Physiological traits on Osmorhiza depauperata, a biodiversity component in the Nothofagus forests of Southern Patagonia.

LENCINAS MV; G MARTÍNEZ PASTUR; M ARENA; C BUSSO

Frontiers in Biodiversity Studies

IK International Publishing House

Lugar: Bangalore; Año: 2012; p. 164 - 178

Most silvicultural prescriptions to stimulate tree natural regeneration mainly open the canopy to modify light availability and soil moisture at the understory level [1]. Both are major factors [2] affecting growth and survival for tree seedlings and understory species. The survival of understory species after wood harvesting depends on the acclimation to the new microclimatic conditions. Understory species frequently play important roles in driving forest dynamics, because they can occupy free openings in a short time after cuts [3]. This can in turn reduce the availability of resources for tree seedlings through competition for light, water and nutrients. Also, they might have allelopathic influences, and be alternative hosts for pathogens. Understory plants can facilitate tree regeneration because they may increase nutrient and water status of early successional communities, and protect tree seedlings from herbivory [4]. If new silvicultural approaches intend to manage the whole primary forests more effectively, it is important to understand the functional responses of understory species to different environmental conditions. Therefore, a balance is needed between timber yield and functional integrity of the forest ecosystem, especially including the understory species [5]. Integration of effective forest management strategies and a greater understanding of understory plant ecophysiology are of relevance for biodiversity conservation.