Biogeomorphological domination of forest landscapes: An example from the Šumava Mountains, Czech Republic

Abstract

Biogeomorphological and ecological succession following a disturbance or the exposure of new ground often proceeds in stages, from domination by abiotic, geophysical factors through stages characterized by increasing effects of biota, biotic-abiotic feedbacks, and eventual domination by ecological processes. However, some studies in forest settings have found more varied development patterns, including persistence of states dominated by biogeomorphic feedbacks. In this study we investigated this phenomenon In Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) dominated forests on the main ridge of the Šumava Mountains in the Czech Republic along the German and Austrian borders. Throughout most of the Holocene, Picea has strongly influenced microtopography and soil/regolith characteristics so as to inhibit hydrological connectivity and development of surface drainage, and maintain hydromorphic soil conditions. These strongly historically and geographically contingent ecosystem engineering effects create and maintain habitat that favors spruce over other trees. These interactions have maintained a landscape dominated by biogeomorphic feedbacks.