustainable regional development. In particular, we use regional gap analysis for identification of focal forest types, habitat modelling for ascertaining the functional connectivity of "green infrastructures", as tools for the horizontal gap analysis. For the vertical dimension we suggest how the social sciences can be used for assessing the success in the implementation of biodiversity policies in real landscapes by identifying institutional obstacles while implementing policies. We argue that this interdisciplinary approach could be applied in a whole range of other environments including other terrestrial biota and aquatic ecosystems where functional habitat connectivity, nonlinear response to habitat loss and a multitude of economic and social interests co-occur in the same landscape.
|
|
| 10. |
|
|
| 11. |
- Blicharska, Malgorzata, 1979-, et al.
(author)
-
Contribution of social science to large scale biodiversity conservation : a review of research about the Natura 2000 network
- 2016
-
In: Biological Conservation. - : Elsevier BV. - 0006-3207 .- 1873-2917. ; 199, s. 110-122
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Successful conservation needs to be informed by social science because it is closely linked to socio-economic processes and human behaviour. Limited knowledge about ecosystems' interactions with these processes currently undermines conservation efforts. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of social science concerning the world's largest multinationally-coordinated conservation infrastructure: the European Ecological Network - ‘Natura 2000’. Based on a review of 149 publications, we analyse and discuss the main findings and outline key social-science research gaps with regard to the Natura 2000 network. The review shows that human dimension of the Natura 2000 network is complex and varies among EU Member States. In general, low level and quality of public participation in implementation of the Natura 2000 network and its management, negative public perceptions of the network, lack of flexibility of responsible authorities and insufficient consideration of the local context pose the greatest challenges to the network's functioning. Important but hitherto little studied research topics include: evaluation of participation; effects of education on potential to raise public awareness; effects of potential financing mechanisms for compensating private land-owners; economic studies on cost-effectiveness; and benefits from conservation and ecosystem services. These knowledge gaps will need to be filled for the Natura 2000 network to reach its goals.
|
|
| 12. |
- Dynesius, Mats, et al.
(author)
-
Bryophyte species composition at the stand scale (1 ha) – Differences between secondary stands half a century after clear-cutting and older semi-natural boreal forests
- 2021
-
In: Forest Ecology and Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-1127 .- 1872-7042. ; 428
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A growing proportion of the boreal biome consists of managed even-aged secondary forest stands regenerated after clear-cutting. Many disturbance-intolerant species may not be able to recolonize or reach their original abundance in these stands before the next clear-cutting, potentially causing large-scale biodiversity losses. Boreal bryophytes (mosses and liverworts) include many species intolerant to clear-cutting, and at small spatial scales species richness and occupancy has been shown to remain changed in secondary stands half a century after logging. To assess if such persistent changes occur also at the stand scale, we listed and estimated cover of all bryophyte species in 1-ha plots, comparing 14 secondary stands originating from clear-cutting 40–60 years earlier with 14 older semi-natural stands. The large plots also made it possible to assess differences in occupancy and abundance for more bryophyte species than in previous studies. Species composition differed significantly for both mosses and liverworts, but unlike earlier studies, we could not detect any significant difference between stand types in species numbers. Thirteen species were significantly associated with semi-natural stands and the total cover of liverworts was less than half in secondary stands. Secondary stands had significantly fewer species typically occurring under shady conditions and/or mostly growing on “tree substrates” (dead wood and/or bases and stems of living trees). Ordination analysis further emphasized the importance of shade and suitable deadwood substrates; the among-plot variation in bryophyte species composition was related to amount of coarse deadwood as well as to gradients from shady spruce dominated to open pine dominated stands and from polar- to equator-facing slopes. Besides lack of suitable habitat conditions in secondary stands, dispersal limitation may have caused a colonization time lag for some species. The clear importance of stand scale habitat conditions for bryophyte species composition calls for management adaptions to facilitate life boating and/or recolonization by ensuring availability of shade, coarse decomposing logs, and specific deciduous tree species (Populus, Salix, Sorbus) in secondary stands.
|
|
| 13. |
- Edenius, Lars, et al.
(author)
-
Browsing and damage inflicted by moose in young Scots pine stands subjected to high-stump precommercial thinning
- 2015
-
In: Scandinavian Journal of Forest Research. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0282-7581 .- 1651-1891. ; 30, s. 382-387
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In Fennoscandia, young stands of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) are intensively used by moose (Alces alces L.) during winter. We studied whether forage amounts on high-cut pines in high-stump commercial thinning influenced browsing intensity and damage incidence on retained (i.e. uncut) pine stems. High-cut pines were browsed, but to a lesser extent than retained pines. At a scale corresponding to individual feeding sites (approximate to 40 m(2)), browsing intensity on retained pines was not influenced by the amount of forage on high-cut pines but was positively related to moose pellet group counts. The incidence of lower-height damage (stem breakage and bark stripping) was positively related to the amount of forage on high-cut pines, whereas higher damage (leader shoot browsing) was not. Overall browsing damage incidence on retained pines was positively related to the density of deciduous trees and negatively related to the amount of forage on retained pines. Our results suggest that although high-stump thinning supplies additional food resources for moose, larger amounts of forage on high-cut pines may increase the risk for bark stripping and stem breakage on retained trees. Further research is needed at larger spatial scales to assess the feasibility of high-stump thinning as a damage mitigation measure.
|
|
| 14. |
|
|
| 15. |
- Edenius, Lars, et al.
(author)
-
The next common and widespread bunting to go? Global population decline in the Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica
- 2017
-
In: Bird Conservation International. - 0959-2709 .- 1474-0001. ; 27, s. 35-44
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Populations of several long-distance migratory songbirds in Eurasia are in peril, drastically illustrated by the recent range-wide population collapse in the Yellow-breasted Bunting Emberiza aureola. There are signals of a strong decline also in the Rustic Bunting E. rustica, but no range-wide assessment of population trends in this superabundant and widespread bunting species has yet been undertaken. The conservation status of Rustic Bunting is 'Least Concern' on the global IUCN Red List, but it has recently been upgraded to 'Vulnerable' on the European Red List. To assess the Rustic Bunting's global conservation status we compiled, for the first time, population data across its breeding and wintering ranges. The analysis reveals a 75-87% decline in overall population size over the last 30 years and a 32-91% decline over the last 10 years. The trend estimates indicate that the long-term (30-year) range-wide population decline in the Rustic Bunting is of similar magnitude to two well-known examples of declining species within the same genus, the Yellow-breasted Bunting and the Ortolan Bunting E. hortulana. The magnitude of the range-wide population decline over the last 10 years suggests that the Rustic Bunting could be upgraded from 'Least Concern' to 'Vulnerable' or 'Endangered' on the IUCN global Red List. Agricultural intensification in the wintering range and intensified levels of disturbance, including logging and fire, in the breeding range could be important drivers of the range-wide population decline, and persecution could also contribute. Untangling threat factors and their interactions on Rustic Bunting is necessary for conservation, but hampered by our currently limited understanding of the relationships between population dynamics and different threats.
|
|
| 16. |
- Edenius, Lars, et al.
(author)
-
Ungulate-adapted forest management: effects of slash treatment at harvest on forage availability and use
- 2014
-
In: European Journal of Forest Research. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1612-4669 .- 1612-4677. ; 133, s. 191-198
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Forest management strongly influences the interactions between ungulates and their food resources. Different ungulate-adapted measures have been proposed in forestry to improve forage availability or to reduce browsing damage. However, the potential and feasibility of such measures are inadequately known. We studied the effects of harvest timing and slash treatment in final felling and commercial thinning on the availability of Scots pine Pinus sylvestris forage and its use by ungulates during winter in the Swedish boreal forests. Pellet group counts showed that moose (Alces alces) was the dominating species using the post-harvest stands. Under conventional slash treatment, final felling stands held on average 226 kg pine forage ha(-1) after harvesting and commercial thinning stands 137 kg ha(-1). Ungulate-adapted slash treatment increased the available forage biomass by 20 %, but had no significant effect on consumption of forage by ungulates. Time since harvest had the strongest effect on forage consumption; for example, under conventional slash treatment, there was a tenfold increase in consumption (3 vs. 33 kg ha(-1)) following final felling as exposure time increased from 2-3 to 4-5 months. Consumption was higher in thinned stands than in final felling stands for the first 3 months but not later. To increase ungulate use of the forage made available at harvest, pine-dominated stands should be harvested in the late autumn or early in the winter.
|
|
| 17. |
|
|
| 18. |
- Edman, Tobias, et al.
(author)
-
Spatial planning for biodiversity conservation: Assessment of forest landscapes' conservation value using umbrella species requirements in Poland
- 2011
-
In: Landscape and Urban Planning. - : Elsevier BV. - 0169-2046 .- 1872-6062. ; 102, s. 16-23
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Maintenance of biodiversity requires spatial planning for the conservation of species habitats. In this study, the distribution of the White-backed Woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos) in Poland was used to assess the usefulness of a demographic model compared to an area-based model for predicting the occurrence of breeding pairs in local landscapes. The models were applied to the European Forest Map and to CORINE land cover data, two spatial databases derived from remote sensing. We tested the performance of the models by comparing predicted occurrence of the species with actual occurrence in 10 km x 10 km of the Polish Ornithological Atlas Database (POAD). Both models proved useful for identifying areas with high potential for hosting breeding woodpeckers. However, the demographic model performed consistently better at predicting the presence of at least one breeding pair in local landscapes. In north-eastern and south-eastern Poland, expected occurrences coincided with the actual occurrence of the species according to POAD. In north-western Poland, however, occurrence was predicted but not confirmed by the atlas data. The eastern regions are situated at the border to Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine and Slovakia. These countries hold large areas of high conservation value forests and large populations of White-backed Woodpecker. This pattern evokes the need for cross-border governance, and planning with an eco-regional perspective that considers both EU and non-EU countries. Moreover, the results stress the need to incorporate population requirements when assessing the distribution of forests with high conservation value. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
|
|
| 19. |
- Eggers, Sönke, et al.
(author)
-
Ecological restoration in boreal forest modifies the structure of bird assemblages
- 2017
-
In: Forest Ecology and Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-1127 .- 1872-7042. ; 401, s. 75-88
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Ecological restoration is increasingly recognised as a useful tool for biodiversity conservation in boreal forests. Most restoration methods in this environment aim to emulate natural disturbances, and thereby promote the development of key ecological structures. However, research about forest ecosystem restoration is still in its infancy and the responses of many boreal species groups remain to be described. We established a large-scale field experiment to evaluate the short-term effects of two restoration treatments - prescribed burning and gap cutting involving the creation of dead wood - on breeding bird assemblages in boreal Sweden. We censused breeding birds using territory mapping during two years in forest stands subjected to the two restoration treatments, in untreated controls and in old-growth references (nature reserves) (n = 10 per treatment). Averaged over the two census years, we found 1145 territories of 36 bird species. Total bird species richness and abundance did not differ among treatments. However, prescribed burning led to clear changes in the structure of the bird assemblages. When dividing species according to four functional categorizations (migration, foraging, nesting and successional stage), we found that the abundance of long-distance migrants, ground breeders, strong cavity excavators and species preferring early-successional habitat was higher in burned stands than in untreated controls and gap-cut stands, as was the species richness of bark feeders and strong cavity excavators. In contrast, abundance of off-ground breeders and species richness of crown feeders were lower following prescribed burning than in the controls. The gap cutting treatment did not have any significant effects on the bird assemblages. Ecological restoration through prescribed burning can be a useful tool for the conservation of boreal forest birds, including the ecologically important strong cavity excavators (i.e. woodpeckers (Picidae)). Forest managers should therefore be encouraged to use prescribed burning as a restoration tool to quickly provide habitat for bird species adapted to natural disturbances in boreal forest. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
|
|
| 20. |
- Ericsson, Göran, et al.
(author)
-
Slutrapport. Temaforskningsprogram Vilt och Skog 2010-2012
- 2013
-
Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Liksom under föregående projektperiod har styrgruppen under 2010‐12 varit mycket engagerad och aktiv. För tema 1 ‐ Klövviltets fördelning och nyttjande av skogslandskapet ‐ har det inneburit ett fortsatt fokus på älg fram till 2012 då programmet startade förberedelserna för flerartsstudier. För tema 2 ‐ Skogsskötsel, foderproduktion och utnyttjande – har det medfört dels ett fortsatt fokus utvärdering av åtgärderna i Sveaskogs foderprojekt, dels ett tydligare arbete med fler studieområden och klövviltets nyttjande av miljön. För tema 3 ‐ Förbättrade instrument för övervakning av viltpopulationerna – har resurserna koncentrerats på studier av referenshägn. Utifrån rogrammets resurser, >3 Mkr per år, och den ambitiösa programplanen som styrgruppen tillsammans med forskarna utarbetat, är det programledningens bedömning att vi mer än väl nått målen vad gäller relevant kunskap för sektorn och SLU, särskilt inom följande områden. Vi har… * med flera studiepopulationer i södra, mellersta och norra Sverige studerat älgarnas fördelning och nyttjande av skogslandskapet med hjälp av GPS; * med tre studiepopulationer i södra Sverige studerat klövviltets fördelning och nyttjande av skogslandskapet med hjälp av inventeringar; * dokumenterat nyttjandet ur ett flerartsperspektiv i tre områden i södra Sverige; * utvärderat effekten på skog av direkt foderskapande åtgärder inklusive viltåkrar; * i stor skala utvecklat och utvärderat metoder för uppföljning av klövviltets fördelning i landskapet och deras påverkan; * etablerat och delvis utvärderat referenshägn som ett förbättrat instrument för bedömning av betespåverkan; * i de två regeringsuppdragen till SLU om inventeringsmetoder för älg och utbildning adaptiv förvaltning utarbetat faktablad, manualer och utbildningsmaterial, samt deltagit i utbildning av länsstyrelser och skogsnäring Vi bedömer att vi endast delvis nått målen för… * några planerade foderskapande åtgärder. Vi bedömer att orsaken till detta är rent praktiska inom skogssektorn, vilka stått helt utanför vår kontroll. Det handlar dels om att åtgärderna sattes in så sent (säsongen 2010‐2011 eller 2012 för frihuggning av ekar) att effekterna helt enkelt inte kunnat utvärderas (främst viltanpassad röjning), dels att planerade åtgärder som plantering av salix inte alls blev av, dels att vissa åtgärder utfördes i mycket mindre omfattning än planerat; * förbättrade instrument för övervakning av viltpopulationerna. SLU:s och den skogsvetenskapliga fakultetens mål med temaforskningsprogram är att bygga ny kompetens. Under programperioden har SLU blivit den ledande miljön inom adaptiv klövviltförvaltning, rörelseekologi, vilt och foderskapande åtgärder samt inventeringsmetodik för betning och klövvilt. Programmet har tränat fyra postdoktorala forskare varav två är docent på SLU idag. Vi har internationellt rekryterat två forskarassistenter som redan nu efter två år är under prövning för docentur vid SLU. Programet har tränat 22 studenter, sammanfattat kunskapen i 17 rapporter, 22 examensarbeten (21 master, 1 kandidat), 15 faktablad, 7 bokkapitel, 6 manualer för adaptiv 4 älgförvaltning, 6 instruktioner om försöksdesign, >11 populärvetenskapliga artiklar och slutligen 51 vetenskapliga arbeten till refereegranskade tidskrifter. Därtill har vi medverkat i ett stort antal publika möten från Skåne i söder till Norrbotten i norr.
|
|
| 21. |
- Felton, Adam, et al.
(author)
-
How climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies can threaten or enhance the biodiversity of production forests: Insights from Sweden
- 2016
-
In: Biological Conservation. - : Elsevier BV. - 0006-3207 .- 1873-2917. ; 194, s. 11-20
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Anthropogenic climate change is altering the management of production forests. These changes are motivated by the need to adapt to the uncertainties and risks of climate change, and by the need to enlist their carbon storage and sequestration capacity as part of global mitigation efforts. These changes do however raise concerns regarding the potential implications for forest biodiversity. Here we evaluate these concerns by assessing the biodiversity implications of climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies (CCAMS) being implemented in the production forests of Sweden. We do so by identifying biodiversity goals aimed specifically at closing the existing gap between the habitat requirements of forest-dependent species, and the conditions provided by production forests, in terms of tree species composition, forest structures, and spatio-temporal forest patterns. We then use the existing literature to determine whether and by which pathway each CCAMS is likely to bridge or extend this gap. Our results indicate that CCAMS will often come into direct or partial conflict with Swedish biodiversity goals in production forests. Furthermore, some CCAMS which are inconsistent with biodiversity goals, such as logging residue removal, are being implemented more extensively than those which were most consistent with biodiversity goals. We nevertheless challenge the necessity of setting the preservation of forest biodiversity against climate change mitigation and adaptation. We clarify how CCAMS with negative biodiversity implications may still be implemented without adverse outcomes, if coupled with conservation interventions, or combined with other CCAMS deemed complementary in habitat provision. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
|
|
| 22. |
- Felton, Adam, et al.
(author)
-
Projecting biodiversity and wood production in future forest landscapes: 15 key modeling considerations
- 2017
-
In: Journal of Environmental Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0301-4797 .- 1095-8630. ; 197, s. 404-414
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A variety of modeling approaches can be used to project the future development of forest systems, and help to assess the implications of different management alternatives for biodiversity and ecosystem services. This diversity of approaches does however present both an opportunity and an obstacle for those trying to decide which modeling technique to apply, and interpreting the management implications of model output. Furthermore, the breadth of issues relevant to addressing key questions related to forest ecology, conservation biology, silviculture, economics, requires insights stemming from a number of distinct scientific disciplines. As forest planners, conservation ecologists, ecological economists and silviculturalists, experienced with modeling trade-offs and synergies between biodiversity and wood biomass production, we identified fifteen key considerations relevant to assessing the pros and cons of alternative modeling approaches. Specifically we identified key considerations linked to study question formulation, modeling forest dynamics, forest processes, study landscapes, spatial and temporal aspects, and the key response metrics biodiversity and wood biomass production, as well as dealing with trade-offs and uncertainties. We also provide illustrative examples from the modeling literature stemming from the key considerations assessed. We use our findings to reiterate the need for explicitly addressing and conveying the limitations and uncertainties of any modeling approach taken, and the need for interdisciplinary research efforts when addressing the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable use of environmental resources. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
|
|
| 23. |
- Felton, Adam, et al.
(author)
-
Replacing monocultures with mixed-species : Ecosystem service implications of two production forest alternatives in Sweden
- 2016
-
In: Ambio. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 45:Suppl. 2, s. 124-139
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Whereas there is evidence that mixed-species approaches to production forestry in general can provide positive outcomes relative to monocultures, it is less clear to what extent multiple benefits can be derived from specific mixed-species alternatives. To provide such insights requires evaluations of an encompassing suite of ecosystem services, biodiversity, and forest management considerations provided by specific mixtures and monocultures within a region. Here, we conduct such an assessment in Sweden by contrasting even-aged Norway spruce (Picea abies)-dominated stands, with mixed-species stands of spruce and birch (Betula pendula or B. pubescens), or spruce and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). By synthesizing the available evidence, we identify positive outcomes from mixtures including increased biodiversity, water quality, esthetic and recreational values, as well as reduced stand vulnerability to pest and pathogen damage. However, some uncertainties and risks were projected to increase, highlighting the importance of conducting comprehensive interdisciplinary evaluations when assessing the pros and cons of mixtures.
|
|
| 24. |
- Felton, Adam, et al.
(author)
-
Replacing monocultures with mixed-species stands : Ecosystem service implications of two production forest alternatives in Sweden
- 2016
-
In: Ambio. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 45, s. 124-139
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Whereas there is evidence that mixed-species approaches to production forestry in general can provide positive outcomes relative to monocultures, it is less clear to what extent multiple benefits can be derived from specific mixed-species alternatives. To provide such insights requires evaluations of an encompassing suite of ecosystem services, biodiversity, and forest management considerations provided by specific mixtures and monocultures within a region. Here, we conduct such an assessment in Sweden by contrasting even-aged Norway spruce (Picea abies)-dominated stands, with mixed-species stands of spruce and birch (Betula pendula or B. pubescens), or spruce and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). By synthesizing the available evidence, we identify positive outcomes from mixtures including increased biodiversity, water quality, esthetic and recreational values, as well as reduced stand vulnerability to pest and pathogen damage. However, some uncertainties and risks were projected to increase, highlighting the importance of conducting comprehensive interdisciplinary evaluations when assessing the pros and cons of mixtures.
|
|
| 25. |
- Felton, Adam, et al.
(author)
-
Varying rotation lengths in northern production forests: Implications for habitats provided by retention and production trees
- 2017
-
In: AMBIO: A Journal of the Human Environment. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 46, s. 324-334
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Because of the limited spatial extent and comprehensiveness of protected areas, an increasing emphasis is being placed on conserving habitats which promote biodiversity within production forest. For this reason, alternative silvicultural programs need to be evaluated with respect to their implications for forest biodiversity, especially if these programs are likely to be adopted. Here we simulated the effect of varied rotation length and associated thinning regimes on habitat availability in Scots pine and Norway spruce production forests, with high and low productivity. Shorter rotation lengths reduced the contribution made by production trees (trees grown for industrial use) to the availability of key habitat features, while concurrently increasing the contribution from retention trees. The contribution of production trees to habitat features was larger for high productivity sites, than for low productivity sites. We conclude that shortened rotation lengths result in losses of the availability of habitat features that are key for biodiversity conservation and that increased retention practices may only partially compensate for this. Ensuring that conservation efforts better reflect the inherent variation in stand rotation lengths would help improve the maintenance of key forest habitats in production forests.
|
|
| 26. |
- Gustafsson, Lena, et al.
(author)
-
Natural Versus National Boundaries: The Importance of Considering Biogeographical Patterns in Forest Conservation Policy
- 2015
-
In: Conservation Letters. - : Wiley. - 1755-263X. ; 8, s. 50-57
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Applying biogeographical insights to the regulation of production forestry and the determination of forest reserve strategies is expected to increase the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation actions. Here, we assess the extent to which such applications take place. By using Sweden as a case study, we demonstrate fundamental differences among biogeographical regions in natural patterns and processes, past land-use, and anthropogenic impacts that need to be better incorporated into strategic conservation planning and decisions. Furthermore, assessment of specific forestry regulations and biogeographical variation in a number of other countries/provinces embracing boreal and temperate biomes also indicate that natural boundaries are insufficiently considered in forest management policies. We suggest that a substantial potential exists to better align conservation priorities with biogeographical characteristics. To illustrate the application of such an approach, we present a decision support model on how forest conservation policies that rest on natural boundaries and ecological processes can be developed.
|
|
| 27. |
- Hekkala, Anne-Maarit, et al.
(author)
-
The use of response measures in meta-analyses of land-use impacts on ecological communities: a review and the way forward
- 2018
-
In: Biodiversity and Conservation. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0960-3115 .- 1572-9710. ; 27, s. 2989-3005
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Species richness and total abundance are two of the most commonly used response measures in empirical studies of the effects of anthropogenic land-use on biodiversity, in spite of the fact that they are insensitive to changes in a range of community attributes. We evaluated the extent to which meta-analyses about the effects of forest land-use on ecological communities make use of gross species richness, diversity and abundance measures (hereafter low-informative measures) as opposed to more refined response variables conveying a higher degree of conservation-relevant information, e.g., by accounting for compositional or functional changes in the communities (high-informative measures). Nearly one-half of the 221 included meta-analyses were based solely on low-informative measures. The prevalence of low-informative measures was higher for meta-analyses belonging to studies encompassing a broad taxonomic scope and it has increased since 2002. Few differences were detected in the use of response measures among taxonomic groups, although there were indications that some better-known groups tended to be more often studied with high-informative measures. To provide guidance for future work, we synthesized the high-informative measures of biodiversity used in the reviewed studies. For better-informed meta-analyses, we encourage the use of more refined approaches to quantify impacts on communities in addition to species richness and total abundance measures. This may involve, for example, the use of beta diversity and functional diversity measures, as well as separate analyses for different ecological groups or conservation status categories.
|
|
| 28. |
- Hjältén, Joakim, et al.
(author)
-
Biodiversity benefits for saproxylic beetles with uneven-aged silviculture
- 2017
-
In: Forest Ecology and Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-1127 .- 1872-7042. ; 402, s. 37-50
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Large scale use of even-aged silviculture (clear-cutting) commencing in the mid-20th century has had negative impacts on forest biodiversity. As a consequence, uneven-aged silviculture is currently being considered to help meet the ecological and social criteria required for sustainable forest management. Uneven-aged silviculture (e.g. selective felling) involves selective removal of some older trees in a stand which may to some extent mimics natural small scale stand dynamics and thus potentially benefit species associated with old forests. Here we test whether selective felling benefits beetle biodiversity by producing beetle assemblages that better resemble those of old growth stands than those found in uncut production stands. We conducted a field study in northern Sweden, comparing beetles assemblages collected with window traps in three spruce dominated stand types: (1) Stands recently (on average 7 years prior to the study) subjected to selective felling (Selective felling), (2) mature uneven-aged stands without recent history of management, resembling selective felling stands prior to management (Uncut), and (3) old-growth stands with high conservation values (Old growth). As predicted, we found that assemblage composition was similar in selective felling and old growth stands, and that assemblages of cambivores and obligate saproxylics (marginally significant) differed between these two stand types and uncut stands. The differences were largely explained by a higher abundance of saproxylic species presumably associated with old growth conditions and large volumes of deadwood. Thus, although overall assemblage composition did not differ between stand types, part of the beetle community seemingly benefited from selective felling. We therefore recommend that selective felling is considered as an alternative to clear-felling to maintain biodiversity values. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
|
|
| 29. |
- Hjältén, Joakim, et al.
(author)
-
Forest restoration by burning and gap cutting of voluntary set-asides yield distinct immediate effects on saproxylic beetles
- 2017
-
In: Biodiversity and Conservation. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0960-3115 .- 1572-9710. ; 26:7, s. 1623-1640
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Today, the importance of restoring natural forest disturbance regimes and habitat structures for biodiversity is widely recognized. We evaluated the immediate effects of two restoration methods on wood-inhabiting (saproxylic) beetles in boreal forest voluntary set-asides. We used a before-after control-impact experimental set-up in 15 set-asides; each assigned to one of three treatments: (1) restoration burning, (2) gap cutting and (3) no-treatment reference stands. Before treatment, abundance, species richness and assemblage composition of trapped beetles did not differ significantly among treatments. Burning resulted in a significant change in assemblage composition and increased species richness and abundance compared to reference stands. As predicted, saproxylic species known to be fire favoured increased dramatically after burning. The immediate response shows that, initially, fire favoured species are attracted from the surrounding landscape and not produced on site. Gap cutting increased the abundance of cambium consumers but had no significant effect on total species richness or assemblage composition of saproxylic beetles. The stronger effect of burning compared to gap cutting on saproxylic assemblages is probably due to the very specific conditions created by fires that attracts many disturbance-dependent species, but that at the same time disfavour some disturbance-sensitive species. By contrast, gap cutting maintained assemblage composition, increased abundances and is likely to increase species richness in the years to follow, due to elevated level of dead wood. The restoration methods applied in this study may prove particularly useful, partly because of positive effect on saproxylic beetles, but also due to the cost-efficiency of the measures; the voluntary set-asides were already established and the restoration costs fully covered by revenue from the extracted timber.
|
|
| 30. |
|
|
| 31. |
- Hägglund, Ruaridh, et al.
(author)
-
Restoration measures emulating natural disturbances alter beetle assemblages in boreal forest
- 2020
-
In: Forest Ecology and Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-1127 .- 1872-7042. ; 462
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Accelerating declines in biodiversity worldwide have accentuated the need for conservation actions. Unfortunately, the decline is unlikely to be reversed by traditional conservation alone, e.g., green tree retention at clear-felling and setting aside protected areas for free development. Instead the practice of ecological restoration has come to play an ever increasing role. Using a before-after control-impact experiment in boreal forest voluntary set-asides, we evaluated the usefulness of two methods of ecological restoration aimed at promoting biodiversity by emulating natural disturbances through restoration burning and artificial gap creation involving dead wood creation. In burned stands (n = 6) we removed up to 35% of the standing volume prior to burning, and in gap cut stands (n = 10) we removed the cut trees from every second gap; harvested trees covered costs for restoration. We used saproxylic and non-saproxylic beetles as a proxy for biodiversity to evaluate the two restoration methods. We compared species compositions of beetles collected with window traps one year before and one year after treatment. In addition, we compared catches in the treatments with those in untreated reference stands. Before treatment, we found no differences between the three groups of stands in terms of overall abundance, species richness or species composition. After treatment, the overall abundance of beetles was higher in the burned sites compared to the reference stands. Overall species richness was higher in burned stands compared to references and gap-cut stands. Gap-cut stands had higher species richness of cambivores and fire favoured species than reference stands. Species composition differed significantly between all three groups of stands. Among the 96 species that significantly contributed to the differences in species composition, 58 were more common in burned stands and 34 more common in gap-cut stands than in the other two stand groups. Nineteen of the 96 species are considered to be favored by forest fires, and 17 of these fire-favored species were more abundant in burned stands than gap-cut stands and/or references. Based on our results that burning and gap-cutting changed the beetle communities in partly different directions, we propose the use of both methods as complements to traditional conservation efforts in future attempts to improve conditions for biodiversity in managed boreal forest landscapes.
|
|
| 32. |
- Joelsson, Klara, et al.
(author)
-
Uneven-aged silviculture can reduce negative effects of forest management on beetles
- 2017
-
In: Forest Ecology and Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-1127 .- 1872-7042. ; 391, s. 436-445
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Decline in biodiversity have increased the interest in alternative forest management approaches. Uneven-aged silviculture has been proposed as a mean to maintain continuity of forest canopy cover, mimic small-scale disturbances and provide a stratified forest structure similar to that of old-growth forests and therefore better maintain species associated with unmanaged forest. We used a large-scale chronosequence study spanning 50 years to study beetle diversity in uneven-aged silviculture compared with both short-term impacts and the longer-term legacy of even-aged silviculture. We compared: (1) even-aged recently clear-felled stand, (2) even-aged recently thinned stand, (3) uneven-aged stands subjected to selective felling with (4) uneven-aged reference stands to evaluate whether abundance, species richness and composition of beetles (Coleoptera) were affected differently by even-aged than by uneven-aged management. We collected 15,147 beetles from 461 species using flight interception traps in 30 stands. Beetle composition was maintained in uneven-aged managed stands; composition did not differ from unmanaged reference stands, the exception being cambium consumers. Both even-aged silviculture treatments (clear-felling and thinning) had different beetle composition compared to the reference stands, indicating that assemblages had yet to recover even 50 years into the rotation. However, beetle composition did not differ between uneven-aged managed and thinned stands. The result supports our prediction that uneven-aged silviculture better maintains beetles assemblages associated with semi-natural mature forest than even-aged silviculture. The greater temporal continuity in selectively felled stands could benefit species dependent of mature or old growth forest since some of the needed habitat qualities are continuously available. Uneven-aged silviculture could therefore serve as an important tool for landscape planning to benefit biodiversity and thus help fulfil environmental commitments. However, uneven-aged silviculture may still alter the forest and should therefore be viewed as an alternative to even-aged silviculture, rather than to set-asides.
|
|
| 33. |
- Johansson, Therese, et al.
(author)
-
Long-term effects of clear-cutting on epigaeic beetle assemblages in boreal forests
- 2016
-
In: Forest Ecology and Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-1127 .- 1872-7042. ; 359, s. 65-73
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Management of boreal forests for timber production has caused changes in forest structures and disturbance regimes, which have influenced a wide range of organisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate how composition of epigaeic (ground-living) beetle assemblages is influenced by stand age and management history in a heavily managed boreal forest landscape. We compared the epigaeic assemblages among stands of three ages: (1) young (8-25 years) and (2) middle-aged (40-58 years) stands regrown after clear-cutting, and mature stands (80-130 years) that had been selectively cut historically but never clear felled. We sampled epigaeic beetles in each of 42 stands, using 10 pitfall traps during seven summer weeks. More than 9000 specimens were collected and identified. The assemblages in young stands differed from those in middle-aged and mature stands, both for the Staphylinidae (rove beetles) and all beetle families combined. Carabidae (ground beetles) composition differed between young and middle aged stands only, and assemblages of Curculionidae (weevils, bark beetles and allies) differed between young and mature stands only. Assemblages of Leiodidae (round fungus beetles) had similar composition in all three stand types. Considering all families, young stands generally harbored fewer species and lower abundances compared with middle aged and mature stands. However, the Leiodidae had similar species richness in all three stand types. The lack of differences in assemblage composition, species richness and abundance between middle aged and mature stands suggests that epigaeic beetle assemblages recolonize following clear-felling. However, our collections included large numbers of unique and usually rare species in mature stands, indicating that old forest is important for the conservation of epigaeic beetles. Furthermore, the lower abundance of these beetles in young stands indicates that an increasing proportion of young stands on managed landscapes will reduce the overall abundances of epigaeic beetle species, with potentially negative impacts on recolonization.
|
|
| 34. |
- Keskitalo, E. Carina H., 1974-, et al.
(author)
-
Adaptation to Climate Change in Swedish Forestry
- 2016
-
In: Forests. - Basel : MDPI AG. - 1999-4907. ; 7:2
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Adaptation to climate change in forestry has become a growing concern, in part due to the impact of storms and other events that have raised the awareness of such risks amongst forest owners. Sweden is one of Europe's most densely-forested countries, with this sector playing a major role economically. However adaptation has, to a large extent, been limited to the provision of recommendations to forest managers, most of which have only been partially implemented. This paper summarizes research with direct implications for adaptation to climate change within the forestry sector in Sweden. The focus is based in particular on providing examples of adaptations that illustrate the specific Swedish orientation to adaptation, in line with its relatively intensive forest management system. The paper thus illustrates a specific Swedish orientation to adaptation through active management, which can be contrasted with approaches to adaptation in other forestry systems, in particular those with limited management or management based on maintaining natural forests in particular.
|
|
| 35. |
- Lindahl, Karin Beland, et al.
(author)
-
The Swedish forestry model : more of everything?
- 2017
-
In: Forest Policy and Economics. - : Elsevier. - 1389-9341 .- 1872-7050. ; 77, s. 44-55
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- "The Swedish forestry model" refers to the forest regime that evolved following the 1993 revision of the Swedish Forestry Act. It is key to Swedish forest politics and used to capture the essence of a sustainable way of managing forests. However, the ideas, institutions and practices comprising the model have not been comprehensively analyzed previously. Addressing this knowledge gap, we use frame analysis and a Pathways approach to investigate the underlying governance model, focusing on the way policy problems are addressed, goals, implementation procedures, outcomes and the resulting pathways to sustainability. We suggest that the institutionally embedded response to pressing sustainability challenges and increasing demands is expansion, inclusion and integration: more of everything. The more-of-everything pathway is influenced by ideas of ecological modernization and the optimistic view that existing resources can be increased. Our findings suggest that in effect it prioritizes the economic dimension of sustainability. While broadening out policy formulation it closes down the range of alternative outputs, a shortcoming that hampers its capacity to respond to current sustainability challenges. Consequently, there is a need for a broad public debate regarding not only the role of forests in future society, but also the operationalization of sustainable development.
|
|
| 36. |
|
|
| 37. |
- Lindberg, Eva, et al.
(author)
-
Can Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) and Forest Estimates Derived from Satellite Images Be Used to Predict Abundance and Species Richness of Birds and Beetles in Boreal Forest?
- 2015
-
In: Remote Sensing. - : MDPI AG. - 2072-4292. ; 7, s. 4233-4252
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In managed landscapes, conservation planning requires effective methods to identify high-biodiversity areas. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of airborne laser scanning (ALS) and forest estimates derived from satellite images extracted at two spatial scales for predicting the stand-scale abundance and species richness of birds and beetles in a managed boreal forest landscape. Multiple regression models based on forest data from a 50-m radius (i.e., corresponding to a homogenous forest stand) had better explanatory power than those based on a 200-m radius (i.e., including also parts of adjacent stands). Bird abundance and species richness were best explained by the ALS variables "maximum vegetation height" and "vegetation cover between 0.5 and 3 m" (both positive). Flying beetle abundance and species richness, as well as epigaeic (i.e., ground-living) beetle richness were best explained by a model including the ALS variable "maximum vegetation height" (positive) and the satellite-derived variable "proportion of pine" (negative). Epigaeic beetle abundance was best explained by "maximum vegetation height" at 50 m (positive) and "stem volume" at 200 m (positive). Our results show that forest estimates derived from satellite images and ALS data provide complementary information for explaining forest biodiversity patterns. We conclude that these types of remote sensing data may provide an efficient tool for conservation planning in managed boreal landscapes.
|
|
| 38. |
- Lindberg, Eva, et al.
(author)
-
Can airborne laser scanning or satellite images, or a combination of the two, be used to predict the abundance and species richness of birds and beetles at a patch scale?
- 2014
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Management of forests for biodiversity conservation requires knowledge on the habitat needs of forest-dwelling species. Important habitat factors include local stand conditions such as forest structure and tree species composition as well as the amount and distribution of suitable local habitats in a surrounding landscape. Information at both these scales can be efficiently derived from remotely sensed data.Focusing on the European boreal forest, this paper presents an analysis of the relation between the local-scale abundance and species richness of forest-dwelling birds and beetles on the one hand, and information derived from airborne laser scanning (ALS) data and satellite images on the other. The aim is to answer the following questions: 1. Can ALS-data or satellite image data or a combination of the two be used to identify important habitats for forest dwelling beetles and birds in boreal forest? 2. Which type of remote sensing data can best explain biodiversity patterns for beetle and birds species in boreal forest? 3. How accurate can different remote sensing methods predict biodiversity patterns at different spatial scales?
|
|
| 39. |
- Lindberg, Eva, et al.
(author)
-
Does detailed vegetation structure derived from airborne laser scanning (ALS) contribute to prediction of abundance and species richness of birds and beetles in boreal forest?
- 2015
-
Conference paper (other academic/artistic)abstract
- In managed landscapes, conservation planning requires effective methods to identify high-biodiversity areas. Satellite images and airborne laser scanning (ALS) can provide information about vegetation over large areas. This study evaluates the potential of detailed vegetation structure derived from ALS data for predicting the stand-scale abundance and species richness of birds and beetles in a managed boreal forest landscape. Earlier results have shown that bird abundance and species richness were best explained by the ALS variables "maximum vegetation height" and "vegetation cover between 0.5 and 3 m" (both positive), while the abundance and species richness of flying beetles as well as epigaeic (i.e., ground-living) beetles were best explained by a model including the ALS variable "maximum vegetation height" (positive) and the satellite-derived variable "proportion of pine" (negative). Now we include new explanatory variables describing the size of the tree crowns and the patchiness of the canopy derived from ALS data. The results demonstrate the level of detail in vegetation structure that can be obtained from ALS data and the importance of this information compared to other variables derived from remote sensing on a coarser scale.
|
|
| 40. |
|
|
| 41. |
|
|
| 42. |
|
|
| 43. |
- Löfroth, Therese, et al.
(author)
-
Flow-on effects of an introduced tree species: Lodgepole pine plantation affects function and performance of boreal ants
- 2022
-
In: Forest Ecology and Management. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-1127 .- 1872-7042. ; 512
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Increased demand on forests to produce renewable biomass have accelerated the use of non-native tree species in forestry worldwide, often with negative effects on native biodiversity. In Sweden, the North American lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Douglas ex. Loudon var. latifolia) was introduced already in the 1970's. Even though the species now covers large areas, effects on native flora and fauna have not been thoroughly evaluated. In this study, we used a large-scale field experiment with 30 paired P. contorta and P. sylvestris stands in central and northern Sweden to study the effects of P. contorta plantation on the abundance and activity of red wood ants of the Formica rufa-group, density and species richness of other ant species, as well as possible effects on the abundance of the specialized ant predator Pella humeralis. We collected epigaeic insects with pit fall traps, surveyed wood ant mound density and volume, and monitored ant activity on trees in all stands. Our analyses revealed a trend with higher mound density in P. sylvestris compared with P. contorta stands, although wood ant worker catch did not differ between the pine species. However, red wood ant activity was significantly higher in P. sylvestris stands, suggesting that P. contorta is not a preferred tree species for the tending of aphids for honeydew. Total ant species richness as well as the catch of Camponotus herculeanus and Myrmica ruginodis were higher in P. sylvestris stands, suggesting that they constitute a more favorable habitat for ants. Ant species richness was negatively influenced by wood ants in P. sylvestris stands only. A similar pattern was shown for C. herculeanus. Myrmica ruginodis was more abundant in P. sylvestris stands only if no thinning had been applied. Wood ant catch was positively correlated with catch of the specialized predatory rove beetle Pella humeralis showing that there is a strong interaction between the predatory beetle and wood ants.Our results suggest that P. contorta plantations impact both red wood ants and associated species and although competition from wood ants is more pronounced in P. sylvestris stands they still constitute a more favorable habitat for most ant species. Thus, large scale plantation of the non-native but closely related P. contorta may negatively impact epigaeic assemblages, a pattern that is not compensated by released competition by dominant red wood ants.
|
|
| 44. |
|
|
| 45. |
- Mikusinski, Grzegorz, et al.
(author)
-
Introduction
- 2018
-
In: Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation. - : Cambridge University Press. ; , s. 1-8
-
Other publication (other academic/artistic)
|
|
| 46. |
- Månsson, Johan, et al.
(author)
-
Food plots as a habitat management tool: forage production and ungulate browsing in adjacent forest
- 2015
-
In: Wildlife Biology. - : Wiley. - 0909-6396 .- 1903-220X. ; 21, s. 246-253
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A key challenge for wildlife management is to handle competing goals. High ungulate densities may be desirable from hunting and recreational perspectives, but may come in conflict with needs to limit or reduce browsing damage. Since browsing intensity is negatively related to forage availability it may be possible to mitigate damage on forest by increasing forage availability within the landscape. A commonly used method to increase the attractiveness of a localized part of the landscape is to establish food plots. In a multiyear setup using enclosures, wildlife observations, field surveys, and controlled biomass removal, we studied food plots to document forage production, utilization by ungulates, and browsing on adjacent forests in southern Sweden. The fenced parts of the food plots produced on average 2230 to 5810 kg ha. 1 marrow-stem kale, second-year clover mix or early-sown rapeseed. The biomass of target crops was generally higher within ungrazed (exclosures) compared to grazed (controls) quadrats on the food plots, which demonstrates that the crops were used as forage by ungulates. Browsing on deciduous trees in the adjacent forest was higher within 70-135 m from the food plots compared to areas further away. For wildlife management, our study shows that establishment of food plots provides substantial amounts of forage both during growing season and at the onset of the dormant season, and that a large share of this food is consumed. Finally, our study documents that forage availability for ungulates at the onset of the often-limiting dormant season can be increased by fencing food plots throughout the growing season.
|
|
| 47. |
|
|
| 48. |
- Mårald, Erland, 1970-, et al.
(author)
-
Forest governance and management across time : developing a new forest social contract
- 2017
-
Book (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The influence of the past, and of the future on current-time tradeoffs in the forest arena are particularly relevant given the long-term successions in forest landscapes and the hundred years' rotations in forestry. Historically established path dependencies and conflicts determine our present situation and delimit what is possible to achieve. Similarly, future trends and desires have a large influence on decision making. Nevertheless, decisions about forest governance and management are always made in the present – in the present-time appraisal of the developed situation, future alternatives and in negotiation between different perspectives, interests, and actors.This book explores historic and future outlooks as well as current tradeoffs and methods in forest governance and management. It emphasizes the generality and complexity with empirical data from Sweden and internationally. It first investigates, from a historical perspective, how previous forest policies and discourses have influenced current forest governance and management. Second, it considers methods to explore alternative forest futures and how the results from such investigations may influence the present. Third, it examines current methods of balancing tradeoffs in decision-making among ecosystem services. Based on the findings the authors develop an integrated approach – Reflexive Forestry – to support exchange of knowledge and understandings to enable capacity building and the establishment of common ground. Such societal agreements, or what the authors elaborate as forest social contracts, are sets of relational commitment between involved actors that may generate mutual action and a common directionality to meet contemporary challenges.
|
|
| 49. |
- Orlikowska, Ewa, et al.
(author)
-
Gaps in ecological research on the world's largest internationally coordinated network of protected areas: A review of Natura 2000
- 2016
-
In: Biological Conservation. - : Elsevier BV. - 0006-3207 .- 1873-2917. ; 200, s. 216-227
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Natura 2000 (N2k) is a multinational and" coordinated conservation network designated to support the long-term survival of Europe's most valuable species and habitats. It is the key conservation tool in the European Union. We reviewed 510 peer-reviewed publications (period 1998-2014) focusing on ecological aspects of N2k, with the aims of identifying key research gaps and proposing future research priorities for improved conservation success. We categorized the articles by spatial scale, biogeographical regions, taxonomic groups, habitat types, and the analytical methods used. The majority of studies were performed in single N2k sites or at the regional level within countries. The Mediterranean region had the greatest number of publications and the terrestrial Black Sea, Macaronesia, Pannonian and Steppic regions were overrepresented in relation to their total area and to the area of N2k sites that they comprised. Grasslands, freshwater and wetland habitats were overrepresented in comparison to their area within N2k. Plants were the most commonly studied taxonomic group and quantitative empirical studies dominated. Future N2k research should address knowledge gaps by directing more efforts towards: 1) the Boreal region, 2) alpine, agricultural, forest and marine habitats, and 3) under represented taxonomic groups such as reptiles, amphibians, lichens and fungi. For enhanced evaluation and realization of the conservation potential of N2k, more studies will need to encompass large spatial scales and utilize modelling approaches to effectively address future climate and land-use changes. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
|
|
| 50. |
- Orlikowska, Ewa, et al.
(author)
-
Hit or miss? : Evaluating the effectiveness of Natura 2000 for conservation of forest bird habitat in Sweden
- 2020
-
In: Global Ecology and Conservation. - : ELSEVIER. - 2351-9894. ; 22
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Biodiversity conservation often requires a landscape perspective. When establishing the Natura 2000 (N2k) network, the effectiveness of the sites and the influence of the surrounding landscapes for species of interest was often disregarded. We analyzed the effectiveness of N2k sites in Sweden for three forest bird species of conservation interest in the European boreal landscapes: lesser spotted woodpecker (LSW), Siberian jay (SJ) and hazel grouse (HG). Our objectives were to: 1) quantify effective suitable habitat area in N2k sites with and without consideration of the adjoining landscapes; 2) examine effective habitat area within N2k sites along the north-south vegetation gradient 3) analyze functionality of N2k sites and assess how forests outside the sites affect habitat suitability inside N2k. GISbased habitat suitability index models were applied to calculate the amount of effective habitat within and outside N2k sites. N2k sites contributed with 10% (HG), 13% (SJ) and 51% (LSW) suitable habitat identified in Sweden. Functionality of forest environments as habitat was higher inside N2k sites for LSW within all vegetation zones, and for SJ in the Alpine and Middle Boreal zones; for HG habitat outside the sites was more functional in all zones accept Alpine and Middle Boreal. The majority of N2k sites were of quite small size (<500 ha) and the size influenced their functionality for LSW and HG, with larger N2k sites being more functional. For SJ, however, average functionality of N2k sites was not influenced by their size. The largest average habitat increase linked to considering the contribution of areas outside N2k sites for their functionality as habitat was for the N2k sites of smaller size (1-500 ha). Therefore, the presence and quality of forests outside of N2k sites are of a greater importance for smaller sites, and as such these should be carefully managed. To improve conservation efficiency of the N2k sites in Sweden, we call for incorporating them into the development and implementation of the regional Green Infrastructure plans. (C) 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.
|
|
