Dynamics of Salix caprea L. populations during forest regeneration after strong herbivore pressure

TLDR: The process of extinction of the Salix population - observed over 19 yr on permanent plots with marked trees - proceeded very quickly, especially in the first decade of observation, and led to the almost complete disappearance of S. caprea from the forest communities of Bialowie2a National Park.

Abstract: Broadleaved forest communities degenerated through strong pressure from large herbivores. Relief of this pressure led to regeneration, in particular of Salix caprea and other light-seeded pioneer trees: Populus tremula, Betula pendula and B. pubescens. This regeneration proceeded fol- lowing conservation protection of degenerate stands in a na- ture reserve and later in Bialowie2a National Park. The emer- gence and development of the Salix caprea population pro- ceeded following the expansion of Picea abies, which coin- cided with the period of enhanced animal pressure on the broadleaved forest. Salix caprea filled all the gaps in the tree stand after the destruction of trees and undergrowth by herbiv- ores (in the years 1892- 1915). The species also appeared abundantly in old, at the time unforested, clearings and felled areas. Here, S. caprea developed large populations with certain trees in good condition, with a growth form typical of forest trees and attaining considerable heights. The majority of trees were 50 - 60 yr old at the time of death, although some individuals reached 74 yr of age. The process of extinction of the Salix population - observed over 19 yr on permanent plots with marked trees - proceeded very quickly, especially in the first decade of observation. It led to the almost complete disappearance of S. caprea from the forest communities of Bialowie2a National Park. The death of individual trees is