Abstract
Reliable information on stand dynamics and development is needed to improve management decisions on mixed forests, and essential tools for this purpose are forest growth and yield (G&Y) models. In this study, stand-level G&Y models were built for cohorts within the natural mixed second-growth Nothofagus-dominated forests in Chile. All currently available (but limited) data, consisting of a series of stratified temporary and permanent plots established in the complete range of this forest type, were used to fit and validate these models. Linear and nonlinear models were considered, where dominant stand age, number of trees, and the proportion of basal area of Nothofagus species resulted in significant predictors to project future values of stand basal area for the different cohorts (with R2 > 0.51 for the validation datasets). Mortality was successfully modeled (R2 = 0.79), based on a small set of permanent plots, using the concept of self-thinning with a proposed model defined by the idea that, as stands get closer to a maximum density, they experience higher levels of mortality. The evaluation of these models indicated that they adequately represent the current understanding of dynamics of basal area and mortality of Nothofagus and companion species in these forests. These are the first models fitted over a large geographical area that consider the dynamics of these mixed forests. It is suggested that the proposed models should constitute the main components of future implementations of G&Y model systems.
Highlights
Computational tools such as growth and yield (G&Y) models can be used by forest professionals to plan and implement management strategies at the local or regional scale
Growth and yield (G&Y) models for mixed forests were first developed during the 20th century, more than 150 years after such models were first implemented on commercial tree plantations [2]
All plots were established in second growth RORACO forests in Chile, and they are located between the 36◦ and 42◦ S latitude
Summary
Computational tools such as growth and yield (G&Y) models can be used by forest professionals to plan and implement management strategies at the local or regional scale. Growth and yield (G&Y) models for mixed forests were first developed during the 20th century, more than 150 years after such models were first implemented on commercial tree plantations [2]. Dealing with natural mixed forests presents difficulties on the establishing and remeasuring of inventory plots often over a wide geographical range, resulting in time-consuming and costly efforts. There is a need to unambiguously identify tree species and to sample over a range of forest conditions [1]. This has resulted in limited datasets, with few high-quality sample plots for the development and testing of growth and yield models in most mixed forests, often lacking long-term remeasurements
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
