Aim of study: We performed a fine scale characterization of two European black poplar (Populus nigra) in situ conservation units, using a large sample of individuals and a comprehensive set of genetic markers. This information is pivotal to understand the population dynamics of the units for implementing conservation and management plans. Area of study: We studied two populations with distinct environments and management practices in Spain and Austria. Material and methods: We genotyped 500 adults and 250 juveniles within each population using 13K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. The populations were characterized in terms of fine scale genetic structure and clonality, while controlling for genotyping errors. Main results: The genomic data, with a low error rate, allowed the identification of groups of clones. The proportion of clonal individuals was 21.7% in Austria and 12.9% in Spain, despite efforts to avoid sampling obvious clonal copies. Some ramets within clonal groups were found more than 60 m apart at both sites. The genetic population structure of black poplar is complex in the two investigated sites, resulting from both clonal and sexual relationships among the individuals. Research highlights: A large number of SNP markers reveals novel information about within-population relationships in black poplar. We found substantial clonal reproduction, together with a high number of distinct genotypes resulting from sexual reproduction and/or migration. This structure allows natural selection to operate at two levels. We should take into consideration this complex genetic structure in conservation management to preserve the adaptive potential of the species under future climate conditions.
Aim of the study: Recent trends show an increase in valuation exercises within forest systems, alongside a rise in tools integrating economic valuations with geographic information systems for detailed ecosystem service values. The study investigates how these outputs are perceived and utilized by users. Area of the study: The survey has been distributed among different stakeholders in the Community of Madrid (Spain). Material and methods: Utilizing survey data, a logit model was employed to determine factors affecting the use of economic valuation information stemming from these tools among individuals. Main results: Results indicate that such valuations are seldom used in daily operations, though familiarity and experience enhance their application. Respondents prioritize regulating ecosystem services in value assessments. Research highlights: The valuation of forest ecosystem services at a national level remains limited, with stakeholders rarely using it consistently. However, those with more expertise tend to utilize them effectively.
Aim of study: This study aimed to estimate and compare the accuracy of tree height and timber volume of four Cerrado forest tree species using a digital canopy height model (CHM) derived from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV)-based photogrammetric data and field height measurements. Area of study: The research was conducted on a rural property undergoing productive recovery with native tree species, located in the Central Plateau of the Cerrado biome, Brazil. Material and methods: A UAV equipped with a multispectral camera was used to acquire a digital CHM of the study area. This data was then compared to field measurements of diameter at breast height (DBH) and total height of 143 individual trees from four species: Anadenanthera colubrina (Vell.) Brenan, Astronium urundeuva (M. Allemão) Engl., Astronium fraxinifolium Schott., and Plathymenia reticulata Benth. Main results: The tree heights obtained from the UAV-based multispectral camera were statistically similar to those measured manually using a graduated ruler, showing a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.81 and a root mean squared error (RMSE) of 1.22. The volume estimates showed an even higher correlation of 0.97 and an RMSE of 0.01. Research highlights: UAV-based photogrammetric data provides a fast and accurate method for estimating the height and volume of native Cerrado tree species, demonstrating its significant potential for application in forest inventories and management practices.
Aim of study: Wild mushrooms can constitute a source of food for humans, but knowledge on mushrooms consumption is uneven and fragmentary. In New Caledonia, a renowned biodiversity hotspot in southwest Pacific, no information is currently available. This study aimed to fill this gap through establishing the first list of native fungal species consumed by the population. Area of study: New Caledonia, Oceania. Material and methods: An approach combining an ethnomycological survey and a molecular identification has been undertaken. Interviews were semi-structured and were built around four main topics: (1) general information on the mushroom consumed (e.g. local names and criteria for recognition), (2) the gustatory and culinary aspects, (3) the sharing and sales practices, and (4) the other uses, particularly the medicinal uses and the myths, legends or tales about mushrooms. In parallel, when possible, mushrooms specimens were collected together with the respondents for molecular identification. Main results: Over the 20 ethnomycological surveys carried out, at least 19 distinct species were inventoried, with four being significantly more eaten than the others: the Auricularia, chanterelles, field mushrooms and oyster mushroom groups. The respondents came from all over the archipelago, suggesting a widespread and common habit among the interviewed people. Species from three of the four most consumed groups were collected and sequenced, refining their identification. Two bolete species were also collected and may be new to science. In addition, respondents shared several myths, tales, and medicinal uses related to mushrooms. Research highlights: Our findings undeniably highlight the incredible fungal diversity encountered in this biodiversity hotspot and greatly increase our knowledge on mushrooms consumption in Oceania.
Aim of study: To assess the impact of the exotic western conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis (WCSB), and the native pine cone moth, Dioryctria mendacella (PCM), two pests simultaneously feeding on cones and nuts of Pinus pinea; to identify the potential exogenous and endogenous factors controlling the impact of each pest, and to evaluate the occurrence of synergies and trade-offs between the pests. Area of study: Spanish Northern Plateau. Material and methods: Annual data on cone, nut and severity from each pest, collected in an extensive net of 52 plots (250 trees) installed in pure-even aged forests of Pinus pinea, covering nine years (2013-2021). Given the structure of the data and the proposed conceptual modelling, structural equation modelling (SEM) and path analysis were used. Main results: We observed an increasing pattern on the severity due to WCSB in the recent years, which may affect over 60% of pine nuts, while PCM tended to show a constant pattern, affecting on average 20% of the cones. Rate of severity of each pest was directly affected by the average size of a single cone, which was controlled by annual rainfall and stand age. Moreover, rising temperatures and age also exerted a direct and positive effect over the rate of severity of both pests, while the total amount of available cones in the year exerted a direct and negative effect. Complex temporal interactions between pest severities were identified. Research highlights: Severity of both pests is influenced by exogenous and endogenous factors, which may be aggravated under scenarios of climate change. These results support adaptive silviculture aimed at maintaining high cone availability to dilute pest impact.
