Sanja Perić

Characterization of the structure, dynamics, and productivity of mixed-species stands: review and perspectives

The growth and yield of mixed-species stands has become an important topic of research since there are certain advantages of this type of forest as regards functions and services. However, the concepts and methods used to characterize mixed stands need to be understood, as well as harmonized and standardized. In this review we have compiled a set of measures, indices, and methods at stand level to characterize the structure, dynamics, and productivity of mixed stands, and we discuss the pros and cons of their application in growth and yield studies. Parameters for the characterization of mixed stand structure such as stand density, species composition, horizontal (intermingling) and vertical tree distribution pattern, tree size distribution, and age composition are described, detailing the potential as well as the constraints of these parameters for understanding resource capture, use, and efficiency in mixed stands. Furthermore, a set of stand-level parameters was evaluated to characterize the dynamics of mixed stands, e.g. height growth and space partitioning, self- and alien-thinning, and growth partitioning among trees. The deviations and changes in the behaviour of the analysed parameters in comparison with pure stand conditions due to inter-specific interactions are of particular interest. As regards stand productivity, we reviewed site productivity indices, the growth–density relationship in mixed stands as well as methods to compare productivity in mixed versus monospecific stands. Finally, we discuss the main problems associated with the methodology such as up-scaling from tree to stand level as well as the relevance of standardized measures and methods for improving forest growth and yield research in mixed stands. The main challenges are also outlined, especially the need for qualitatively sound data.

First evidence of Paraheligmonina gracilis and Hymenolepis sulcata among fat dormice (Glis glis L.) from Croatia

SummaryThe present study reports for the first time on the helminth species occurring in the gastro-intestinal system of fat dormice (Glis glis) in Croatia. Out of 55 dormice, 63.7 % harboured helminths belonging to two species, the nematode Paraheligmonina gracilis (syn. Longistriata elpatievskii) (Heligmonellidae, Trichostrogyloidea) in the prevalence of 52.7 %, and the cestode Hymenolepis sulcata (Hymenolepididae, Cyclophyllidea) in the prevalence of 32.7 %. Concurrent infections of both parasites were found in 12 fat dormice, P. gracilis alone was detected in 17 hosts and H. sulcata alone in 6 samples. No influence of parasitic infestation on animal weight was observed. Glirid helminths do not represent zoonotic pathogens despite the fact that dormice occasionally inhabit cottages and village houses, and are used in human nutrition.

Applying survival analysis for estimating and comparing flushing time variability

Survival analysis is class of statistical methods for studying the occurrence and timing of many different kinds of events. In this research we applied survival analysis for comparing and estimating flushing times of sixteen protrenances of Penduculate Oak (euercus Robur L.). Flushing time is a very important feature of the physiological character and it is known that later flushing Oak has some good properties that are preserved even when it is grown on non-native sites. The survival analysis showed significant difference in flushing time of sixteen provenances and based on these results some later flushing Oak provenances were determined.

Morfološke značajke kontejnerskih sadnica hrasta lužnjaka (Quercus robur L.) iz sjemenske regije gornja Posavina i Pokuplje (1.2.3.)

Sume uređajnog razreda hrasta lužnjaka (Quercus robur L.) u Republici Hrvatskoj prostiru se na povrsini od oko 200.000 ha. S obzirom na velicinu