This research presented work on the actualisation of the existing landscape maps in the protected regions of Italy in northern, central and southern areas. The research aimed at evaluation of how land cover types change across Italy and what factors induce their changes: geology, climate change, natural hazards, anthropogenic activities (wood logging), and changes in forest dynamics (reforestation and deforestation). The methodology includes both the GIS-based analysis of the regional setting (climate and hydrology, topographic-geologic structure of the terrain) and fieldwork activities during the in-situ campaign (summer periods 2024 and 2025). Processing fieldwork data, aerial GEE images and maps, and integrating them into cartographic project through QGIS mapping enabled to extract valuable environmental information regarding land cover types in 3 different regions of Italy for analysis of landscape variability.
The paper presents the results of spatiotemporal patterns of large wildfires in Serbia from 2012 to 2024, utilizing GIS and VIIRS data from the FIRMS platform. Thirty-two large fires (FRP > 100 MW) were identified, most often occurring during July-October due to high temperatures and drought, while in April, fires are mostly caused by agricultural burning. Fires are most prevalent in Vojvodina and Kosovo and Metohija, while they are almost non-existent in western and most of Eastern Serbia. The riskiest areas are characterized by low to medium altitudes, gentle slopes, southern exposures, and moderate annual precipitation, with proximity to agricultural areas, roads, and settlements. The analysis shows that human activities have a decisive influence on the occurrence of fires, while natural factors shape their intensity and spread. The integration of GIS and satellite data provides valuable insight for risk assessment and improvement of fire protection strategies in Serbia.
This study investigates the applicability of the live crown ratio (LCR) and the slenderness coefficient (SC) as indicators of tree and stand stability of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.). The research was conducted within the Forest Management Unit (FMU) "Lomnička Reka", managed by the Public Enterprise "Srbijašume". Data were obtained from the stand inventory of the analyzed FMU, conducted on a network of permanent sample plots. The analysis focused on five structurally uneven-aged stands, encompassing 103 beech trees belonging to the middle-aged silvicultural group across eight sample plots. For each measured tree, both the live crown ratio and the slenderness coefficient were determined. Logistic regression and Conditional Inference Tree (CIT) analyses were used to identify critical LCR thresholds distinguishing slender from non-slender trees, with bootstrap procedures employed to assess the stability of the results. The findings revealed a significant negative relationship between LCR and SC (p < 0.001), with a critical LCR threshold of approximately 0.36-0.40 identified as necessary to maintain tree stability. Both statistical approaches yielded consistent results, supporting the robustness of LCR as a reliable predictor of slenderness. The obtained results emphasize the importance of analyzing these parameters during the process of planning silvicultural measures, particularly thinning, aiming to enhance tree stability, and improve the overall resilience of beech stands.
The results of selection of plus trees of sessile oak (Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.) as a base for establishing a seed orchard are presented in this paper. The research included 86 trees of phenotypically highest quality, selected based on morphological and physiological criteria, in order to preserve and improve the genetic diversity of the species. Morphological characteristics of leaves and acorns were analysed, including dimensions, mass and the ratio of certain parameters. The results of one-way analysis of variance showed that there are statistically significant differences among the trees for all observed characteristics (p < 0.01), which indicates a high level of genetic and morphological variability. The obtained results confirm that selected plus trees represent a suitable source of reproductive material for establishment of seed orchard of sessile oak. This way a basis for long-term conservation of genetic potential and adaptive capacity of the species is created.
Fungus Fistulina hepatica represents one of the especially important fungi in forestry. Due to better knowledge of Fistulina hepatica bioecology as well as the possibility of usage, effect of temperature and nutrient media on pure cultures was investigated. Temperature of 25 °C was optimal for mycelium growth, while the biggest growth of cultures was recorded on MEA nutrient medium. Somewhat slower growth was recorded on SMA and PDA nutrient medium while the slowest growth was on CMA nutrient medium. On all nutrient media mycelium was white, while there were differences in shape of cultures. Obtained results indicate better possibility of stimulating and growing certain strains of Fistulina hepatica. Medicinal properties and usage of obtained results were discussed.
English has become the primary medium for global communication, scientific discourse, and professional exchange. Within forestry, its significance is evident in education, research, international collaboration, and access to information. This paper examines the role of English as the lingua franca in forestry, highlighting its influence on academic publishing, knowledge dissemination, and international networking among forestry professionals. Through case studies from forestry education, international projects, and research distribution, the study demonstrates the necessity of English proficiency for both students and professionals in the field. The findings suggest that English serves not only as a means of communication but also as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable forest management globally.
This paper presents the results of an analysis of the effect of fertilization in the second year after planting on the morphological characteristics of Paulownia leaves. The results are continuation of the research and possibility of introduction and adaptation of paulownia to different habitats in Serbia. Obtaining of the results regarding quality of the plant leaves in the second year in relation to different fertilization treatments is significant for the technology of cultivation of this species on determined soil types. The research is carried out on two sites. Experimental fields on sites in Obrenovac and Pambukovica have been established with species Paulownia elongata S. Y. Hu. and Paulownia fortunei Seem. Hemsl.. Collecting of leaf material for the analysis in laboratory conditions was carried out within the experimental fields. Measuring of the following morphometric characteristics of leaves were carried out: leaf area, leaf circumference, leaf blade length, central veine length, leaf width on the widest part of leaf blade, leaf width at 1 cm from the leaf base, petiole length, distance between 3rd and 4th nerve, number of nerves on the left side of the central veine, and number of nerves on the right side of the central veine. The obtained results of morphometric measurings of leaves are statistically processed in the program Statgraphics. Morphometric analysis of leaves shows structural-functional connections, i.e. more detailed indicators of the adaptability of the species. Based on these measuring results it was determined that fertilization in the second year of plant development after planting has a positive effect on the size of leaves of analysed species of paulownia.
The common beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) can be used in forest ecosystem monitoring as a model for assessing environmental changes. Its long lifespan and wide distribution make it a suitable bioindicator of atmospheric deposition, soil acidification, and stress related to climate changes. Numerous studies have shown that foliar analysis of beech reflects both regional trends in acidic depositions and heavy metal input, as well as local pollution gradients. Crown defoliation and vitality parameters further complement this chemical signal by integrating complex stress factors such as drought and temperature-related ecosystems. In addition, recent years have seen growing interest in rare albino individuals of woody species, including albino beech. Due to the absence of chlorophyll and altered relationships between the phloem and xylem, albino shoots may act as "traps for mineral nutrients." Studies on albino sequoias have confirmed elevated concentrations of Cd, Cr, and Ni in albino leaves compared to pigmented ones, indicating potentially high sensitivity to environmental pollution and possible applications in phytoremediation. A similar pattern of heavy metal accumulation can also be observed in albino beech, which can accumulate higher concentrations of heavy metals such as Ni and Cd compared to pigmented individuals. This paper summarizes the current knowledge on the use of beech as a bioindicator of environmental conditions and compares it with available data for albino woody species, with special emphasis on albino beech. It is concluded that the greatest potential lies in combining standardized regional monitoring of common beech with targeted research of albino individuals as extreme models for studying element cycling and heavy metal accumulation.
Previous research has shown that, besides an appropriate species selection, the characteristics of planting material play a key role in the success of reforestation efforts. The application of fertilisation products in modern nursery production represents an important factor in producing high-quality seedlings. This study aimed to examine the effect of a controlled-release fertiliser, marketed under the commercial name Osmocote® Exact Standard 5-6 M, on the height growth and survival of two-year-old wild cherry (Prunus avium L.) transplants (1+1). Shoot height was measured at the beginning of the growing season, during the season, and at its end. Based on these measurements, the height increment and the survival rate of two-year-old transplanted seedlings were calculated. The results indicate a positive influence of the fertiliser on all examined parameters. The mean height at the end of the growing season was 68.8 cm in unfertilised seedlings compared with 80.4 cm in fertilised ones. The relative height increment in the second year amounted to 69.6% in unfertilised seedlings and 101.6% in fertilised seedlings. Thus, the application of controlled-release fertiliser can enhance height growth and improve the survival of wild cherry seedlings.
The research was conducted in Hungarian oak (Quercus frainetto Ten.) coppice stands located on Mt. Cer in western Serbia. Data collection and processing on the experimental fields were carried out using standard dendrometric methods. The aim was to identify the most appropriate silvicultural treatments for converting these stands into a high forest structure, based on an analysis of their initial condition. The paper also presents the state of the stands before and after the applied treatments, allowing for a comparative evaluation. The investigated stands exhibited higher values of volume and volume increment compared to the average for Hungarian oak coppice forests in Serbia. Based on the analysis of site conditions, total volume, number of trees per unit area, and the dominant tree height, it was concluded that the stands could be converted into high forest through indirect conversion. The statistical significance of differences in mean tree volume and mean tree height between the experimental fields (EF) was tested using an independent t-test. The obtained values of stand parameters, together with the statistically confirmed differences in mean tree volume and height, indicate that the stand on EF I has higher productivity compared to the stand on EF II, which consequently required the application of different silvicultural treatments. In the stand on EF I, selective thinning was conducted due to the sufficient number of high-quality trees per unit area and the larger diameters and heights of dominant trees. Conversely, the condition of the stand on EF II suggested that postponing its conversion to a high forest form would be unjustified; therefore, the process of indirect conversion was initiated immediately through the application of a preparatory-regeneration felling. The conducted research highlights the importance of a detailed analysis of forest stand parameters as a basis for making appropriate decisions when selecting suitable silvicultural treatments for converting Hungarian oak coppice stands into a high forest.
Fifty-six Populus spp. trees were examined in Belgrade, Serbia, with a focus on assessing vitality and decorativeness using the Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) method and measuring wood sound velocity. The study aimed to explore the connection between visual indicators of tree condition and internal structural properties based on sonic wave velocities. Vitality and decorativeness ratings ranged from 2 to 5 (out of 5), with mean values of 2.80 and 2.93, respectively; wood sound averaged 788,39 m/s. Statistically significant correlations (r = 0.52 for vitality, r = 0.53 for decorativeness) confirmed the possibility of integrating VTA and sonic measurements. Mathematical models were developed that successfully predict tree vitality and decorativeness based on sound velocity. It can be concluded that this combined approach improves tree health assessment accuracy, supports timely interventions, and contributes to sustainable urban greenery management.
This paper presents the results of research on wild-growing medicinal plants in the beech forests of the protected area of Kosmaj. Beech forests in this region are widely distributed and occur either as pure stands (Helleboro odori-Fagetum moesiacae Soo & Borhidi 1960) or as mixed stands with sessile oak (Querco petraeae-Fagetum moesiacae Glišić 1971). The floristic composition of these forests was analyzed using 22 phytosociological relevés. Out of a total of 100 recorded plant taxa, 60 medicinal species belonging to 50 genera and 36 families were identified. The taxonomic analysis showed that the most represented medicinal plants belong to the families Rosaceae (15%) and Lamiaceae (13%), followed by Fagaceae (7%) and Liliaceae (5%). Species of the Central European distribution type were the most common (36%), while the analysis of life forms indicated a predominance of phanerophytes (48.4%) and hemicryptophytes (23.3%), with a notable share of geophytes (18%).
This paper aims to evaluate the vegetation in the area proposed for the construction of the Multifunctional Hall of the Institute for Sport and Sports Medicine of the Republic of Serbia. The assessment of the existing vegetation was based on the analysis of qualitative evaluation parameters - vitality and decorativeness - of selected trees. Vitality and decorativeness were assessed on a five-point scale (1-5) using the Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) method. A total of 509 trees were recorded in the surveyed area, including 11 dead individuals. More than 30 species were identified, comprising five coniferous and twenty-four deciduous species. Conifers predominated, with Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold as the most common, while Quercus sp., Acer platanoide L., and Betula pendula Roth were the most frequent deciduous species. The average vitality and decorativeness scores, assessed on a five-point scale, were 3.10 and 3.08, respectively. The Urban Project proposed that most new facilities be constructed on existing green spaces and meadows previously used as sports fields. Less than 5% of the analysed vegetation would need to be removed in areas designated for construction. During redevelopment, all felled trees should be replaced through appropriate greening measures. Timely visual assessment of trees and green areas is essential in the planning and development of such facilities to ensure the preservation of urban forests and the continuity of green infrastructure.
This scientific paper investigates the spatial distribution and concentration of nickel (Ni) in the organic layer and surface soil (0-10 cm) of forest ecosystems in the Republic of Serbia. The aim of the research is to determine the influence of regional affiliation (Eastern, Western, Northern, Southern, and Central Serbia) and altitude on nickel accumulation in these forest soil components. Samples of organic layer and soil were collected from representative locations across Serbia. Nickel content was determined after digestion of the samples with aqua regia, and concentrations were analysed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). It is expected that the results will show significant variations in nickel content depending on geographical location and altitude, which may be related to the geological substrate, specific pedogenetic processes, climatic conditions, and anthropogenic influences. The significance of the research lies in assessing the potential risk of nickel toxicity to flora, microorganisms, and other ecosystem components, as well as contributing to the understanding of metal biogeochemical cycles in forest soils. The obtained data will serve as a basis for future research and monitoring of soil quality in forest ecosystems in Serbia.
The paper presents the results of research dealing with the influence of climatic factors on the size of earlywood and latewood and the total diameter increment of incense-cedar (Calocedrus decurrens (Torr.) Florin). Samples taken from 30 trees at a height of 1.3 m were used in the analysis. The values were correlated with the mean monthly air temperature and precipitation sums (from April to September). In addition, the tree age expressed in years was included as an important factor. The analysed parameters explained 64.8% of the current diameter increment, 64.8% of the latewood, and 55.8% of the earlywood share.
Fungus Epicoccum nigrum is one of the most important potential biocontrol agents of plant pathogens. To optimise the application methods, the study investigated the influence of temperature and nutrient media on Epicoccum nigrum mycelium growth. The optimal temperature for Epicoccum nigrum growth ranged from 17 to 25⁰C. At 9 ⁰C, Epicoccum nigrum showed a delayed beginning of the growth compared to the other temperatures. The lowest mycelial growth was recorded on Sabouraud maltose agar (SMA), while cultures on malt extract agar (MEA), cornmeal agar (CMA) and potato dextrose agar (PDA) showed the same growth. The colour of cultures varied depending on temperature and nutrient media. The application of Epicoccum nigrum in biotechnical purposes was discussed.
The Danube is a natural habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna, and its floodplain forests provide numerous ecosystem services that directly contribute to an improved quality of life for people. The dominant tree species in the river's floodplain areas are willow, poplar, and alder. These forests play a crucial role in water filtration, shoreline protection from erosion, and carbon storage. Continuous monitoring of groundwater is essential for preserving this resource. The goal is to monitor groundwater level fluctuations to influence the selection of silviculture and management measures based on the results of long-term research, and to implement planned activities in forest management. In the "Apatinski rit" management unit, it is recommended to establish a network of piezometers.
Different scenarios indicate that macro-climatically suitable areas for European beech will decrease dramatically in the coming decades. Due to climate change, European beech will face a change in phenology, mortality, and reduced tree growth, with a particular tendency to reduce forest productivity in the southern part of its distribution range. Provenance trials represent the research of the adaptation to specific environmental conditions of populations of the same species but with different origins and provide a unique insight into the plant's response to the changed environmental conditions in real-time. This research aims to determine and describe the growth and survival rate of European beech seedlings from 29 provenances in a trial established on Goč Mountain. The trial involved 29 European beech provenances selected from their natural distribution areas in Central and Southeastern Europe. The European beech provenance trial was established in the spring of 2021 on Mt. Goč in central Serbia. At the end of the vegetation period in 2021, the height and root collar diameter of seedlings were measured, and the survival rate was recorded. The seedling survival rate ranged from 40.7% to 84%. Statistically significant differences between the provenances were determined for the height and root collar diameter, and the correlation values of the measured traits. The Mt. Goč provenance trial remains a valuable resource for studying the performance of European beech provenances and can provide guidelines for their tolerance and adaptation.
The South Morava River Basin was considered one of the most erosion-prone and flash flood-affected areas in the Republic of Serbia. This paper aims to apply the Erosion Potential Method (EPM) within a GIS environment to determine the spatial and temporal changes in the soil erosion coefficient, sediment production and transport, and to identify the factors contributing most significantly to erosion risk in the Grdelica Gorge for two reference years: 1970 and 2025. The intensity of soil erosion was analysed using the Erosion Potential Method according to Gavrilović. The results indicate that most of the area (62.03%) fell into slope category IV (27-70%), with all erosion categories represented. Processes of very slight erosion were predominant, covering 71.31% of the surface area (306.94 km²). The total annual sediment production (W year) amounted to 110,233.97 m3 year-1, while the specific sediment production (W sp) was 256.1 m3 km-2 year-1. The mean annual sediment transport was 81,573.14 m³/year, and the specific annual sediment transport was 189.51 m³/km²/year. A decline in population and the abandonment of arable land at higher elevations and steeper slopes, along with the implementation of extensive technical, biological, and biotechnical erosion control measures, contributed to erosion mitigation and enhanced vegetation recovery. Compared to the erosion intensity in 1970, the extent of severe erosion had notably decreased by 2025, while the proportions of slight and moderate erosion significantly increased. The mean erosion coefficient (Z mean) had decreased from 0.50 to 0.23.
This study aims to provide an overview of fire occurrences in the Republic of Serbia over the past twelve years and to compare these findings with those from neighbouring countries. The analysis is based on data obtained from the online platform Global Forest Watch, sourced from Copernicus Sentinel-2 and processed by the European Space Agency (ESA). In comparison with the selected neighbouring countries, Serbia demonstrates moderate to slightly above-average values in terms of the annual number of fires, the total number of fires, and fire density per square kilometre. A significant proportion of the fires detected by satellite imagery are associated with agricultural areas. The period with the highest number of fire events is the fourth quarter of the year, which numerous sources attribute to the burning of agricultural residues following the harvest. Beyond providing numerical indicators of the fire situation in Serbia, this study also serves as a foundation for more detailed analyses that may inform strategies for the prevention and mitigation of fire spread into forests and forest land.
