Beech Research Articles

Comparative Understory Development in Fenced and Unfenced Beech Forest Stands in the Southern Alps

This study examines the impact of ungulate browsing on the understory dynamics of the Cansiglio Forest, the only European beech high forest in the Southern Limestone Alps. Utilizing seven pairs of fenced versus unfenced forest stands established over two decades, we assessed how fencing affects understory structure and tree regeneration. Significant differences were found in cover, height and vascular species composition in both tree regeneration and shrub layers. Fenced areas showed a significantly higher number and greater average height of young trees, supporting the hypothesis that ungulate browsing negatively impacts tree regeneration. Despite previous studies attributing the lack of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) regeneration primarily to red deer (Cervus elaphus Linnaeus, 1758) browsing, our findings did not show a significant association of this species with fenced conditions. While Rubus abundance was higher inside fenced areas, overall vascular species richness did not differ. Our results highlight the evident effects of ungulate browsing and suggest the need to consider other factors influencing forest regeneration and understory development. Future research should establish additional study replicates, balanced across diverse site and stand structure conditions, to further explore these dynamics.

Effects of Forest Management on Beetle (Coleoptera) Communities in Beech Forests (Fagus sylvatica) in the Apennines of Central Italy (Tuscany)

In European mountains most beech forest areas have been managed for timber production. This practice has reduced the availability of biomass for the whole forest-dwelling species assemblage and of deadwood for the saproxylic community. Despite most of Italy’s beech stands having a long history of management, its effects on forest species remain poorly understood. To address this gap, we studied beetle abundance and diversity in five beech-dominated forests with increasing management intensity in central Italy’s Apennines (Tuscany). We assessed if forests with similar management intensity exhibited comparable patterns in beetle diversity, abundance, and commonness versus rarity. Three forests were managed with even-aged shelterwood; one was managed with continuous cover forestry; and one was old-growth. We found 25 beetle families and 195 species across all sites with similar total abundance and richness. However, the representation of the most abundant families varied among sampling sites (ANOVA test: always significant for the total abundance of the most abundant families: F ≥ 2.77, d.f. = 4, p ≤ 0.038). The old-growth forest harbored more threatened species than managed sites. Saproxylic assemblages were similar between the recently cut site and the old-growth forest, and between shelterwood and continuous cover sites. While the similarity gradient among the whole species assemblages reflected geographical proximity, the similarity gradient among saproxylic assemblages reflected the successional proximity among forest management systems. Our research underscores the effects of management on beetle diversity, offering insights for sustainable forestry.

Incipient decay in beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and linden (Tilia cordata Mill.): An interspecific static and dynamic material analysis

With increasing awareness of the ecological value of trees in urban areas, there is a growing need to preserve mature specimens often colonised by wood-decay fungi. Nonetheless, cases of stem collapse or uprooting of such trees under adverse weather conditions remain a significant issue requiring further investigation. Depending on the decay type and the wood structure of the host tree, different combinations of wood-decaying fungi and host species can have varying impacts on the mechanical and vibroacoustic properties of green wood. This study compares the physical and mechanical properties of green European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and small-leaved linden (Tilia cordata Mill.) artificially exposed to Fomes fomentarius (L.) Fr. and Kretzschmaria deusta (Hoff.) P.M.D. Martin after different exposure periods. Mass loss (ML) caused by both fungi differed according to the wood species. A statistically significant difference between the two fungal species was observed in beech wood, but not in linden. Significant differences in the modulus of rupture (MOR) and dynamic bending modulus of elasticity (MOED) were observed among the fungus-wood combinations, also depending on the exposure time. The relationships between ML and MOR varied according to the fungal species, where at the same ML values, K. deusta caused a higher MOR loss in both wood species. Strong relationships between MOED and MOR were demonstrated for all fungus-wood combinations, without significant differences related to the decay type. The MOED is a reliable parameter for predicting MOR loss even at incipient degradation stages, irrespective of the type of decay. The presented results can lead to better prediction of the impact of fungal colonization on standing trees and improve non-destructive methods used for tree stability assessment.

Anti-Leptospira Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors among Forestry Workers in Lower Saxony, North-West Germany.

As leptospirosis is re-emerging, a seroprevalence study was conducted, assessing the prevalence of anti-Leptospira IgG antibodies and infection-associated risk factors among forestry workers (FWs) in Lower Saxony, Germany, to develop targeted public health measures. Sera of 877 FWs, sampled in 2016, were tested for anti-Leptospira seropositivity by commercial IgG-ELISA. Data on demographics and Leptospira-specific exposures, knowledge, sources of information, and preventive measures were collected by standardized, self-administered questionnaire. A subset of 244 sera was retested via in-house IgG-ELISA. Risk factors were assessed from the subset using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The commercial IgG-ELISA revealed a seroprevalence of 4.8% (95% confidence interval CI95 = 3.5-6.4). Of the 601 FWs who completed the questionnaire, 67.9% had been informed about leptospirosis and Leptospira spp., mainly by employers (55.2%) and peers (38.9%). Positive associations with seropositivity were observed for canoeing (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.35, p = 0.044), touching rodents (aOR = 2.4, p = 0.021), and living close to beech trees (aOR = 2.18, p = 0.075). Frequently cleaning animal stables was negatively associated (aOR = 0.20, p = 0.002). The unexpected positive association with wearing gloves when handling plants and soil (aOR = 2.16, p = 0.011) needs further discussion. Overall, seroprevalence was in the range of other studies in Germany. The identified factors will be used to develop targeted information reaching out to at-risk groups tapping various communication channels.

Functional traits in soil-living oribatid mites unveil trophic reorganization in belowground communities by introduced tree species

Biodiversity loss and its potential threat on ecosystem functions call for a critical evaluation of human impacts on forest ecosystems. Management practices based on stand diversification offer a possible solution to biodiversity loss due to monoculture plantations, and these practices often involve planting introduced tree species. Although introduced non-native tree species may provide high economic returns, they may also form novel ecosystems and threaten local biodiversity, but this has been little studied. Here, we combined a taxonomic and trait-based approach and investigated communities of oribatid mites (Oribatida, Acari) across forest types of both native and introduced tree species in Northern Germany. Both trophic and life-history traits of oribatid mites were evaluated using native European beech (Fagus sylvatica) as reference, compared to native Norway spruce (Picea abies), introduced Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and beech-conifer mixtures. The abundance and diversity of oribatid mites were generally similar among monocultures of European beech, Norway spruce and Douglas fir. By contrast, species and trait compositions of oribatid mite communities were shifted to include more primary decomposers and more surface-living oribatid mites in Douglas fir, resulting in a trophic reorganization with less predators than in European beech forests. These results suggest that oribatid mites maintain a similar level of trait diversity regardless of forest type, but the changes in trophic guild composition and vertical distribution indicate greater availability of litter-based resources in Douglas fir than in European beech forests. The similar abundance and diversity of oribatid mite communities in Douglas fir mixed stands as in native European beech forests points to mixed forests as a promising management option for future forestry. Overall, our trait-based analyses provided insights into the changes of soil biota composition, revealing the impact of introduced tree species on the structure and functions of soil animal communities.

Physical and mechanical properties of different beech wood species grown at various climate conditions: a review

Abstract Beech wood, renowned for its diverse applications spanning construction, flooring, furniture, veneer, and plywood, holds a paramount position among industrial wood species. Nevertheless, the myriad of beech species worldwide, coupled with the dynamic impact of climate change, have produced structural variations within beech trees. Extensive research has scrutinized the physical and mechanical attributes of beech wood species across the globe. Findings reveal distinguishable mechanical strength, yet increased density leads to notable rates of shrinkage and swelling, somewhat constraining its utility in select domains. Identifying research gaps can create new efforts aimed at exploiting the potential of these wood resources. This paper outperforms a mere exploration of beech wood properties over the past two decades; it delves into the ramifications of climatic fluctuations, temperature shifts, wind dynamics, and soil composition. Given the lack of a comprehensive compendium documenting the full range of physical, mechanical, and microscopic attributes of the Fagus genus, this paper aims to compile information that integrates this multifaceted information.

Neka fizička i mehanička svojstva kavkaske bukovine pregrijane u otpadnome maslinovu ulju

This study set out to look into some of the mechanical and physical characteristics of oil-heated oriental beech wood. Waste olive oil was used for oil-heat treatment. Heat treatment of the oil was done at 200 °C and 230 °C for 2 hours and 4 hours, respectively. After oil-heat treatment, physical traits including oven-dry density and water absorption levels, as well as mechanical traits like compression strength parallel to the grain (CSPG), were determined. Oven dry density of wood increased significantly after being heated in oil. Compared to the control groups, waste olive oil heat-treated (WOHT) oriental beech showed lower levels of water absorption. At 200 °C for 4 h, CSPG of waste olive oil heat-treated wood were at their highest, and then they steadily fell as the temperature and treatment time rose.

Total Carbon Storage in Uneven-Aged Pure Beech Stands in the Western Part of the Balkans

Forest ecosystems represent one of the largest and most important ecosystems on Earth, containing close to 80% of the biomass of our planet. As such, they play a significant role in the global carbon cycle because through photosynthesis, forests absorb more carbon than they emit and thus accumulate it. The most important species in deciduous forests in Europe, European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), is of exceptional importance from the aspect of carbon storage. Considering that the state of carbon in pure beech forests is poorly investigated in the western part of the Balkans, the need for total carbon research was imposed to complete the picture of its stocks and factors that impact it. Research on total carbon (TC) storage in uneven-aged pure beech stands in the western part of the Balkans was carried out in three regions located approximately at the same latitude, but different longitude, imposing different macro-habitat characteristics. This research aimed to determine the TC stock and to examine the effects of orographic factors, stand canopy, and macroclimate on its values. TC stock in forest biomass was determined using appropriate regression equations and formulas, while soil organic carbon stock was determined using ICP forests methodology. Effects of different factors on carbon stock were examined using ANOVA (Type II Sums of Squares), General Linear Hypothesis Test (GLHT), and regression analyses. It was found that the largest TC stock is located in the region of Eastern Serbia (SRB) where its macroclimate is classified as suitable for hornbeam and sessile oak or mixed beech-oak stands. It was found that anthropogenic activity plays a significant role in the size of the carbon stock stored in above-ground biomass via alteration of forest canopy. The results also indicate that Aboveground Carbon (AGC) stocks are approximately proportional to Belowground Carbon (BGC; C in belowground biomass + soil C) stocks. What makes the difference is the structure of BGC, as the share of Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) is higher in the regions of Eastern Republic of Srpska (ERS) and Western Republic of Srpska (WRS), which are climatically classified as highly suitable for beech. Further analysis has shown that the amount of SOC decreases with increasing aridity levels. Given the results, management goals should be aimed at increasing the stock of biomass for the sake of carbon sequestration and for reducing the adverse effects of climate change, as a large amount of carbon can be stored in the above-ground and belowground biomass.

Homogenization of the Color of Beech Sapwood and False Heartwood by the Steaming Process

This work presents the results of the homogenization of the color of sapwood and false heartwood Fagus sylvatica L. into a uniform color shade due to the influence of the temperature of saturated moist air and saturated water steam in individual steaming modes. The results of analyses of the influence of temperature within 24 h point out the different changes in the color of the sapwood and the wood of the false heartwood when the uniform color of the beech wood is achieved by the steaming process. By steaming beech wood with a false heartwood saturated with moist air at a temperature of tI = 95 °C during τ = 24 h, the color of the sapwood does not merge with the color of the wood of the false heartwood. The sapwood darkens and, on the other hand, the wood of the false heartwood slightly lightens, while the significant color contrast is removed, but the color homogenization in the individual zones does not occur. The unification of the colors in individual zones occurs during the steaming process at a temperature of saturated water steam tII ≈ 105 °C in 18 h, where the resulting brown color is identified in the color space CIE L*a*b* by the values of the lightness L* = 61.3 ± 2.2 and of the red color a* = 12.4 ± 1.3 and yellow color b* = 19.5 ± 1.4. The most pronounced homogenization of the color occurs through the steaming process at a temperature of saturated water steam tIII ≈ 120 °C, where the wood acquires a uniform dark brown–gray color in a time of τ ≈ 9 h steaming. The coordinates of the color-homogenized steamed beech wood are L* = 55.9 ± 1.9, a* = 12.3 ± 1.2, and b* = 19.6 ± 1.3. The unification of the colors by the steaming process is achieved by darkening both the sapwood and the wood of the false heartwood. In the overall color homogenization, the sapwood and the wood of the false heartwood do not participate equally in the steaming process. While the total color difference between the sapwood and a color homogenized state is quantified by the value ∆EtI* = 8, ∆EtIII* = 22.7, the total color difference in the wood with a false heartwood is only ∆EtI* = 1.9, ∆EtIII* = 11.8.

Decametric-scale buffering of climate extremes in forest understory within a riparian microrefugia: the key role of microtopography.

Riparian corridors often act as low-land climate refugia for temperate tree species in their southern distribution range. A plausible mechanism is the buffering of regional climate extremes by local physiographic and biotic factors. We tested this idea using a 3-year-long microclimate dataset collected along the Ciron river, a refugia for European beech (Fagus sylvatica) in southwestern France. Across the whole network, canopy gap fraction was the main predictor for spatial microclimatic variations, together with two other landscape features (elevation above the river and woodland fraction within a 300m radius). However, within the riparian forest only (canopy gap fraction < 25%, distance to the river < 150m), variations of up to -4°C and + 15% in summertime daily maximum air temperature and minimum relative humidity, respectively, were still found from the plateau to the cooler, moister river banks, only ~ 5-10m below. Elevation above the river was then identified as the main predictor, and explained the marked variations from the plateau to the banks much better than canopy gap fraction. The microclimate measured near the river is as cool but moister than the macroclimate encountered at 700-1000m asl further east in F. sylvatica's main distribution range. Indeed, at all locations, we found that air relative humidity was higher than expected from a temperature-only effect, suggesting that extra moisture is brought by the river. Our results explain well why beech trees in this climate refugium are restricted to the river gorges where microtopographic variations are the strongest and canopy gaps are rare.

Elasto-plastic material model of green beech wood

Physically modelling the mechanical response of a tree by numerical simulation depends on having accurate data on the mechanical properties of green hardwood. Lacking such data, we developed and validated an orthotropic elasto-plastic (E–P) material model, based on the results of experiments performed on European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) green wood, capable of including both the non-linearity and orthotropic properties of the material. We selected 655 clear samples with the special orthotropic structure of annual rings. All samples were prepared immediately after felling; their moisture content (MC) was 80% on average. The mechanical responses in normal directions and shear are represented by bi-linear stress–strain curves. The E–P model was validated by comparing the force–deflection response of three-point bending of green wood samples in a finite-element method (FEM) simulation (the average relative error was 4.6% for point-wise and 1.7% for integral-wise comparison). The output of this work was a consistent set of material constants for the E–P material model that is now available for the structural analysis of beech wood with MC above to fibre saturation point (FSP), especially green wood, subjected to relatively high loads (such that a plastic deformation appears) and that can very well predict a non-linear response above the proportional limits.

Evaluation of Productivity and Cost Analysis on a Combined Logging System

The efficient planning and control of timber harvesting operations is crucial to growth productivity and reducing costs, and different systems or methods are applied to obtain elevated performance. In particular, cable yarding is a highly appreciated and very efficient wood extraction method in areas that are difficult to access with ground-based extraction machines. Combined logging systems are not diffuse and not often implemented. For this reason, the use and the application of innovative methods are limited. However, some combinations have recently been observed in forest operations. This study, conducted in a deciduous stand in Bulgaria, paid attention to the combination of a tractor-mounted tower yarder (Valentini V400) with a clambunk skidder (Timberjack 1010D), aiming to examine the viability and develop the operational efficiency of the two-stage extraction system and to define the time, log volume extracted per unit by the yarder and the clambunk, and the yarding and skidding costs. The researchers carried out a time-motion study and performed a regression analysis to identify those variables that are most likely to affect the duration of work elements and productivity. For cost analysis, the COST model was used. The mean productivity of the tower yarder was 10.34 m3/PMH and 8.11 m3/SMH, while for the clambunk skidder, the productivity was 6.23 m3/PMH and 4.93 m3/SMH. The net costs for the combined logging system were calculated as 120.87 €/PMH and 14.93 €/m3. This study adds new data about the correct use of both machines, supporting their application in beech forests.

Catalogue of Palamocladium euchloron (Müll. Hal.) Wijk et Margad. (Hypnales, Brachytheciaceae) specimens deposited in the State Museum of Natural History NASU, Lviv, Ukraine

The species Palamocladium euchloron (Müll. Hal.) Wijk et Margad. is distributed in Southern Europe (Greece), in the Caucasus, in Asia (Turkey, Iran, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, China). Findings in the Mountainous Crimea: Kirovskyi district, Agarmysh Mt. in the vicinity of the Old Crimea town, Old Crimea; Khapkhal Gorge near the Dzhur-Dzhur waterfall on the East Ulu-Uzen River, Crimean Nature Reserve, upper reaches of the Alma River; Bakhchysaraiskyi district, near the Bakhchysarai town, Sokolyne and Mashyne villages, Chufut-Kale rock . The species is scientifically significant as a relict (tertiary) one. This moss grows on the soil, on shaded limestone rocks and stones in oak and beech forests. The plant is dioecious. In the Crimea it does not form sporogonies and reproduces vegetatively. Palamocladium euchloron (Müll. Hal.) Wijk et Margad. is protected in the Crimean Nature Reserve, Khapkhalskyi hydrological reserve and the Agarmyskyi Forest landmark of nature . The species is recorded for the Staryi Krym vicinity in the work of M.P. Slobodian . The species is given in the study of fossil Pliocene bryoflora for the territory of Poland . Specimens of the Palamocladium euchloron (Müll. Hal.) Wijk et Margad., represented in the SMNH collection, were collected from the territory of the Crimean Peninsular (Bakhchysarai (Slobodian, 1969), Kirovsky district (Slobodian, 1966), Sudak town (Slobodian, 1968), Sokolyne village (Slobodian, 1969), Mashyne village (Slobodian, 1969), Golovkinskyi waterfall (Melnychuk, 1954); from the territory of Krasnodar Krai (Russia) territory were collected in Krasnaia Poliana (Lazarenko, 1937), from the territory of Azerbaijan near Novo-Alekseevka village (Окснер, 1936). The museum collection contains 14 specimens of Palamocladium euchloron (Müll. Hal.) Wijk et Margad. Two specimens are exsiccates (Institutum Botanicum nomine V.L. Komarivii Academiae Scientiarum URSS, 1961). Samples were collected by M.P. Slobodian, V.M. Melnychuk, A.S. Lazarenko, A.M. Oksner. Exsiccates were collected by I.I. Abramov and A.L. Abramova. Most specimens were collected in the second half of the 20th century. The specimens of A.S. Lazarenko and A.M. Oksner belong to the first half of the 20th century. The species has been included into the Red Data Book of Ukraine with conservation status: Rare. This article was written with the support of the National Research Foundation of Ukraine, call 2022.01 «Science for the Recovery of Ukraine in the War and Post-War Periods» the project 2022.01/0013 «Digitization of natural history collections damaged as a result of hostilities and related factors: development of protocols and implementation on the basis of the State Museum of Natural History of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine». The contents of this article do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Research Foundation of Ukraine and are the sole responsibility of the State Museum of Natural History, NAS of Ukraine.

Catalogue of Nebria picicornis (Fabricius, 1792) (Coleoptera, Carabidae) specimens deposited in the State Museum of Natural History NASU, Lviv, Ukraine

The species Nebria picicornis (Fabricius, 1792) belongs to the genus, distributed in the Palaearctic, Middle East and North Africa, and represented by more than 500 described species (Catalogue of Life, 2023). In Ukraine, the genus is represented by 9 species. Nebria picicornis (Fabricius, 1792) has been recorded from thefollowing localities in Ukraine: outskirts of Sambir town, Spas village (Nowicki, 1858), the Eastern Beskydy up to Chornohora range (Nowicki, 1864), Ivano-Frankivsk city at the Bystrytsia river, in the river silt deposits (Łomnicki, 1886), beech forest zone of the Carpathians (Nowicki, 1873), Galicia, Bukovyna, Podilska gubernias , Zelemianka river, Bolekhiv town , NR «Gorgany» , foothill and lowland areas of the Carpathians: Ciscarpathian Upland, Beskydy massif, Gorgany massif, Pokutsko-Bukovynski Carpathians, Krasna range, as well as the Klavdievo village near Kyiv city, 10.V.1976 р., 2 spec., V.G. Dolin (IZU) , the Carpathians (including the Ciscarpathian Upland with foothills above 300 m a.s.l.), Right-Bank Polissia (mixed forest zone), Broadleaf Forest Zone (including the Ciscarpathian Upland, but with foothills of the Carpathians up to 300 m a.s.l. and Male Polissia) . Nebria picicornis (Fabricius, 1792) is distributed in the mountains and foothills of Central Europe and the northern part of southern Europe (Burakowski et al., 1973). In Ukraine it is found in the belts of oak and beech forests and lives along the banks of rivers and streams . There are 34 specimens of Nebria picicornis (Fabricius, 1792) in the collection of the State Museum of Natural History NASU, Lviv. The beetles were collected by Łomnicki M., Polianskyi S., Stöckl A., Susulovskyi A.S., Rizun V.B. Most of them were collected in the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, a number of individuals – in recent decades. Three specimens (Inventory numbers: E2.19.01.08.02//17, Digital record number: SMNH010749, Data Centre “Biodiversity of Ukraine”: ID 58124; Inventory numbers: E2.19.01.08.02//18, Digital record number: SMNH010750, Data Centre “Biodiversity of Ukraine”: ID 58125; Inventory numbers: E2.19.01.08.02//19, Digital record number: SMNH010751, Data Centre “Biodiversity of Ukraine”: ID 58126) most probably were mentioned in the work by M. Łomniсki (Łomnicki M. Muzeum imienia Dzieduszyckich we Lwowe. Dział I. Zoologiczny oddział zwierząt bezkręgowych. IV. Chrząszcze, czyli Tęgoskrzydłe (Coleoptera). – Lwów, 1886. – 308 s.). In general, the collection contains specimens, collected from Ukraine: Lvivska, Ivano-Frankivska, Chernivetska, Zakarpatska provinces, and from Poland. Some part of the presented material was collected in nature conservation areas of Ukraine: the Nature Reserve «Gorgany», National Nature Parks «Boikivshchyna», «Carpathian» and «Hutsulshchyna». This article was written with the support of the National Research Foundation of Ukraine, call 2022.01 «Science for the Recovery of Ukraine in the War and Post-War Periods» the project 2022.01/0013 «Digitization of natural history collections damaged as a result of hostilities and related factors: development of protocols and implementation on the basis of the State Museum of Natural History of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine». The contents of this article do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Research Foundation of Ukraine and are the sole responsibility of the State Museum of Natural History, NAS of Ukraine.

Catalogue of Bombus wurflenii Radoszkowski, 1860 (Hymenoptera, Apidae) specimens deposited in the State Museum of Natural History NASU, Lviv, Ukraine

Bombus wurflenii Radoszkowski, 1860 belongs to the subgenus Alpigenobombus and is one of the 40 bumblebee species that occur in Ukraine. This Boreal-Alpine species has a disjunctive range and is confined to the mountains and hills of Europe. It occurs in Scandinavia, in central and southern Europe (the Cantabrian Mountains, the Pyrenees, the Alps, the Apennines, the Balkans, the Carpathians). It is also known from the far east of Europe (the Ural Mountains), and from the north-eastern Turkey and the Caucasus (Rasmont, Iserbyt, 2010-2012; Rasmont et al., 2015). All scenarios of future distribution of Bombus wurflenii project a moderate reduction of suitable areas by 2050. By 2100 the climatic niche space of the species would be even more restricted. With low dispersal capability and since Bombus wurflenii is a specialized species linked to cold boreal and alpine-subalpine conditions, it would suffer substantially from global warming (Rasmont et al., 2015). Bombus wurflenii is a medium sized bumblebee. It is highly adapted for “nectar robbing”, i. e. perforating holes at the base of long flower corollas to reach the nectar. To do this, it uses its modified mandibles, each with six denticles on outer margin . In Ukraine the species is represented by the subspecies B. wurflenii mastrucatus Gerst. and occurs in the Ukrainian Carpathians only. It inhabits mountain forests from a height of 500 m a. s. l. to the subalpine zone inclusive. The highest number of population of the species is observed within the altitude range of 800-1100 m above sea level (Konovalova, 2010). B. wurflenii is nesting underground, using the abandoned nests of rodents in beech, beech-spruce and spruce forests, in polonynas, meadows and also on rocky slopes in the subalpine. The emergence of queens from hibernation happens in late spring and early summer. The development of small colonies lasts until July-August, culminating in the emergence of new reproductive generation. In the Carpathian highlands B. wurflenii is considered a common one. However, during last decades, the destruction of both nesting sites and forage flora of this species due to excessive recreational pressure, is a serious factor threatening the persistence of its population. For this reason, B. wurflenii has been included into the Red Book of the Ukrainian Carpathians as vulnerable one, also taking into account a relatively limited area inhabited by populations of the species. The species plays a significant role in the pollination of high mountain flora. A feeding diet of this bumblebee in the Ukrainian Carpathians includes at least 23 plant species belonging to 16 families (unpublished data of the author). Among its favourite forage plants are: Centaurea phrygia subsp. carpatica (Porcius) Dostál, Cirsium waldsteinii Rouy, Gentiana asclepiadea L., Rhododendron kotschyi Simonk., Vaccinium spp., Aconitum spp. In the entomological collection of the State Museum of Natural History, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 42 specimens of B. wurflenii have been deposited. Only one specimen belongs to an old historical collection. It was collected from the Tatry Mts. in Poland on 30.07.1905 and identified by J. Snieżek. From the present territory of Ukraine B. wurflenii was recorded for the first time in 1939 in Chornohora mountain range, at an altitude of 1500 m a.s.l. (Fudakowski et al., 1939). The recent part of the collection includes specimens, found from 2000 to 2006 in mountain regions of Ivano-Frankivska and Zakarpatska provinces of Ukraine (fig. 1). The recent collection of B. wurflenii represents all three castes of the species: 1 queen, 32 workers and 8 males. Bumblebees were collected during June, July and August within altitudes of 800-1700 m a.s.l. in the following physiographic regions: UC: PlChr: Chornohora massif; UC: PlChr: Svydovets massif; UC: OCVV: Gg: Outer Gorgany range. The vast majority of specimens have been collected in protected territories: Carpathian Biosphere Reserve (Chornohora protected massif, Svydovets protected massif) and Carpathian National Nature Park.

Distribution of Colchicum speciosum Steven in Trabzon Province, Türkiye

Colchicum speciosum Steven belongs to the Colchicaceae family and is native to the Eastern Black Sea Region of Anatolia. The genus Colchicum is used in the pharmaceutical industry due to the colchicine alkaloids contained in both its corms and seeds. This study was carried out to determine the distribution areas of Colchicum speciosum, an important medicinal aromatic plant, in Türkiye. To reach this purpose, field studies were carried out, collecting samples of the plant during suitable vegetation periods between 2015 and 2021 in Trabzon province. The present study was done using a full-field screening method. All field information about the taxon was recorded in the GIS database, and the distribution map of the taxon including Trabzon province was created. It was determined that Colchicum speciosum has a wide distribution in the study area, from 349 to 2560 m asl. In the study area, the specimens was determined at 192 different points and 12 different habitat types. These habitat types are mainly: pasture-meadow areas, both deciduous and conifer forest clearings, agricultural areas, hazelnut plantations, deciduous forests, coniferous forests dominated by Picea orientalis, roadsides, stony areas, scrubs, beech forests, seasonal stream edges, and swamp-reed areas. Additionally, it has been observed that the flowering time of the plant is between September and October.

Lignocellulosic waste biosorbents infused with deep eutectic solvents for biogas desulfurization

This paper introduces an innovative method for treating biogas streams, employing lignocellulosic biosorbents infused with environmentally friendly solvents known as deep eutectic solvents (DES). The primary focus of this study was the elimination of volatile organosulfur compounds (VSCs) from model biogas. Biosorbents, including energetic poplar wood, antipka tree, corncobs, and beech wood, were used, each with varying levels of lignin and hemicellulose content. The selection of the DES with the greatest potential for VSC removal was carried out using COnductor-like Screening MOdel for Realistic Solvents (COSMO-RS) modeling. The chosen DES consisted of quaternary ammonium salts and glycols, specifically, tetrapropylammonium bromide and 1,2-hexanediol (1:3). The physicochemical properties of the new DES, such as the viscosity, density, and melting point, were evaluated. The biosorbents were treated with the selected DES after shredding, purifying, and sieving. Comprehensive analysis techniques, including thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction, were employed on the modified biosorbents both before and after modification. The subsequent step involved the adsorption of VSCs from biogas. The results of this study demonstrated the superior performance of a novel sorbent based on corn cob modified by DES compared to commercially available alternatives. The sorption capacity ranged from 103.8 to 112.1 mg/g for various VSCs. The adsorption process using the new biosorbent can be described by the pseudo second order kinetic model, as well as the Yoon-Nelson and Adams-Bohart models. The high efficacy of the VSCs removal was attributed to the concurrent operation of the absorption and adsorption processes. The resulting sorbent was also characterized by its ability to regenerate repeatedly without significant loss of sorption capacity of the new sorbents.

Towards an objective assessment of tree vitality: a case study based on 3D laser scanning

Key messageAnalyzing fine branch length characteristics in beech trees using single-tree QSMs derived from laser scanning reveals insights into drought-induced changes in vitality, which include branch shedding and reduced shoot growth.Climate change causes increasing temperatures and precipitation anomalies, which result in deteriorations of tree health and declines in ecosystem services of forests. It is therefore crucial to monitor tree vitality to preserve forests and their functions. However, methods describing tree vitality in situ are lacking reproducibility or are too laborious. Thus, we tested a laser-scanning based approach, assuming that an objective measurement of a tree’s outer shape should reveal changes according to tree vitality. QSMs of similarly sized beech trees from stands with varying degrees of drought damage were used. Absolute and relative fine branch lengths, their ratio to lower order branches’ lengths and their progressions over relative height were targeted to identify fine branch dieback and reduced growth. The absolute fine branch length was significantly lower for less vital beech trees, especially within the upper crown, leading to a less top-heavy vertical distribution of fine branches and a reduced fine-to-base order branch length ratio. Hence, height-dependent characteristics of fine branch lengths differed between vitalities. We conclude that using fine branch length characteristics derived from QSMs can be helpful in vitality assessments of beech trees. Still, uncertainties with regard to the plotwise assessment and problems with QSM quality are present.

Influence of polyethylene glycol and various carboxylic acids on the physical and mechanical properties of beech wood (Fagus sylvatica) and Scots pine wood (Pinus sylvestris)

ABSTRACT The goal of this study was to investigate the influence on physical and mechanical properties of beech wood (Fagus sylvatica) and Scots pine wood (Pinus sylvestris) modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400 as an alcohol and various carboxylic acids (citric acid, malic acid and 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid). PEG 400, chosen for its large and flexible structure, was expected to minimize the negative effects on mechanical properties. However, contrary to expectations, tensile and impact bending strength decreased – similar to other modifications. Tensile strength decreased (beech: 36.0% to 46.3%), while the modulus of rupture did not show a strong decrease (beech: 2.4% to 15.2%). The modulus of elasticity (beech: 1.6% to 14.7%), compression strength (beech: 11.7% to 40.6%) and hardness (beech: 6.0% to 17.1%) increased. Impact bending strength was reduced (beech: 43.0% to 69.3%). Modifying agents, fixed inside the wood, demonstrated high anti-swelling efficiency during leaching cycles (beech: 27.1% to 45.9%). Equilibrium moisture content was reduced between 20.8% and 39.1% for beech at a relative humidity of 65%.

Changes in carbon stocks according to stand development stages in oriental beech forests in the Marmara Region of Türkiye.

This study was conducted to determine the changes in carbon stocks of oriental beech (Fagus orientalis) according to stand development stage in the Marmara Region of Türkiye. For this purpose, sample plots were taken from a total of 32 areas encompassing four stand development stages (young, middle age, mature and overmature stand). The diameter at breast height and height of all trees in the sample plots were measured, and only three dominant trees's ages per plot were determined. Aboveground carbon stock was calculated using equations developed for beech forests, while the coefficients in the Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use guide were used to determine belowground carbon stocks. A soil pit was dug in each plot and soil samples were taken at different depths (0-10, 10-30, 30-60, 60-100cm). In addition, litters were sampled from four different 25 × 25cm sections in each plot, and then the physical and chemical properties of the soil and litters were analysed. The variations in carbon stocks in above- and below-ground tree mass, litter and soil, and in ecosystem carbon stocks according to development stage were examined by analysis of variance and Duncan test, and the relationships between the carbon stocks were investigated by correlation analysis. Aboveground (AG) and belowground (BG) tree, soil and ecosystem carbon stocks showed significant differences between the four stand development stages (P < 0.05), but not the litter carbon stocks (P > 0.05). AG and BG tree and ecosystem carbon stocks increased with progressive stand development stages, while the soil carbon stock was the highest at the young stage. These findings will contribute to the preparation of forest management plans and the national greenhouse gas inventory.