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In order to consider forest biomass as a real alternative for energy production, it is critical to obtain accurate estimates of its availability using non-destructive sampling methods. In this study, we estimate the biomass available in a Scots pine-dominated forest (Pinus sylvestris L.) located in Spain. The biomass estimates were obtained using LiDAR data combined with a multispectral camera and allometric equations. The method used to fuse the data was based on back projection, which assures a perfect match between both datasets. The results present estimates for each of the seven different biomass components: above ground, below ground, log, needles, and large, medium and small branches. The accuracy of the models varied between R² values of 0.46 and 0.67 with RMSE% ranging from 15.72% to 35.43% with all component estimates below 20%, except for the model estimating biomass of big branches. The models in this study are suitable for the estimation of biomass and demonstrate that computation is possible at a fine scale for the different biomass components. These remote sensing methods are sufficiently accurate to develop biomass resource cartography for multiple energy uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The Périgord black truffle (Tuber melanosporum Vittad.) can mycorrhize with rockroses (Cistus L.) in Mediterranean forests. These shrubs may be of interest for truffle cultivation as they produce early carpophores, collaborate in tree mycorrhization and in the survival of Tuber melanosporum mycelium. However, there are very few quantitative studies on truffle production associated with Cistus. For this reason, we have carried out a study on the natural production of Tuber melanosporum associated with Cistus laurifolius L. in central Spain. An Anova test confirmed the existence of significant differences in carpophore production in four habitats, with and without the presence of C. laurifolius. Twenty-one burns associated with C. laurifolius showed less significant production than the rest. We also confirmed that in 122 burns, Tuber melanosporum was always unequivocally associated with the root base of Quercus L. or Corylus L. trees. Similarly, five truffle-collectors confirmed that they had never found a single burn with carpophore production associated exclusively with rockroses. It has also been statistically verified that many Cistus die in Tuber melanosporum burns, whereas in old burns with minimum carpophore production, a new colonization of young Cistus has been observed. This study also confirms that C. laurifolius mycorrhizes easily with Tuber melanosporum. We propose that Cistus laurifolius may act as transmitters of Tuber melanosporum, although they do not induce fruiting. Consequently, the commercial cultivation of Cistus laurifolius mycorrhized with Tuber melanosporum for production is not recommended in truffle culture. The results reported substantiate the negative observations in cultivations of T. melanosporum with other Cistus species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natura 2000 network is becoming increasingly important for ecosystem services but not all human activities are limited as long as they ensure protection of conservation values. Private owned areas should harmonize biodiversity conservation and other compatible land uses with human activities sustainability. The purpose of this study is to present a methodology for the assessment of urban use capacity considering restrictions presented in a Natura 2000 site in Central Spain (Madrid). This assessment takes the advantages of high-resolution images and point clouds LiDAR data using Object Based Images Analysis (OBIA). Considering different ranges of (i) tree height, (ii) slopes and (iii) the existing protected habitats, six scenarios of Urban use capacity were obtained. A canopy height vegetation was derived, and the maximum height was assigned to each delineated crown polygon tree. The implementation of this methodology proposes the largest potential urban area (Scenario 6) but priority habitats and habitats of Community interest were entirely removed from it. Finally, plots (1000 m 2) with greater or lesser capacity of vegetation coverage change were located. A total of 145 plots (6% of the whole property) with urban use low capacity were located. This methodology can be extrapolated to any protected area that seeks to harmonize biodiversity conservation and human activities. • Natura 2000 network seeks to harmonize biodiversity conservation and other land uses. • Scenarios of vegetation coverage change can be assessed combining range of tree heights, slopes, and protected habitats areas. • LiDAR images and point cloud using object-based image analysis provides satisfactory height and locations trees. • The maintenance habitats of European interest is a priority for the urban use capacity assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Criteria and indicators for location of Natura 2000 are presented. • Connectivity of Natura 2000 spaces is essential for their conservation. • Improvement of connectivity of protected areas is assessed with MSPA and PC indices. • Assessment of connectivity is necessary for management and conservation of Natura 2000 Network. The aim of the Natura 2000 Network is to ensure the conservation of habitats and species in their natural areas of distribution. Connectivity is an essential part of this conservation. For this purpose, a value map of importance for biodiversity (V.I.B) was generated proposing 4 levels of protection and overlapped with the Natura 2000 network. New boundaries for the zoning are proposed adding 1.600.000 ha. Two connectivity indices (MSPA and PC) are calculated in the 4 different scenarios. With these indices it is possible to know the number of existing nuclei and connectors in each of the scenarios. New boundaries cover more areas of interest for biodiversity as well as zones of great importance in relation to connectivity. We propose a uniform method that can be extrapolated to any European territory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]