Evolutionary dynamics of birch (Betula aetnensis Rafin) coppices on the Mount Etna (Sicily)

Abstract

Evolutionary dynamics of birch (Betula aetnensis Rafin) coppices on the Mount Etna (Sicily). The aim of this paper is to evaluate the dynamics of Etna birch stands (Betula aetnensis Rafin) following the cessation of silvicultural activities in the Etna Regional Park (Sicily). We investigated forest structure, natural regeneration, vegetation and deadwood in different forest types. Our findings highlighted three different dynamics for birch populations: stable birch stands in the high mountain area which might represent an edapho-climax forest; progressive dynamic birch stands in the intermediate mountain area, showing a gradual depletion of birch and a concomitant replacement with monospecific stands (calabrian pine, beech, oaks) or mixed ones (with birch); pure birch stands (typical) that tend to be regressive - especially under stressful conditions - and to be replaced by xerophilous grasslands. Following the cessation of coppicing and with stand ageing, the stumps transformation into more homogeneous stand structures have been increasing. Within the context of protected areas the restoration of coppice selection system (with appropriate adaptations) could help to maintain the traditional forest landscape, acting as a silvicultural technique with low environmental and landscape impact.

Keywords

• Betula Aetnensis
• Mount Etna
• Vegetation Dynamics
• Coppice Selection System
• Forest Restoration