Showing papers by "Anders Dahlberg published in 2008"

Stump Removal to Control Root Rot in Forest Stands. A Literature Study

Abstract: Tree stumps are expected to be increasingly used for energy production in Fennoscandia, thus environmental consequences of stump removal from forest land must be assessed. Aim of this work was to compile available data on the efficacy of stump removal in eradication of root rot fungi (Heterobasidion, Armillaria, and Phellinus), and to review its potential impacts on establishment and productivity of next forest generation. Site disturbance and some technical and economical aspects are discussed, and needs for future research outlined in northern European context. The review demonstrates that stump removal from clear-felled forest areas in most cases results in, a) reduction of root rot in the next forest generation, b) improved seedling establishment, and c) increased tree growth and stand productivity. Observed disturbances caused to a site by stumping operations are normally acceptable. The available data strongly suggests that possibly many (if achievable, all) rot-containing stumps must be removed during harvesting of stumps. Provided equal availability, the priority should be given for stump removal from root rot-infested forest areas, instead of healthy ones. As most studies were done in North America and Britain, several questions must be yet answered under Fennoscandian conditions: a) if and to which extent the conventional stump removal for biofuel on clear-felled sites could reduce the occurrence of Heterobasidion and Armillaria in the next forest generation, b) what impact is it likely to have on survival of replanted tree seedlings, and c) what consequences will there be for growth and productivity of next forest generation.

Chapter 13 Wood-decay basidiomycetes in boreal forests: Distribution and community development

Abstract: Dead wood and wood-inhabiting fungi are of key importance for biodiversity in boreal forests, and also for global CO 2 dynamics. Of more than 10,000 non-lichenised fungal species in Fennoscandia, over 2,500 are wood inhabiting Anthropogenic influences such as forest harvesting and fire suppression have reduced the availability of dead wood in forests, resulting in many wood-decay fungi being considered threatened. Classic inventory approaches have been complemented by pure culture studies of mycelia and recently by molecular detection methods. Nutrient cycling and interspecific interactions play important parts in the development of fungal communities. Boreal fungal communities are, in general, less diverse and more similar on a global scale compared to communities from the temperate regions.