Abstract: The study of the phytosociology of plants in the territory of the Surif region, which includes Al-Dair Village, Khirbet Dair Musa, Ali Ghoneim's Khalet, Khirbet Abu Shouk, Jabla Village, Khirbet Jamreen, and Khirbet Mishrif, among others, was the subject of this article. As this region represents a distinctive plant diversity, and these plants are part of the flora of the Mediterranean Basin, we conducted this study to identify and describe the plants of that region, in light of the significance of studies on phytosociological and community plants in southern Palestine. Arid, semi-arid, dry, sub-humid, and humid ombrotypes and inframediterranean, thermomediterranean, and mesomediterranean thermotypes are related to the Surif area in Palestine. Seven plots (releves) in a representative area were used to sample the vegetation, which was then analyzed using the Braun-Blanquet method of phytosociological analysis. This revealed one community of forests and maquis vegetation, with 210 species that were documented, 15 of which (7.14%) were endemic to this region. (Pino halepensis-Cupressiom sempervirentis), a class of Quercetea calliprini or palaestini novo (Ighbareyeh et al., 2022) & Quercetea ilicis Br.-Bl. ex. A.& O. Bols 1950, served as a representation of the forest vegetation, and order of Quercetalia ilicis Br.-Bl. ex. Molinier 1934. & Quercetalia calliprini Zohary 1960, with alliance of Pino halepensis-Cupressiom sempervirentis (Ighbareyeh et al., 2022) & Querco - Pistacion lentisci all. nova (Ighbareyeh et al., 2022), which adapted to a variety of soil types, including limestone, brown ruins, and terra rossa.

Abstract: Native forests provide forage for grazing animals. We investigated whether native and exotic vegetation promotes potential animal load (PAL, ind ha-1 yr-1) for cattle (Bos taurus, ~700 kg) and sheep (Ovis aries, ~60 kg) in contrasting native forest types and canopy cover (closed, semi-open, open). The study was conducted in Chilean Patagonia (-44° to -49° SL). Vegetation cover (%) and growth habit data (trees, shrubs, forbs, graminoids, ferns, lianas, lichens, and bryophytes) were collected from 374 plots (up to 5 ha) representing the following types: coihue (Nothofagus dombeyi, CO), lenga (N. pumilio, LE), mixed Nothofagus forests (MI), ñire (N. antarctica, ÑI), evergreen forests (SV), and open-lands (OL). We combine this data with bibliographic research and laboratory analyses (e.g. crude protein, %) to develop PAL values for the year's four seasons. Data were evaluated using descriptive statistical analyses, ANOVAs, and Multiple Correspondence Analysis. The analyses indicated that closed forests exhibited a greater percentage of native species (~56.6%) compared to opened forests (~33.3%), while OL had the highest coverage of exotic species (~68.6%). LE was forest type with major native species coverage (~58.0%), whereas ÑI forests had the highest exotic cover (~53.0%). The closed forests had fewer exotic species than semi-open and open forests, which supported a higher cover of native and exotic plants (p <0.01). Forbs were the dominant growth habit in closed forests, while graminoids were more common in OL (~45.8%). The multivariate analysis showed that LE and CO forest types and closed canopy cover were associated with lower PAL values, explaining 91.2% of the variance. Our analysis also showed that exotic species predominated environment types with high PAL, particularly during spring and summer when cover increased. This indicates a trade-off between forage production in the forest and the presence of exotic plants.

Abstract: Urban green areas, while providing numerous benefits, can also produce negative impacts, often referred to as “ecosystem disservices.” While fallen fruits, leaves and branches may pose tripping hazards, falling trees present a more significant threat to the safety of citizens and buildings. A study was conducted to identify the factors that most influence tree falls, aiming to enhance monitoring and maintenance in high-risk areas and to develop preventive felling plans. The analysis was carried out in the city of Venice (Italy) using data from 2019 to 2022. Key variables included daily rainfall and cumulative rainfall over the four days preceding tree falls, minimum temperature, average wind speed and direction, maximum gust speed on the day of the event and two days prior, as well as detailed information on the affected trees from the municipal GreenSpaces application database (R3GIS). The distribution of fallen trees was assessed in relating to these parameters, and a spatial autocorrelation analysis was performed. The results revealed that tree falls were more frequent during the summer season, coinciding with more intense weather events, especially those characterised by gusts of strong wind. Street trees and trees in groups, particularly those in parks and densely populated urban areas, were most affected. Tree falls during a single event often occurred in clusters within a radius of approximately 1.5 km. Species analysis indicated that maintaining a diverse mix of tree species could reduce the number of fallen trees, as different species exhibit varying levels of resistance to wind pressure and adaptability to urban conditions. Addressing these findings can help create more sustainable and liveable urban environments, maximising the benefits of green spaces while mitigating their ecosystem disservices.

Abstract: This paper presents a structured methodology for identifying and addressing key communication challenges in the forestry sector, using the Czech Republic as a case study. The approach integrates the CIMO model, problem tree analysis, SWOT evaluation, and the confrontation matrix to identify critical factors influencing communication challenges and prioritize strategic responses. Findings from a representative public survey (n = 3,600), participatory workshops, and expert consultations indicate that the absence of a unified, long-term communication strategy is the central issue. This fragmentation contributes to public misunderstanding, erodes trust, and limits policy support. In response, the study proposes evidence-based tools to improve the sector's visibility, coherence, and engagement with the public. The findings offer practical guidance for establishing a coordinated, stakeholder-oriented communication strategy. With direct payments for ecosystem services currently being debated in CZ, this study is particularly timely, as effective communication is key to securing public and political support. While grounded in the Czech context, the lessons learned, and methods employed have broader relevance and may inform similar efforts in forestry and other sectors or regions seeking to strengthen legitimacy and stakeholder alignment through strategic communication.

Abstract: The emergence and germination of two oak species, Quercus faginea and Quercus coccifera, were evaluated in a nursery to assess their response to acorn dimensions and different substrates. Three substrates were tested: a commercial substrate, coconut fiber with ver-miculite, and olive pomace compost with two different proportions of sand. Olive pomace compost, a byproduct of olive oil production, has recently gained attention as a promising alternative substrate for nurseries, offering a sustainable solution for managing this mate-rial while promoting plant growth. Seed weight and physical characteristics were evalu-ated for both species, as well as their relationships to radicle and shoot emergence and germination. The results demonstrated a significantly higher and earlier emergence (root and shoot) and germination in the commercial substrate. Quercus faginea germination was faster than that of Quercus coccifera, seed dimension did not have a significant effect on germination time, and seedling growth was promoted in coconut fiber and vermiculite substrate.

Abstract: Climate models predicted changes in the woody plants’ growth, vitality, and species distribution. Those changes are expected mainly within the boundaries of the species ranges. We studied the influence of changing hydrothermal and burning rate regimes on relict pine stands at the southern edge of the Pinus sylvestris range in Siberia. We found that the increase in air temperature, combined with the decrease in soil and air drought, stimulated the growth of pine trees. Since the “warming restart” in the c. 2000 y, the growth index (GI) of pines has exceeded its historical value by 1.4 times. The GI strongly correlated with the GPP and NPP of pine stands (r = 0.82). Despite the increased fire rate, the GPP and NPP of both pine stands and surrounding bush-steppes are increasing, i.e., the pine habitat is “greening” since warming restart. These results support the prediction (by climatic scenarios SSP4.5, SSP7.0, and SSP8.5) of improvement in trees’ habitat in the Siberian South. The density of seedlings on burns (c. 10,000 per ha) is potentially sufficient for pine recovery. However, warming also leads to a reduction in the fire return interval (up to 3–5 y). Currently, repeated surface fires have eliminated the majority of the undergrowth and afforestation. In a changing climate, the preservation of relict pine forests depends on a combination of moisture supply, burning rate, and fire suppression.

Abstract: Accurately estimating aboveground biomass (AGB) remains a challenge due to the limitations of various measurement methods. While destructive sampling provides precise results, it is costly, labor-intensive, and environmentally unsustainable. Advances in remote sensing technologies offer efficient alternatives for AGB estimation. Our study highlights that airborne laser scanning (ALS) is more effective in assessing forest structure than detailed biomass composition. Orthophoto analysis, while applicable for rapid assessments, tends to overestimate AGB and carbon stock, particularly in dense forests. Differences in tree height measurements between ALS, orthophoto extraction, and field methods emphasize the varying precision of remote sensing techniques. Integrating ALS and orthophotos may enhance accuracy by using orthophotos for tree crown identification and ALS for height measurements. This combined approach could reduce errors in biomass estimation, especially in dense forests where traditional methods are challenging. Our findings suggest that ALS is more suitable for large-scale biomass assessments, while orthophoto data may be more effective in open forests. Field calibration remains essential to improve accuracy, particularly for orthophotos, which are influenced by environmental factors such as light, shadow, and seasonal changes.

Abstract: This research examines the governance of carbon rights in comparison with 6 other coun-tries, focusing on Vietnam's carbon markets and REDD+ implementation. Through con-stitutional theory and comparative analysis, the study explores carbon rights and their governance frameworks. It utilizes surveys, in-depth interviews, and literature reviews to scrutinize governance mechanisms. A comparative analysis of Vietnam with countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, Indonesia, and the Philippines was performed. It highlights differences in legal, institutional, and policy frameworks. Australia and New Zealand, early adopters of carbon rights policies pro-moting private ownership, have developed strong markets. In contrast, Indonesia and other Global South nations are still evolving their frameworks, with a focus on state-controlled systems that restrict participation and equity. The findings indicate substantial gaps in Vietnam's carbon rights governance compared to other countries, especially in terms of legal clarity, stakeholder engagement, and policy coherence. Accordingly, this study recommends that Vietnam should adopt a robust legal framework for carbon rights, improve transparency in carbon markets, and integrate REDD+ strategies within broader environmental governance objectives. Vietnam’s carbon rights ought to be designated as national assets to ensure equitable distribution among various forest ownership groups. Benefit-sharing mechanisms could be fashioned following the successful implementation of the Payment for Forest Environmental Services (PFES) policy. The research concludes that, with these enhancements, Vietnam could emerge as a key player in the global carbon market and effectively leverage REDD+ for sustainable development and climate objectives.

Abstract: Cortinarius sinensis is deeply loved by people in northwest China for its taste and nutrition, but its wild resources decline due to over - picking, climate change, and trade demands. First, this study used the MaxEnt model to predict its suitable habitats. Results show that currently, the optimal and highly suitable habitats are around the Helan and Qilian Mountains. Future climate will keep the distribution trend but reduce the area. Then the nutritional components of the fruitbodies collected from the Qilian Mountains and the Helan Mountains, the two main producing areas of C. sinensis, were measured. It was found that C. sinensis from the Helan Mountains has higher protein, fat, and crude - fiber contents but lower free - amino - acid content than those from the Qilian Mountains, leading to flavor differences. The research results can not only provide a theoretical basis for the establishment of protected areas and in - situ conservation of C. sinensis, but also suggest that when formulating conservation strategies, we should combine regional dietary preferences on the basis of current conservation biology to develop comprehensive conservation strategies.

Abstract: Pine wilt disease, caused by the nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, poses a significant threat to pine forests worldwide. Understanding the dynamics of its spread is crucial for effective disease management. In this study, we investigated the involvement of asymptomatic carrier trees in the expansion of pine wilt disease through a series of experiments. Cage-releasing experiments revealed that sexually immature Japanese pine sawyer, Monochamus alternatus feeding on healthy pine branches drop only minimal number of nematodes (primary infection). However, sexually mature beetles, still harboring numerous nematodes, fly to weakened trees for breeding and extend their feeding activities to healthy pines around weakened trees, infecting them with nematodes and thus spreading the disease further. Inoculation experiments on field-planted black pine seedlings demonstrated that even a small number of nematodes can lead to a high occurrence of asymptomatic carrier trees. Our findings suggest that nematode infections transmitted by sexually mature Monochamus beetles significantly contribute to the expansion of pine wilt damage and play a crucial role in the persistence of asymptomatic carrier trees. This conclusion is based on cage release experiments demonstrating nematode transmission by mature beetles and inoculation experiments highlighting the conditions leading to asymptomatic carrier trees.

Abstract: Precise forest inventory is the key to sustainable forest management. LiDAR technology is applied to tree attribute extraction widely. Therefore, this study compared DBH and tree height derived from Handheld Mobile Laser Scanning (HMLS), Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) and Integrated ALS and HMLS, and determined the applicability of integrating HMLS and ALS scanning methods to estimate individual tree attributes Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) and tree height in pine forests of South Korea. There were strong correlations for DBH at individual tree level (r > 0.95; p < 0.001). HMLS and Integrated ALS˗HMLS achieved high accuracy for DBH estimations, showing Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of 1.46 cm (rRMSE 3.7%) and 1.38 cm (rRMSE 3.5%), respectively. In contrast, tree height obtained from HMLS was lower than expected, showing an RMSE of 2.85 m (12.74%) along with a bias of −2.34 m. ALS data enhanced the precision of tree height estimations, achieving a root mean square error (RMSE) of 1.81 m and a bias of -1.24 m. However, integrating ALS and HMLS data resulted in the most precise of the tree height estimations with RMSEs reaching 1.43 m and bias of ˗0.3 m. Integrated ALS and HMLS and its advantages is a beneficial solution for accurate forest inventory which in turn supports forest management and planning.

Abstract: Forests, both natural and managed, provide a critical habitat to a significant part of a global diversity. Among many different groups of forest biota, trees occupy a special position. They act as foundation species that create conditions upon which the existence of virtually all other forest organisms depends, either directly or indirectly. To permanently play this role, trees must be demographically stable, i.e., their populations should be distinguished by the balanced, size-dependent proportions of individuals representing different developmental stages (from seedlings and saplings to mature and old trees). In this study, we examine the extent to which this condition is met in Białowieża Forest in northeastern Poland, an important biodiversity hotspot in Central Europe. Comparison of species-specific, equilibrium vs. actual size distributions revealed that almost half of all trees growing in Białowieża Forest represented "inappropriate", i.e. occurring in excess compared to the balanced model, species and/or diameter ranges. The amount of deficits was also large (around 30% of the current tree number), concerning primarily the smallest trees. To restore demographic balance of key tree species and thus, to enhance conservation of local biodiversity, we recommend targeted, active management strategies, including gradual removal of trees from surplus diameter ranges and assisted regeneration of species with the greatest deficiencies in small diameter classes.

Abstract:

Forests can simultaneously provide a variety of ecosystem functions and services (ecosystem multifunctionality, EMF). Different stand types, influenced by biotic and abiotic factors, play a key role in determining EMF. To clarify the impact of stand type, as well as biotic and abiotic factors, on EMF, this study quantified EMF across three stand types: Betula platyphylla pure forest (BP), B. platyphylla-Larix principis-rupprechtii mixed forest (BL), and L. principis-rupprechtii pure forest (LP). The multiple-threshold approach was employed to quantify EMF, while structural equation modeling was used to analyze the primary factors influencing EMF. The results indicated that: (1) BL had higher stand productivity than both BP and LP; (2) BL exhibited significantly higher functional diversity and soil fertility maintenance compared to LP, with no significant difference between BP and BL; (3) BP demonstrated a significantly stronger nutrient cycling function than LP, with no significant difference between LP and BL; (4) the ranking of EMF at all threshold levels was BL>BP>LP; (5) soil was an effective driver of EMF across all threshold levels; and (6) both the niche complementarity effect and the mass ratio effect jointly drove EMF at the low threshold (<50%), with the influence of both effects diminishing as the threshold increased. This study enhances understanding of the key drivers of EMF in forest ecosystems and provides valuable insights for informing multifunctional forest management practices.

Abstract: Phenology is one of the most obvious biological characteristics for plants affected by external influences. Phenology variations across temperature reflect energy allocation and reproductive strategies, and measures for plants to adapt to seasonal and environmental changes. Previous studies have mainly focused on national and regional vegetation phenology, but endemic vegetation phenology and dynamic variation in Xinjiang remains unclear. Therefore, our study characterized the Betula microphylla phenology in the Xinjiang area of China, over the period of 2009-2019 based on ≥10 ℃ accumulated temperature data and annual precipitation data using phenological data from field observations, explored B.microphylla ecological strategies and drivers. In this study, a total of 18 phenologies of B. microphylla population naturally distributed in the southern margin of the Junggar Basin were observed, divided the climatic year, the relevant climate data and phenological Julian day were used to analyze. Explored the adaptation strategies of B. microphylla to seasonal changes. We found that (1) The phenology of B. microphylla was generally earlier in warmer years and later in colder years, showing a trade-off relationship. (2) The monthly average temperature and acquired accumulated temperature had strong limitation to inflorescence germination in spring, and the monthly average temperature and low temperature accumulation values showed a synergistic relationship when physiological dormancy was broken. The inflorescence has germination strategy of “high low-temperature needs”. (3) In summer, the shallow root system of B. microphylla can replenish the water lost by transpiration. The male inflorescence shows the strategy of quantity victory. (4) From the perspective of autumn, the male inflorescence abscised, and only spread in the top of branches, so as to provide living space for female inflorescences, it is regarded as a "spatial dislocation" strategy. The male inflorescences use a "long dormancy" strategy to cope with the effects of high autumn temperatures. (5) As winter approaches in Xinjiang, all exposed male inflorescence were covered by bud scales.

Abstract: To examine the role of asymptomatic infected trees in the spread of pine wilt disease (PWD), we established two study sites in a coastal black pine forest: one in a heavily damaged site and the other in a slightly damaged site. Half of the trees in each site were treated with a nematicide injection to suppress nematode activity. Tree health, assessed by resin exudation and external symptoms, was monitored for four years. In the slightly damaged site, asymptomatic infected trees emerged within 20 m of infected trees, and even with nematicide treatment, trees within 2 m of infected trees became asymptomatic infected. However, nematicide treatment allowed temporarily asymptomatic infected trees to survive or recover. These findings suggest that combining nematicide injection with the felling of neighboring infected trees can effectively suppress PWD.

Abstract:

Dalbergia latifolia (Indian Rosewood) is a high-value timber species often limited by nutrient deficiencies. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, beneficial microorganisms, enhance plant growth by improving nutrient uptake and physiological processes. This study examined the effects of AM fungal inoculation on D. latifolia growth over 12 months, focusing on morphological, physiological, and symbiotic responses. The results demonstrated significant growth enhancement with AM fungi. Glomus mosseae achieved the tallest plant height (112 cm) at 12 months, followed by G. fasciculatum and G. leptotichum. Leaf length and width were also improved, with G. leptotichum (6.733 cm) and G. fasciculatum (6.433 cm) showing the longest leaves, and G. fasciculatum producing the widest leaves (5.1 mm). Shoot elongation was highest at 3 months in G. fasciculatum (16.33 cm) and at 12 months in G. mosseae (76 cm). Root growth was superior in G. fasciculatum and G. leptotichum, enhancing nutrient and water absorption. Chlorophyll content peaked at 9 months in G. mosseae (60.33) and remained high at 12 months (57). AM fungal colonization reached 35%, with G. fasciculatum showing the highest rate. These findings highlight the potential of AM fungi to enhance D. latifolia growth and support sustainable forestry.

Abstract: The tree species of Toona sinensis has been cultivated in China for over 2,000 years with multiple purposes. In 2022, leaf spots were detected on the leaves of T. sinensis in a germplasm resource nursery in Zhejiang Province, China. Symptomatic leaves were collected and fungal isolation was conducted. Four fungal isolates resembling Alternaria were isolated from the diseased leaves. These isolates were identified as Alternaria alternata, combining the morphological characteristics and multigene phylogenetic analysis. To fulfill Koch’s postulates, pathogenicity of the selected isolate YKHH was tested on 2-year-old container seedlings of T. sinensis. Disease symptoms basi-cally consistent with those observed in the field developed 12 days after inoculation (DAI) when either conidia or mycelia were used as the inoculum. Nevertheless, no visible symptoms devel-oped on the leaves of the control groups. The fungi were reisolated from the diseased leaves, and both the morphological characteristics as well as the three gene sequences (GAPDH, RPB2, and TEF1-α) of the reisolated fungi were consistent with those of the original YKHH isolate. Suscepti-bility trial results showed that family 55 of T. sinensis (F55) had the highest susceptibility to A. al-ternata, while family 28 of T. sinensis (F28), family 52 of T. sinensis (F52), and Toona ciliata var. pu-bescens (TCP) exhibited equal susceptibility to A. alternata. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of leaf spot disease caused by A. alternata on T. sinensis in China.

Abstract:

In Vietnam, the models for estimating above ground biomass (AGB) for converting to carbon stocks prediction mostly based on diameter at breast height (DBH), tree height (H), wood density (WD) meanwhile the remote sensing application has considered as suitable method since improving accuracy and reducing cost. With this context, this study was conducted with aim to develop correlation equations among total above ground carbon (TAGC) and indices of Sentinel 2 images to directly predict carbon stock for assessing carbon emission and removal. In this study, remote sensing indices great influencing TAGC were determined by principal component analysis (PCA) and forest inventory factors from 115 sample plot was used to calculate the TAGC. Regression models were established by Ordinary Least Squares and Maximum Likelihood methods and validated by Monte Carlo cross-validation method. The study found out that NDVI, SAVI, NIR and three variable combination (NAVI, ARVI), (SAVI, SIPI), (NIR, EVI) have strongly influenced on TAGC. Total 36 linear and non-linear with weight models basing on above selected variables were established, in which quadratic models used NIR and variable combination (NIR, EVI) with AIC of 756.924, 752.493, R2 value of 0.86, 0.87 and MPSE of 22,04%, 21,63% respectively, were found as optimal models. Therefore, the study these models have recommended for predicting carbon stocks for Evergreen Broadleaf Forests in South Central Coastal Ecoregion, Vietnam.

Abstract:

This study assessed the health risks of date palms in Taiwan with aerial root growth using visual tree assessment and non-destructive testing. Key external defects included leaning and insect damage, while acoustic tomography confirmed internal structural variability but required accuracy improvements. Drilling resistance tests showed that healthy trees had the highest resistance near the bark, decreasing toward the center, while decayed trees exhibited significant amplitude reductions. The phenomenon of aerial root growth on the outer side of the trunk is presumed to be a growth response of the tree to adapt to environmental changes, while the distinct dark wood band between the decayed and sound wood in the cross-section is likely a result of wood variation. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive tree health assessments and provide a scientific basis for improved urban tree management and conservation.

Abstract: Understanding how woody plants cope with severe water shortages is critical, espe-cially for regions where droughts are becoming more frequent and intense. We studied the effects of drought intensity, focusing on post-drought resprouting, autumn leaf se-nescence and the subsequent spring bud burst. Furthermore, we aimed to study popu-lation differentiation in the drought and post-drought responses. We performed a summer dry-out experiment in a common garden of potted Prunus spinosa L. (Rosaceae) saplings. We looked at the responses in different visual stress symptom categories and at provenance differentiation between a local (Western Europe), a more southern and a more northern provenance. The chance on post-drought resprouting was larger for the more severely affected plants, and the timing of resprouting was earlier than for the less severely affected ones. The plants that displayed wilting of the leaves during the drought had a leaf senescence 2.7 days earlier than the controls, whereas plants with 25 to 75% and more than 75% of desiccated leaves were 7 and 15 days later, respectively. During the drought, the local provenance was the first to de-velop visual symptoms. Still, for the plants with no to mild symptoms due to the drought, this provenance displayed a larger chance for post-drought resprouting. Among the control plants, the northern provenance was earlier, and the southern was later in leaf senescence compared to the local provenance. This differentiation disap-peared for the plants with more than 25% of desiccated leaves due to the drought. Whereas leaf senescence could be earlier or later depending on the developed drought symptoms, the timing of bud burst was only delayed. Results indicate that resprouting and timing of leaf senescence are responsive to the severity of the experienced drought in a provenance dependent way.