A review of the plant communities associated with Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) in Europe, and an evaluation of putative indicator/specialist species

Abstract

Plant communities dominated by Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine) occur over an extraordinarily wide range of climatic and edaphic conditions. The salient features of communities from different parts of Europe are outlined, drawing mainly on phytosociological literature. The degree to which a number of specialist species (mainly mycotrophic herbs) are associated with Scots pine is assessed. We conclude that no species or species group is associated with Scots pine through all or even most of its geographic and edaphic range. It follows that separate indicators of semi-natural Scots pine-dominated communities must be sought for different regions and different habitat-types.