Structural variables drive the distribution of the sensitive lichen Lobaria pulmonaria in Mediterranean old-growth forests |
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Institution: | 1. Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas;2. Department of Surgery, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas;3. Department of Plastic Surgery, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas |
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Abstract: | We tested the hypothesis that structural variables related to old-growth features affect the distribution of Lobaria pulmonaria in a Mediterranean National Park of Italy. A total of 36 plots, with old-growth characteristics and representing overall three forest types (beech- oak- and mixed- forests) were studied. The lichen was absent in about half of the sites, suggesting that the selection of old-growth forests based solely on structural features is not sufficient to predict the presence of this species, which therefore proves to be rather sensitive and selective. Its abundance was related to high tree circumference and basal area, and to availability of deadwood, confirming the relevant effect of substrate and stand continuity in the conservation of this species and emphasizing its role of indicator species of undisturbed forest ecosystems with long ecological continuity. |
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Keywords: | Basal area Deadwood Forest continuity Habitat quality Old-growth forests Tree circumference |
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