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The study was carried out in the Kivach Nature Reserve (62°17′ N, 33°58′ E) from September 2019 to October 2022 in the mature middle-taiga spruce forests on Albic Stagnosols developed from varved clays. The dynamics of litter decomposition was estimated by the litterbags method. The samples of ten different litter fractions were studied: needles, leaves, bark of the dominant tree species (Picea abies, Populus tremula, Betula pendula), and leaves of a subshrub (Vaccinium myrtillus). The sample mass loss and changes in chemical composition of the plant material were analyzed over 9, 14, 28, and 38 months of the experiment. The impact of different factors on the litter decay rate was studied, taking into account its volume, diversity, and quality. We estimated the rates of litter input and decay, as well as the forest floor turnover rate in relation to the parcella (unit of the biogeocenosis horizontal structure) heterogeneity. Forest floor volumes varied among zones of the tree phytogenic field from 26 to 108 t/ha. The forest floor turnover period was between 13–14 and 34 years in the spruce forest studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alnus glutinosa plays a crucial role in flood control, riverbank stabilization, and water purification. Recognized for its ecological significance, it is listed in the Red Book of Kazakhstan. This study investigated the genetic variability of A. glutinosa populations in Kazakhstan, analyzing 78 trees from seven populations in the Bayanaul mountain forest massif and the northern Turgay regions using 12 SSR markers. The study identified an average of 6.3 alleles and 2.783 effective alleles, as well as observed and expected heterozygosities of 0.570 and 0.562, respectively, reflecting genetic diversity. Among the populations, KS1 (northern Turgay) and PVL3 (Bayanaul) displayed the highest diversity, while PVL5 (Bayanaul) showed slightly lower diversity. The analysis of molecular variance results indicated that 86% of the genetic diversity occurred within populations, with 14% attributed to differences between populations. A UPGMA tree based on Nei's genetic distance revealed three distinct clusters, suggesting geographically structured genetic variability in A. glutinosa populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the findings from the Kosilovo mire in north-western Russia, focusing on the pollen data and sediment description. The mire is located in a temperate continental climate zone with mixed coniferous-broadleaved forests. The sediment core collected from the mire revealed changes in vegetation over the past 10,000 years, indicating shifts in tree species composition and climate conditions. The study also highlights the impact of human activity on the mire ecosystem. [Extracted from the article]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of average chip thickness and blade wear on the cutting power consumption and surface quality obtained in up-milling wood of different densities. The surface roughness was investigated using the contact method, recording the roughness parameters Ra and Rz, and the cutting power was determined using a wattmeter. The research was conducted for two variants of blade wear, i.e., sharp and blunt, and three variants of chip thickness (0.10, 0.06, and 0.02 mm). Four wood species with very different densities were tested, i.e., balsa (Ochroma pyramidale (Cav. ex Lam.) Urb.), obeche (Triplochiton scleroxylon K. Schum.), alder (Alnus glutinosa L. Gaertn.) and beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) For the lowest density woods, a better surface quality was found when cutting with a blunt knife compared to a sharp knife, while for the higher density woods (alder and beech) an inverse relationship was observed, i.e., a blunt knife resulted in increased surface roughness. For obeche wood, the surface roughness was dependent on the chip thickness. In addition, for low-density woods (balsa and obeche), no differences in cutting power were shown as a function of blade condition. It was shown that both an increase in wood density and chip thickness resulted in an increase in cutting power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litter decomposition is a crucial biochemical process regulated by microbial activities in the forest ecosystem. However, the dynamic response of the fungal community during litter decomposition to vegetation changes is not well understood. Here, we investigated the litter decomposition rate, extracellular enzyme activities, fungal community, and nutrient cycling-related genes in leaf and twig litters over a three-year decomposition period in a pure Liquidamabar formosana forest and a mixed L. formosana/Pinus thunbergii forest. The result showed that during the three-year decomposition, twig litter in the mixed forest decomposed faster than that in the pure forest. In both leaf litter and twig litter, β-cellobiosidase and N-acetyl-glucosamidase exhibited higher activities in the mixed forest, whereas phosphatase, β-glucosidase, and β-xylosidase were higher in the pure forest. The fungal α-diversity were higher in both litters in the pure forest compared to the mixed forest, with leaf litter showing higher α-diversity than twig litter. Fungal species richness and α-diversity within leaf litter increased as decomposition progressed. Within leaf litter, Basidiomycota dominated in the mixed forest, while Ascomycota dominated in the pure forest. Funguild analysis revealed that Symbiotroph and ectomycorrhizal fungi were more abundant in the mixed forest compared to the pure forest. In the third-year decomposition, genes related to phosphorus cycling were most abundant in both forests, with the pure forest having a higher abundance of cex and gcd genes. Fungal community structure, predicted functional structure, and gene composition differed between the two forest types and between the two litter types. Notably, the fungal functional community structure during the first-year decomposition was distinct from that in the subsequent two years. These findings suggest that dominant tree species, litter quality, and decomposition time all significantly influence litter decomposition by attracting different fungal communities, thereby affecting the entire decomposition process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased temperatures are altering rates of organic matter (OM) breakdown in stream ecosystems with implications for carbon (C) cycling in the face of global change. The metabolic theory of ecology (MTE) provides a framework for predicting temperature effects on OM breakdown, but differences in the temperature dependence of breakdown driven by different organismal groups (i.e., microorganisms vs. invertebrate detritivores) and litter species remain unresolved. Over two years, we conducted 12 60‐day leaf litterbag incubations in 20 headwater streams in the southern Appalachian Mountains (USA). We compared temperature dependence (as activation energy, Ea) between microbial and detritivore‐mediated breakdown, and between a highly recalcitrant (Rhododendron maximum) and a relatively labile (Acer rubrum) leaf species. Detritivore‐mediated breakdown had a higher Ea than microbial breakdown for both leaf species (Rhododendron: 1.48 > 0.56 eV; Acer: 0.97 > 0.29 eV), and Rhododendron breakdown had a higher Ea than Acer breakdown for both organismal groups. Similarly, the Ea of total (coarse‐mesh) Rhododendron breakdown was higher than the Ea of total Acer breakdown (0.89 > 0.52 eV). These effects for total breakdown were large, implying that the number of days to 95% mass loss would decline by 40% for Rhododendron and 26% for Acer between 12°C (our mean temperature value) and 16°C (+4°C, reflecting projected increases in global surface temperature due to climate change). Despite patterns in Ea, overall breakdown rates were higher for microbes than detritivores, and for Acer than Rhododendron over most of our temperature gradient. Additionally, the Ea for a subset of the microbial breakdown data declined from 0.40 to 0.22 eV when fungal biomass was included as a model predictor, highlighting the key role of fungi in determining the temperature dependence of litter breakdown. Our results imply that, as streams warm, routing of leaf litter C to detritivore‐mediated fates will increase faster than predicted by previous studies and MTE, especially for labile litter. As temperatures rise, earlier depletion of autumn‐shed, labile leaf litter combined with rapid breakdown rates of recalcitrant litter could exacerbate seasonal resource limitation and alter carbon storage and transport dynamics in temperate headwater stream networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the phytocenotic structure and biodiversity of forest ecosystems dominated by species of the family Betulaceae (Betula pendula, Betula pubescens, and Alnus glutinosa) in the Kostanay region of Kazakhstan. The research is a significant step toward understanding the influence of environmental factors, particularly hydrological regimes and soil conditions, on the formation and functioning of these forest communities. Field studies were conducted across multiple plots, where detailed geobotanical descriptions and analyses of species diversity were performed. The results underscore the significant species diversity, with 146 vascular plant species identified across various forest types, and are of great importance. Birch forests exhibit higher species diversity than alder forests, with the highest diversity observed in plots with favourable moisture conditions. The study concludes that the hydrological regime is critical in shaping these forest ecosystems' phytocenotic structure and productivity. These conclusions underline the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management in the region, making the implications of this research significant and far reaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planting nitrogen-fixing plants in post-mining sites and similar degraded areas is a common approach to speed up soil development and buildup of the nitrogen pool in soil organic matter. The aim of this study was to explore if slower growth of alder seedlings in initial post-mining sites results from adverse soil conditions or lack of microbial symbionts. To address this question, we sampled young soil (age 15 years) and more developed soil (age 70 years) from heaps after coal mining near Sokolov (Czech Republic). Soil samples were sterilized and not inoculated or inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) or AMF + Frankia, followed by planting with alder (Alnus glutinosa) seedlings germinated and precultured under sterile conditions. The effect of soil age on alder growth appeared to be non-significant. The only significant growth effect was seen with Frankia inoculation, implicating this inoculum as a key factor in later succession in post-mining soils. When the soil was fully inoculated, alder biomass was higher in developed soil supplied with iron (Fe) and phosphorus (P), indicating that iron and phosphorus availability may affect alder growth. In young soil, alder growth was highest with a combination of iron, phosphorus, and sulfur (S), and a positive effect of sulfur in young soil may correspond with a reduced, alkaline soil pH and increased phosphorus and iron availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing climate change calls for managing forest ecosystems in temperate regions toward more drought‐resistant and climate‐resilient stands. Yet ecological consequences of management options such as planting non‐native tree species and mixing coniferous and deciduous tree species have been little studied, especially on soil animal communities, key in litter decomposition and pest control. Here, we investigated the taxonomic and trophic structure of soil macrofauna communities in five forest types including native European beech (Fagus sylvatica), range‐expanding Norway spruce (Picea abies) and non‐native Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) as well as conifer‐beech mixtures across loamy and sandy sites in northern Germany. Abundance of primary decomposers (feeding predominantly on litter) was high in Douglas fir and beech forests, benefiting from less acidic soil and more favorable litter resources compared to spruce forests, while secondary decomposers (feeding predominantly on microorganisms and microbial residues) reached highest densities in spruce forests. Differences in abundance and species richness among forest types generally varied between regions and were most pronounced in Douglas fir of the sandy region. However, trophic guilds differed more between regions than between forest types, indicating that environmental factors outweigh the importance of forest type on soil macrofauna communities. The analysis of stable isotopes (δ15N and δ13C values) supported the general robustness in trophic position of macrofauna trophic guilds against variations in forest types and regions, but indicated reduced detrital shifts and food‐chain lengths in coniferous compared to European beech forests with mixtures mitigating these effects. Overall, for evaluating consequences of future forest management practices on the structure and functioning of soil animal communities, regional factors need to be considered, but in particular at loamy sites the taxonomic and trophic structure of soil macrofauna communities are resistant against changes in forest types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We identified groups of mayfly species that share microhabitats in eastern Cuban streams by sampling during rainy and dry seasons in four microhabitats in pools (cobbles, sand, leaf litter and bank vegetation) and one microhabitat (cobbles) in riffles. A total of 20 species and three morphospecies were found. Species similarity in habitat use was analysed using k-means clustering. Overall, the highest number of individuals was collected in cobbles in riffles, followed by cobbles in pools. Five species groups, labelled from I to V, were identified based on their primary microhabitat use. Two groups (I and V) included species with a generalist pattern of habitat use, but differing in seasonality. Species in remaining groups tend to concentrate in specific microhabitats. Species of groups II and IV use mostly cobbles in riffles and in pools, respectively, while species in group III concentrate in sand during the rainy season. Our results allowed to identify the species most vulnerable to alterations of the hydrologic regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon emissions and environmental concerns have led to the aspiration to reduce peat extraction and its use as a growing medium (GM). In Nordic Forest tree seedling production, Sphagnum peat has been almost exclusively used as a GM in seedling containers due to its good properties and availability. This study examined the feasibility of several peat-reduced and peat-free GM in container tree seedling production of the key tree species in Nordic forestry (Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst.) and silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) as well as Russian larch (Larix archangelica P. Lawson & C. Lawson ex Trautv.) and common alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn.). Pure or mixed GM, consisting of low-humified Sphagnum peat (pure as a control), harvested Sphagnum moss, wood fiber, cow manure digestate from a biogas plant, and a common reed compost were tested. Seedlings were grown in controlled conditions in greenhouse experiments and also in larger-scale commercial tree nurseries. Peat-reduced media containing peat of at least 50 vol% provided growth that is similar to pure Sphagnum peat for the tested species and container types. All the studied alternative media can yield marketable seedlings, although commonly of reduced size and requiring special adjustments in growing management. The studied media have a potential to reduce or replace peat in seedling production, but adjustments of their physical and chemical properties, as well as of seedling fertigation and management procedures, are required. The economic feasibility and environmental sustainability of these GM, as well as the outplanting success of seedlings grown in these media, remain to be studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biogeochemical cycles of trace elements are changed by fire as a result of the mineralization of organic matter. Monitoring the accumulation of trace elements in both the environment and the tree biomass during the post-fire (PF) forest ecosystem regeneration process is important for tree species selection for reforestation in ecosystems under anthropogenic pressure. We analyzed the soil concentrations of different groups of potentially toxic elements (PTEs), including beneficial (Al), toxic (Cd, Cr, Pb), and microelements (Cu, Mn, Ni, Zn), and their bioaccumulation in the tree species (Pinus sylvestris, Betula pendula, Alnus glutinosa) biomass introduced after a fire in a forest weakened by long-term emissions of industrial pollutants. The results indicated no direct threat from the PTEs tested at the PF site. The tree species introduced 30 years ago may have modified the biogeochemical cycles of the PTEs through different strategies of bioaccumulation in the belowground and aboveground biomass. Alder had relatively high Al concentrations in the roots and a low translocation factor (TF). Pine and birch had lower Al concentrations in the roots and higher TFs. Foliage concentrations and the TF of Cd increased from alder to pine to birch. However, the highest concentration and bioaccumulation factor of Cd was found in the alder roots. The concentrations of Cr in the foliage and the Cr TFs in the studied species increased from pine to birch to alder. Higher concentrations of Cu and Ni were found in the foliage of birch and alder than of pine. Among the species, birch also had the highest Pb and Zn concentrations in the roots and foliage. We found that different tree species had different patterns of PTE phytostabilization and ways they incorporated these elements into the biological cycle, and these patterns were not dependent on fire disturbance. This suggests that similar patterns might also occur in more polluted soils. Therefore, species-dependent bioaccumulation patterns could also be used to design phytostabilization and remediation treatments for polluted sites under industrial pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the global ecosystem, the slow decomposition of coniferous forest litter has caused a number of ecological problems, among which is the decay of China's Pinus massoniana litter. It has been pointed out that converting pure P. massoniana plantations into mixed forests with broadleaf species can improve ecosystem services. Therefore, the selection of mixed species is key for the success or failure of the conversion of near-natural forests. In this study, from the perspective of apoplastic decomposition, the leaf litter of P. massoniana was mixed with three common native broadleaf species, namely Choerospondias axillaries, Cinnamomum camphora, and Cyclobalanopsis glauca, using an indoor incubation method to systematically analyse the differences in the decomposition rates of apoplastic material in each mixture, and to provide a theoretical basis for the selection and mixing of tree species for the management of near-natural forests in P. massoniana forests. After 175 days of indoor incubation of the foliar litter under dark conditions at 25 °C, the residual dry matter of the mixed apoplastic litter of P. massoniana and the three broadleaf trees was lower than that of P. massoniana. It indicated that the incorporation of broadleaf apoplastic foliage promoted litter decomposition, with the most pronounced effect in the case of admixture with C. Camphora. Compared with the group of pure P. massoniana alone, the remaining mass and residual rate decreased by 0.56 g and 9.45%, respectively. The regression equation of Olson's negative exponential decay model showed that the P. massoniana + C. Camphora mixture had the fastest decomposition rate (k) of 1.305, an increase of 0.237, a decrease in half-life of 0.11 years, and a decrease in turnover period of 0.49 year, compared to the P. massoniana alone group. Most of the measured values throughout the incubation period were significantly lower than the predicted values, suggesting that there was a non-additive and synergistic effect of litter mixing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last 50 years, groundwater levels have been decreasing and air temperatures have been increasing in Poland. Maintaining this trend may make it impossible to maintain hydrogenic habitats in good condition. Reactions to ongoing climate change recorded in tree rings may be a good indicator describing the degree of this threat. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of climatic and hydrological changes on the growth of scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn) in the Narew National Park over past 50 years. The research was based on tree increment cores extracted from 42 pine trees and 57 alder trees that were randomly selected and ranged in age from 25 to 88 years, as well as climatic and hydrological data. Standardised data (5-year index) were analysed by species, generation (Y—21–40 years, M—41–60, O—61–90), and decade using correlation analysis. The results of the study show that pine responded more strongly to changes in air temperature and changes in precipitation totals, while alder growth was more strongly related to fluctuations in the water level of the Narew River and changes in precipitation totals. Our research showed that differences in response to environmental factors also occur between tree generations. The decrease in the water level of the Narew River that occurred over the last 50 years did not adversely affect the condition of the trees. Analysis of DBH growth rates showed that the younger generations (Y, M) grow faster than the older generation (O). This is positive news for managers of commercial and protected forests, but accelerated tree growth may be associated with specific consequences, such as increased wind damage as a result of reduced wood density or reduced sensitivity of trees to climate and hydrological changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesophyll resistance for CO2 diffusion (rm) is one of the main limitations for photosynthesis and plant growth. Breeding new varieties with lower rm requires knowledge of its distinct components.We tested new method for estimating the relative drawdowns of CO2 concentration (c) across hypostomatous leaves of Fagus sylvatica. This technique yields values of the ratio of the internal CO2 concentrations at the adaxial and abaxial leaf side, cd/cb, the drawdown in the intercellular air space (IAS), and intracellular drawdown between IAS and chloroplast stroma, cc/cbd. The method is based on carbon isotope composition of leaf dry matter and epicuticular wax isolated from upper and lower leaf sides. We investigated leaves from tree‐canopy profile to analyse the effects of light and leaf anatomy on the drawdowns and partitioning of rm into its inter‐ (rIAS) and intracellular (rliq) components. Validity of the new method was tested by independent measurements of rm using conventional isotopic and gas exchange techniques.73% of investigated leaves had adaxial epicuticular wax enriched in 13C compared to abaxial wax (by 0.50‰ on average), yielding 0.98 and 0.70 for average of cd/cb and cc/cbd, respectively. The rIAS to rliq proportion were 5.5:94.5% in sun‐exposed and 14.8:85.2% in shaded leaves. cc dropped to less than half of the atmospheric value in the sunlit and to about two‐thirds of it in shaded leaves.This method shows that rIAS is minor but not negligible part of rm and reflects leaf anatomy traits, i.e. leaf mass per area and thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan is a naturally abundant biopolymer that has been studied as an alter - native means to elicit beneficial responses in plants, such as enhanced plant growth and improved defense response. Most studies focus on agriculture and horticulture, but few have investigated forest trees. Based on chitosan's success as a biostimulant, we hypothesized that trees such as pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and alder (Alnus glutinosa L.) may also be positively affected by it. We evaluated vegetative growth parameters and secondary metabolites (phenolics, antioxidant indicators), pigments of seedlings grown in sterile in vitro and non-sterile ex vitro conditions to determine if various concentrations of chitosan solubilized in different solvents and stored in different conditions would significantly impact trees at various stages and conditions of growth. Results showed that in in vitro conditions, chitosan had a mainly positive effect on pine germination and growth, but a mainly negative effect on pine secondary metabolism (SM) indicators. In vitro grown alder's SMs were positively affected in all measured parameters, but chitosan had no effect on growth. Overall, ex vitro results indicated that chitosan has no effect on pine growth and varied impact on its SM indicators. Similarly, the effect on growth parameters and SM indicators was varied in alder. Results on how chitosan storage can affect its impact on tree growth showed that storage conditions had a significant impact on both pine and alder. Based on our data, future studies must carefully evaluate all possible variables to optimize chitosan use in silviculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. The objective of this study was to test the dose response of dietary supplementation with algae extracts rich in marine-sulphated polysaccharides (MSP1 and MSP2) on the growing performance, body composition at slaughter and caecal microbiota of broiler chickens. 2. Male broiler Ross 308 chicks 1-d-old were distributed into eight groups, a control group (unsupplemented), four groups supplemented with increasing doses of algae extract MSP1 (40, 81, 121 and 162 g/ton feed) and three groups supplemented with increasing doses of algae extract MSP2 (40, 81 and 162 g/ton feed). Each group comprised six pens of 56 chickens. 3. All chickens were reared under challenging conditions, i.e. high rearing density of 42 kg/m2, fed growing and finishing diets containing, palm oil, rye and high levels of wheat and subjected to short daily fasting periods. The growth performance was recorded during rearing. At 10, 22 and 31 d of age, 12 chickens per group were euthanised to collect the caecal contents and determine microbiota composition and short-chain fatty acid levels. At d 35, the quality of litter and the condition of feathers, footpads and tarsals were scored. At d 36, 7 chickens per pen were slaughtered under commercial conditions to determine carcass composition and breast meat quality (ultimate pH and colour). 4. Algal extract MSP1 increased the weight of the caeca and butyrate concentration in the caeca at d 22 (p ≤ 0.05). It increased the ultimate pH of breast fillet measured after slaughter at d 36 (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, the group receiving 162 g/t MSP1 had a more diverse microbiota at d22. However, algal extract MSP2 had negligible effect on the different measured parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to isolate red yeast from sap, bark and slime exudates collected from Polish birch forests and then assessment of their biotechnological potential. Results: 24 strains of red yeast were isolated from the bark, sap and spring slime fluxes of birch (Betula pendula). Strains belonging to Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (6), Rhodosporidiobolus colostri (4), Cystrofilobasidium capitaum (3), Phaffia rhodozyma (3) and Cystobasidium psychroaquaticum (3) were dominant. The highest efficiency of carotenoid biosynthesis (5.04 mg L−1) was obtained by R. mucilaginosa CMIFS 004, while lipids were most efficiently produced by two strains of P. rhodozyma (5.40 and 5.33 g L−1). The highest amount of exopolysaccharides (3.75 g L−1) was produced by the R. glutinis CMIFS 103. Eleven strains showed lipolytic activity, nine amylolytic activity, and only two proteolytic activity. The presence of biosurfactants was not found. The growth of most species of pathogenic moulds was best inhibited by Rhodotorula yeasts. Conclusion: Silver birch is a good natural source for the isolation of new strains of red yeast with wide biotechnological potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Headwater streams are reliant on riparian tree leaf litterfall to fuel brown food webs. Terrestrial agents like herbivores and contaminants can alter plant growth, litter production, litter quality, and the timing of litterfall into streams, influencing aspects of the brown food web. At Mount St. Helens (USA), early successional streams are developing willow (Salix sitchensis) riparian zones. The willows are attacked by stem-boring herbivores, altering litter quality and the timing of litterfall. Within a established experimental plots, willows (male and female plants) were protected from herbivores using insecticides and provided with experimental additions of nitrogen. This enabled us to test the interacting influences of herbivores, nitrogen deposition, and willow sex on leaf litter quality, aquatic litter decomposition, and microbial and invertebrate detritivores. We found weak litter quality effects (higher N and lower C:N) for the herbivore treatment, but no effect of nitrogen deposition. Although litter decomposition rates were not strongly affected by litter treatments, detritivore communities were altered by all treatments. Nitrogen deposition resulted in decreased bacterial richness and decreased fungal diversity in-stream. Aquatic macroinvertebrate communities were influenced by the interacting effects of herbivory and nitrogen addition, with abundances highest in herbivore litter with the greatest N addition. Shredders showed the highest abundance in male, herbivore-attacked litter. The establishment of riparian willows along early successional streams and their interacting effects with herbivores and nitrogen deposition may be influencing detritivore community assembly at Mount St. Helens. More broadly, global changes like increased wet and dry N deposition and expanded ranges of key herbivores might influence tree litter decomposition in many ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement Summary The discovery of a new genus within the family Thismiaceae, known as fairy lanterns, marks a significant scientific milestone in Japan, a country renowned for its botanical research. The unearthing of a new genus, especially in a well‐documented flora like Japan, is both rare and monumental. Unlike other fairy lanterns that bloom under leaf litter and can be easily overlooked, the new genus and species, Relictithismia kimotsukiensis, often does not even emerge above the surface of the soil when flowering. This captivating characteristic not only enriches our knowledge of botanical diversity but also emphasizes the importance of preserving natural habitats that harbor such rare species.The family Thismiaceae, known as “fairy lanterns”, is distinguished by its urn‐ or bell‐shaped, glasswork‐like flowers with basally fused tepals and its dependence on specific fungi for carbon. A new genus and species, Relictithismia kimotsukiensis, has been discovered in southern Japan. This species is notable for its unique anther‐stigma contact, hitherto unreported in the other Thismiaceae. Unlike typical fairy lanterns that bloom just above the leaf litter, Relictithismia often flowers beneath it. The underground habit is potentially associated with self‐pollination. The discovery of Relictithismia enhances our understanding of evolutionary pathways within the Thismiaceae, as it possesses characteristics previously thought to be unique to Thismia (the annulus with drooping stamens) as well as traits found in other genera (free stamens without expanded connectives). This paper reviews the morphology, ecology, and evolutionary history of Relictithismia, offering insights into the peculiarities of these enigmatic plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forestry is facing an unprecedented challenging time. Due to climate change, major tree species, which until recently fulfilled major ecosystem services, are being lost and it is often unclear if forest conversion with other native or nonnative tree species (NNT) are able to maintain or restore the endangered ecosystem services. Using data from the Austrian Forest Inventory, we analysed the current and future (2081-2100, RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) productivity of forests, as well as their protective function (avalanches and rockfall). Five different species change scenarios were considered for the replacement of a tree species failing in the future. We used seven native tree species (Picea abies, Abies alba, Pinus sylvestris, Larix decidua, Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur and Quercus petraea) and nine NNT (Pseudotsuga menziesii, Abies grandis, Thuja plicata, Pinus radiata, Pinus contorta, Robinia pseudoacacia, Quercus rubra, Fraxinus pennsylvanica and Juglans nigra). The results show that no adaptation would lead to a loss of productivity and a decrease in tree species richness. The combined use of native and NNT is more favorable than purely using native species in terms of productivity and tree species richness. The impact of the different species change scenarios can vary greatly between the different environmental zones of Austria (Alpine south, Continental and Pannonian). The Pannonian zone would benefit from the use of NNT in terms of timber production. For the protection against avalanches or rockfall in alpine regions, NNT would not be an advantage, and it is more important if broadleaved or coniferous trees are used. Depending on whether timber production, protective function or tree species richness are considered, different tree species or species change scenarios can be recommended. Especially in protective forests, other aspects are essential compared to commercial forests. Our results provide a basis for forest owners/managers in three European environmental zones to make decisions on a sustainable selection of tree species to plant in the face of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to climate changes, it is necessary to consider the use of other wood species to replace currently used woods. This work deals with the determination of the shear strength of bonded veneers (eight European wood species: spruce, larch, pine, beech, oak, poplar, birch, and alder) with Silekol® 311 melamine-urea-formaldehyde adhesive (MUF) with a variable coverage on the surface of the samples: 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 50, 75, and 100%. The Automated Bonding Evaluation System (ABES) was used to evaluate and compare adhesive bond strengths. The larch, beech, and oak samples exhibited greater single-lap shear strength than the control samples from spruce. There was no statistically significant difference in shear strength regarding the adhesive coverage from 100% to 20% on the surface of the samples, for almost all wood species. The results of the project provide basic information about the bonding strengths with different coverage in the adhesive layer, comparing non-commonly used wood species in wood-based composites such as oriented strand board and particleboard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Home-field advantage (HFA) in litter decomposition occurs widely in terrestrial ecosystems, but it remains unknown that how leaf, absorptive and transport roots differ in their HFA. Here we conducted a 635-day litter transplant (leaves, absorptive roots, and transport roots) decomposition experiment, using three tree species (Cyclobalanopsis multinervis, Fagus lucida, Cryptomeria japonica), in a subtropical forest to explore their differences in HFA effects. Results: The mass loss of leaves was higher than that of absorptive and transport roots. The mass loss of fine roots differed among species. Leaves were more prone to exhibit significant HFA compared to absorptive and transport roots, and absorptive roots were more prone to exhibit significant HFA compared to transport roots. The HFA effect was not explained by the initial chemical characteristics of litter except C concentration. Conclusions: These findings suggest that HFA effect can occur in labile and recalcitrant litters and are generally not regulated by the initial chemical characteristics. Absorptive and transport roots exhibit different HFA patterns, highlighting the need to identify the effects of HFA on root decomposition by functional classification rather than diameter class to gain a better understanding of fine root decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to adjust the structure of inefficient Pinus massoniana(P)forest and explore the dynamic changes for dissolved organic carbon(DOC)during the mixed decomposition process of P. massoniana and native broad-leaved tree species. Our research focuses on the leaf litter of P. massoniana, Cinnamomum camphora(C)and Toona sinensis(T), and combine them into the 15 treatments(3 single tree treatments + 12 mixed treatments)according to different tree species combinations and mass proportions, and then conducted field decomposition experiments to further explore the optimal tree species combination and the proportion of mixed planting for DOC release. The results were as follows:(1)DOC content of Pinus massoniana and most of mixed treatments(except for PT64)significantly increased during the early stages of decomposition(0-6 months), leading to carbon enrichment. The DOC content of leaf litter decreased with the extension of decomposition time, and also exhibited carbon enrichment in small degree during the middle to late stages of decomposition(12-18 months)or the late stages of decomposition(18-24 months). Mixed leaf litter showed that the higher the proportion of broad-leaved, the lower the DOC content in the later stage. (2)The antagonistic effect of DOC release rate in the early stage of decomposition(0-6 months)was strong(58. 33%), and only 8. 33%(1/12)of mixed treatments showed the synergistic effect. Its synergistic effect gradually strengthened(91. 67%)after 6-18 months, but the synergistic effect of leaf litter(66. 67%)during the late stage of decomposition weakened(18-24 months). Among all mixed treatments, PT64 exhibited synergistic effects throughout the entire decomposition stage, followed by PT73, PCT622 and PCT613(3/4). (3)Partial least-squares(PLS)regression showed that N content, P content, lignin content, condensed tannin content, C/N, C/P, lignin/N, and lignin/P were important quality factors affecting the release of DOC from litter in this study area. Overall, the DOC release from mixed Pinus massoniana and broad-leaved leaf litter is affected by tree species, mixed proportion and decomposition time. Compared to other mixed treatments, the proportion of broad-leaved greater is than or equal to 30. 00% and the mixed leaf litter treatments including Toona sinensis(PT64, PT73, PCT622 and PCT613)show strong synergistic effects for DOC release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant species affect key ecosystem processes like nutrient cycling and overall ecosystem productivity through their litter. The outcome of litter effects is largely determined by its decomposability, which directly effects soil properties. If litter remains standing or unshed (i.e. marcescent), its final decomposability can be increased by photodegradation of recalcitrant structures (like lignin). If the litter is immediately shed, its decomposability largely depends on its original nutrient content. Moreover, plant species may affect soil also through other, more direct effects. It is however unknown whether marcescent and immediately shed litters affect soil, and by that plants, differently, whether direct effects of plants on soil interact with those of marcescent and shed litters, and whether these interactions are consistent under different soil conditions.We set up a pot experiment, where we tested the effects of originally marcescent and shed litters (both added on the soil surface of the pots) on three grassland species (Bromus erectus, Filipendula vulgaris and Plantago media) in contrasting soils from long‐term stable ancient grassland and grassland restored on arable land 20 years before. We also tested how litter types and plant species affect soil chemical properties and microbial community (characterised by PLFA markers).Marcescent litter contained a lower amount of nutrients, but still increased plant biomass more than shed litter, although only for F. vulgaris (likely due to mobilisation of soil nutrients).The effect of litter on soil chemical properties and microbial community was low. These were largely affected by the plant species growing in the pot. The effect of these species on the microbial community was stronger in the undisturbed soil of ancient grasslands, while plant species affected mainly chemical properties in disturbed soil of restored grasslands. B. erectus slowed down the decomposition of both litter types in restored grassland soil.The effect of marcescent litter on living plants was significant but species‐specific and depended on soil conditions. Marcescence seems to have a stronger effect on plants in disturbed soil, which indicates its importance for recovery of the ecosystem after disturbance. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decomposition of plant litter, most of which is found in forests, is an important element of the global carbon cycle, as a result of which carbon enters the atmosphere in the form of not only CO2 but also volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Although the formation of litter is associated with autumn cooling, in the spring, there is a very intense fall of faded inflorescences of woody plants. This study examined the chemical composition of the litter and VOCs emitted from decaying inflorescences of four species of forest-forming trees: silver birch, European hornbeam, black alder and aspen. All litter emissions consisted of 291 VOCs, mainly terpenes actively participating in atmospheric processes. The detection of a number of typical mushroom metabolites, such as 1-octen-3-ol, known as "mushroom alcohol", and alkyl sulphides, suggests that inflorescence-derived VOCs are a mixture of components of plant and microbial origin. In methanol extracts of the fallen inflorescences of all types, 263 organic compounds were identified, the majority of which were related to carbohydrates. Their share in the extracts was 72–76%. In general, the composition of the extractive compounds indicates the easy availability of this material for assimilation by various types of destructors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of plants to colonize the fluvial environment and withstand uprooting by floods is largely controlled by the anchoring effect of roots. We characterized the root architecture and tensile strength of Alnus incana, a riparian tree species of the Betulaceae family for which there are no systematic observations of its vertical root structure. Four A. incana individuals and two nearby Populus nigra 3–10 years old growing on bars in gravel‐bed rivers were excavated. Their root structure was characterized in terms of root diameter, age, and depth and was related to sediment grain size and scour or deposition by floods. Root tensile strength was also measured as a function of root diameter using a load cell and displacement transducer attached to individual roots. The architecture of A. incana roots differed from that of nearby P. nigra, as all roots were in fine, sandy sediments, growing in one or more dense radial layers of which the most prominent was 0.2–0.3 m below the surface. The layers reflect deposition of fine sediments during floods. New fine sediment deposits promote the growth of a new root layer close to the aggraded ground surface. Root tensile strength was similar to Salicaceae species. These observations indicate that A. incana colonizes habitats that have already received fine sediment deposition, most likely induced by other young plants, especially Salicaceae species. A. incana then provides a high near‐surface root biomass, potentially further stabilizing surfaces and playing a complementary role as an ecosystem engineer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subfamily Phimophorinae includes ~113 species of cryptic assassin bugs found in the Neotropics and Paleotropics. Presumably due to its small size, cryptic coloration, and occurrence in the remote Eastern Arc Mountains (EAM), Porcelloderes impenetrabilis Rédei, 2012 (Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Phimophorinae), was only recently described as the first representative of this subfamily from mainland Africa. Previous morphology-based phylogenetic research on Phimophorinae (then known as Physoderinae or Epiroderinae) recovered Porcelloderes as sister taxon to the remaining epiroderine-lineage of Phimophorinae. Recent fieldwork in Tanzania has resulted in 241 additional specimens of Porcelloderes from 3 EAM) ranges. We used molecular and morphological analyses for these 241 specimens to (i) determine their species identity, (ii) test the phylogenetic position of Porcelloderes within Phimophorinae, and (iii) determine if divergence within Porcelloderes coincides with periods of climate-driven forest fragmentation in the EAM. Specimens from the Kimboza and Nguru Mountains likely represent P. impenetrabilis , but we here describe Porcelloderes harles , n. sp. from the Udzungwa Mountains. Our molecular phylogeny shows Porcelloderes nested within the epiroderine-lineage of Phimophorinae and as sister taxon to a Madagascar clade. We estimate that the epiroderine-lineage diverged from other Phimophorinae ~44 MYA. The divergence estimates for the 2 Porcelloderes species is ~15 MYA, consistent with proposed dates for other EAM assassin bugs and a period of forest fragmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing environmental awareness and the carbon-storing capability of wood have amplified its relevance as a building material. The demand for high-quality wood species necessitates exploring alternative, underutilized wood sources due to limited forest areas and premium wood volume. Consequently, the veneer-based industry is considering lower-value hardwood species like grey alder (Alnus Incania), black alder (Alnus glutinosa), and aspen (Populus tremula) as substitutes for high-quality birch (Betula pendula). Initially less appealing due to their lower density and mechanical properties, these species show promise through densification, which enhances their density, strength, and hardness. This study aims to enhance plywood screw withdrawal capacity and surface hardness by densifying low-density wood species and using them in plywood face-veneer layers, or in all layers. The relationship between the wood density, surface hardness, and screw withdrawal capacity of plywood made of low-value species like aspen and black alder is examined. Experimental work with a pilot-scale veneer and plywood production line demonstrates improved surface hardness (65% and 93% for aspen and black alder, respectively) and screw withdrawal capacity (16% and 35% for aspen and black alder, respectively) in densified face veneer plywood. This research highlights the potential of densified low-value wood species to meet construction requirements, expanding their practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study is to comprehensively evaluate the natural weathering performance of three wood species representing hardwood and softwood modified with the acetylation process. Alder (Alnus glutinosa L.), beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), and radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) were characterised by various techniques to determine the aesthetical, chemical, and physical changes. The overall aesthetic performance of the investigated species was similar, with all showing a change in appearance after 9 months of exposure. However, the multi-sensor approach used for characterisation revealed differences in weathering behaviour related to surface erosion, wettability, and changes in chemical composition between the investigated species. An increase in the surface roughness observed for both hardwoods was associated with the erosion of the wood surface and the leaching of photodegraded chemical components. On the contrary, values of Sa remained relatively constant for acetylated radiata pine. Acetylated pine wood exhibited lower susceptibility to bleaching at the initial stage of the weathering process (3 months) and represented a more constant CIE L* compared to the investigated hardwood species. The contact angle measured with water gradually decreased in the case of acetylated radiata pine for up to six months, then it plateaued with a slight oscillation around 15°. For both hardwood species, the big drop was observed already after three months, followed by rather similar values. The PCA of IR spectra highlighted different mechanisms in the weathering of acetylated softwood and hardwood. The acetylated hardwood samples showed higher thermal stability than acetylated radiata pine. Experimental findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the long-term performance of acetylated wood, which directly influences its practical applications by enhancing design strategies, maintenance planning, product development, market acceptance, and overall sustainability. Performed tests have demonstrated the potential of underutilised hardwood species, enhanced through the acetylation process, to serve as alternative cladding materials to commonly used acetylated radiata pine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about how drought-related mortality influences light absorption of surviving trees and consequent changes in tree species interactions. Here, we used the detailed tree-level light model (Maestra) in combination with measurements of tree dimensions, crown architectures, and stand structures to examine experimental mixing effects of Fagus sylvatica , Alnus glutinosa , and Betula pendula on light dynamics following a drought in Bangor, Wales. The experimental stands, planted in 2004, were composed of clusters with one to three species in different combinations. Droughts occurred in 2011 and 2014 during the growing seasons, and trees were measured in 2014 and 2015. Species mixing resulted, on average, in higher tree growth, absorption of photosynthetically active radiation (APAR), and light-use efficiency (LUE) compared with the mean of the monocultures. An exception was the monoculture of B. pendula , which was the most productive species and had higher growth, APAR, or LUE than some mixtures. Drought-related mortality reduced the stand basal area across all plots by an average of 8.3% and tree density by 11%. This moderate change in the structure did not result in significant increases in individual tree APAR, LUE, or growth. From a management perspective, mortality might need to reduce stand density more strongly than it did in this study before light absorption or LUE is altered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Microbes strongly affect invasive plant growth. However, how phyllosphere and rhizosphere soil microbes distinctively affect seedling mortality and growth of invaders across ontogeny under varying soil nutrient levels remains unclear. In this study, we used the invader Ageratina adenophora to evaluate these effects. We found that higher proportions of potential pathogens were detected in core microbial taxa in leaf litter than rhizosphere soil and thus leaf inoculation had more adverse effects on seed germination and seedling survival than soil inoculation. Microbial inoculation at different growth stages altered the microbial community and functions of seedlings, and earlier inoculation had a more adverse effect on seedling survival and growth. The soil nutrient level did not affect microbe-mediated seedling growth and the relative abundance of the microbial community and functions involved in seedling growth. The effects of some microbial genera on seedling survival are distinct from those on growth. Moreover, the A. adenophora seedling-killing effects of fungal strains isolated from dead seedlings by non-sterile leaf inoculation exhibited significant phylogenetic signals, by which strains of Allophoma and Alternaria generally caused high seedling mortality. Our study stresses the essential role of A. adenophora litter microbes in population establishment by regulating seedling density and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf litter decomposition is a key ecosystem process in headwater streams, influenced by physical fragmentation, microbial degradation and feeding activity by stream biota. In some tropical streams, feeding by freshwater shrimps can exert strong top-down control on leaf litter decomposition, however, variation in shrimp macroconsumer effects across small spatial scales or among years is not well-known. We ran 50-day macroconsumer exclusion experiments to measure shrimp effects on leaf decomposition in two adjacent headwater streams in Puerto Rico, in 2017 (immediately prior to two Category 4 and 5 hurricanes) and again in 2018 and 2019, to assess shrimp effects in the context of post-hurricane conditions that included reduced canopy cover and higher shrimp (Atya and Xiphocaris) counts. Leaf decomposition was faster when shrimp had access to leaf packs, but only in the study stream with larger pools, which also had higher overall shrimp counts. However, increased shrimp abundances following the hurricanes did not result in faster decomposition, potentially because shrimp diets shifted toward algae post-hurricanes when canopies were more open. We conclude that shrimp effects on leaf litter breakdown may vary between adjacent streams that differ in habitat conditions and that increasing local shrimp abundances may fail to accelerate decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decomposition is a key determinant of forest functioning, controlling nutrient and carbon cycling. Although litter-mixing effects on decomposition (that is, using mixtures of litter of different species) have been studied extensively, less is known about the indirect effects of modified microenvironments via overstory tree species mixing. To investigate the effects of tree species diversity on decomposition, we installed 384 standardized litterbags, filled with leaf litter of four broadleaved tree species with contrasting litter quality, in a large, 10-year-old tree diversity experiment. To quantify microenvironments, we used microclimate sensors, below-canopy rain gauges and measured soil characteristics. We then analysed indirect tree species diversity effects, that is, tree species richness effects on mass loss rates via tree species-induced alterations in the microclimate, throughfall and soil characteristics. We found that understory microenvironmental conditions indeed affect mass loss rates, with the main drivers differing among incubation stages. Predominantly soil phosphorus, but also vapour pressure deficit and throughfall amounts, was negatively associated with mass loss rates across litter types during the first 2 months of the decomposition process. After 6 months of the decomposition, soil moisture was found to be the key determinant positively affecting mass loss rates. In sum, our research contributes to a better understanding of the determinants of decomposition and shows an important pathway in which tree species diversity affects decomposition, via modified microenvironmental conditions acting via the soil, microclimate and throughfall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The restoration of native vegetation like pines helps mitigate soil erosion, but the effects of pine needle litter on runoff, erosion, and hydrology in karst hillslopes are unclear. This study investigated these factors during the rainy season from June to August 2021 under six treatments (flat, gentle, and steep slopes with and without pine needle coverings). The results showed that pine needle litter significantly increased the soil water content, particularly on steeper slopes, by improving the water-holding capacity. It also substantially reduced runoff (by 23.8%) and soil erosion (by 92.5%). The critical rainfall threshold for generating runoff did not occur in the pine needle covering treatment, whereas it was 19.3 ± 8.8 mm in the bare soil treatment under wet conditions. These findings highlight the efficacy of pine needle cover in reducing runoff and erosion in karst areas, promoting it as a sustainable method for restoring degraded soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of Phytophthora species have been identified as destructive plant pathogens and invasive species. They have the potential to affect a wide range of host plants and cause diseases in agricultural and forest ecosystems. Two Phytophthora species from rhizosphere soil samples collected from declining Alnus glutinosa in Bulgaria were isolated in the autumn of 2022. They were identified as Phytophthora polonica and Phytophthora hydropathica according to the DNA sequence analysis of the ITS region, as well as their morphological and physiological characteristics. The pathogenicity of both species to common and gray alder was evaluated by the inoculation of detached leaves and cuttings. Experimental data proved that P. polonica and P. hydropathica are able to cause leaf necrosis not only on A. glutinosa from which they were derived, but also on A. incana. No significant deference in the aggressiveness of the studied isolates from both Phytophthora species against the two tested plants was observed. Therefore, P. polonica and P. hydropathica were determined as potential threats for alder ecosystems in the country. This is the first report for the isolation of P. polonica in Bulgaria and represents the most southeastern point of the species distribution in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mast seeding is a well‐documented phenomenon across diverse forest ecosystems. While its effect on aboveground food webs has been thoroughly studied, how it impacts the soil fungi that drive soil carbon and nutrient cycling has not yet been explored. To evaluate the relationship between mast seeding and fungal resource availability, we paired a Swiss 29‐year fungal sporocarp census with contemporaneous seed production for European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.). On average, mast seeding was associated with a 55% reduction in sporocarp production and a compositional community shift towards drought‐tolerant taxa across both ectomycorrhizal and saprotrophic guilds. Among ectomycorrhizal fungi, traits associated with carbon cost did not explain species' sensitivity to seed production. Together, our results support a novel hypothesis that mast seeding limits annual resource availability and reproductive investment in soil fungi, creating an ecosystem 'rhythm' to forest processes that is synchronized above‐ and belowground. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To what extent particular plant defences against herbivorous insects are constitutive or inducible will depend on the costs and benefits in their neighbourhood. Some defensive chemicals in leaves are thought to be costly and hard to produce rapidly, while others, including volatile organic compounds that attract natural enemies, might be cheaper and can be released rapidly. When surrounding tree species are more closely related, trees can face an increased abundance of both specialist herbivores and their parasitoids, potentially increasing the benefits of constitutive and inducible defences. To test if oaks (Quercus robur) respond more to herbivore attacks with volatile emission than with changes in leaf phenolic chemistry and carbon to nitrogen ratio (C: N), and whether oaks respond to the neighbouring tree species, we performed an experiment in a forest in Poland. Oak saplings were placed in neighbourhoods dominated by oak, beech, or pine trees, and half of them were treated with the phytohormone methyl jasmonate (elicitor of anti-herbivore responses). Oaks responded to the treatment by emitting a different volatile blend within 24 h, while leaf phenolic chemistry and C: N remained largely unaffected after 16 days and multiple treatments. Leaf phenolics were subtly affected by the neighbouring trees with elevated flavan-3-ols concentrations in pine-dominated plots. Our results suggest that these oaks rely on phenols as a constitutive defence and when attacked emit volatiles to attract natural enemies. Further studies might determine if the small effect of the neighbourhood on leaf phenolics is a response to different levels of shading, or if oaks use volatile cues to assess the composition of their neighbourhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight (CA) is experiencing challenges with continuous cropping obstacle (CCO) due to soil-borne fungal pathogens. The leaf litter from CA is regularly incorporated into the soil after root harvesting, but the impact of this practice on pathogen outbreaks remains uncertain. In this study, a fungal strain D1, identified as Fusarium solani , was isolated and confirmed as a potential factor in CCO. Both leave extract (LE) and root extract (RE) were found to inhibit seed germination and the activities of plant defense-related enzymes. The combinations of extracts and D1 exacerbated these negative effects. Beyond promoting the proliferation of D1 in soil, the extracts also enhanced the hypha weight, spore number, and spore germination rate of D1. Compared to RE, LE exhibited a greater degree of promotion in the activities of pathogenesis-related enzymes in D1. Additionally, caffeic acid and ferulic acid were identified as potential active compounds. LE, particularly in combination with D1, induced a shift in the composition of fungal communities rather than bacterial communities. These findings indicate that the water extract of leaf litter stimulated the growth and proliferation of fungal strain D1, thereby augmenting its pathogenicity toward CA and ultimately contributing to the CCO process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particleboard, engineered wood products as part of a large family of wood composite materials, developed in use mainly in the 1950s and 1960s to utilize inferior wood and wood waste when good-quality wood was in short supply; the annual production capacity worldwide is over 100 million m3. It is also necessary to have a lot of wood raw material for its production, although raw material resources are limited on our planet. In addition to the main wood species, it is therefore possible to think about the wider use of alternative, lesser-known European species of alder, larch, and birch in particleboard production. These three wood species represent an eco-friendly and sustainable wood alternative to the conventional wood raw materials used. This review confirms the diversity of the use of these three species in different fields and proves their suitability in relation to particleboard production. Fundamental research is ongoing in certain universities to determine the proportional shares of use of these tree species in particleboard (in a certain weight proportion in their core layers) for the purpose of formulating the correct technology shares and rules for their application in the wood-based panel industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During plant development, woody plants progress from a juvenile phase to the reproductive mature phase. This process is marked by morphological, physiological, and biochemical changes, including loss of competence to vegetative reproduction. During in vitro stabilisation, mature tissues undergo rejuvenation, however, the exact degree of juvenility attained is not known and differing regeneration capabilities are observed between genotypes. Markers indicating juvenility state would assist the in vitro rejuvenation process and increase the efficiency of successful micropropagation. Several leaf and stem morphological and anatomical traits were analysed as possible juvenility markers in mature and rejuvenated silver birch in vitro shoots. The results showed that juvenility state of birch in vitro shoots varies between different genotypes and between plants from the same genotype. Mature birch in vitro shoots had approximately two times larger and thicker leaves compared to rejuvenated and juvenile shoots. Stem radius, including cortex, phloem, xylem and pith width as well as phloem width : stem radius and phloem width : xylem width ratio was significantly larger in mature shoots. Periderm development and loss of rooting ability were observed in mature shoots. These anatomical and morphological traits could be used as possible juvenility/maturation markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melanommataceous species exhibit high diversity with a cosmopolitan distribution worldwide and show a prominent saprobic lifestyle. In this study, we explored five saprobic species collected from plant litter substrates from terrestrial habitats in China and Thailand. A combination of morphological characteristics and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses was used to determine their taxonomic classifications. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analyses of combined LSU , SSU , ITS and tef1-α sequence data were used to clarify the phylogenetic affinities of the species. Byssosphaeria poaceicola and Herpotrichia zingiberacearum are introduced as new species, while three new host records, Bertiella fici, By. siamensis and Melanomma populicola are also reported from litter of Cinnamomum verum, Citrus trifoliata and Fagus sylvatica, respectively. Yet, despite the rising interest in the melanommataceous species, there is a considerable gap in knowledge on their host associations and geographical distributions. Consequently, we compiled the host-species associations and geographical distributions of all the so far known melanommataceous species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the tropics, more precisely in equatorial dense rainforest, xylogenesis is driven by a little distinct climatological seasonality, and many tropical trees do not show clear growth rings. This makes retrospective analyses and modeling of future tree performance difficult. This research investigates the presence, the distinctness, and the periodicity of growth ring for dominant tree species in two semi‐deciduous rainforests, which contrast in terms of precipitation dynamics. Eighteen tree species common to both forests were investigated. We used the cambial marking technique and then verified the presence and periodicity of growth‐ring boundaries in the wood produced between pinning and collection by microscopic and macroscopic observation. The study showed that all eighteen species can form visible growth rings in both sites. However, the periodicity of ring formation varied significantly within and between species, and within sites. Trees from the site with clearly defined dry season had a higher likelihood to form periodical growth rings compared to those from the site where rainfall seasonality is less pronounced. The distinctness of the formed rings however did not show a site dependency. Periodical growth‐ring formation was more likely in fast‐growing trees. Furthermore, improvements can be made by a detailed study of the cambial activity through microcores taken at high temporal resolution, to get insight on the phenology of the lateral meristem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decline of soil fertility is the main threat for decreasing of agricultural production and productivity. To reduce this problem, managing and utilizing important resources obtained from multipurpose farmland trees are important to improve soil fertility in sustainable means. This study was designed to evaluate the composition, decomposition, and release of important soil nutrients of leaf litter in dominant farmland tree species. Decomposition of leafy litter was performed using litterbags at JARC in the main station to determine the decomposition rate of three-tree species leaf litter to understand the contribution of retained species on farmland for soil fertility improvement. The leaf litter of Cordia africana, Vitex doniana and Terminalia brownie, composed of 46.5%, 49.6%, and 49.7% organic carbon in amount, respectively. Cordia africana decomposed faster than Terminalia brownie and Vitex doniana. This study aimed to evaluate the issues concerning weight loss, decomposition rates, chemical composition, and important nutrients released from the leaf litter of the studied tree species. This study recommended that it is important to assess annually produced leaf litter resources and study species composition effect on decomposition and mineralization of organic biomass, and the association organisms with these processes in farming systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modern typological structure of vegetation inhabiting the southern Kuril Islands has been identified on the basis of computed Bravais correlation coefficients. This structure is represented by eight pleiades: fir forests with Abies sachalinensis; spruce forests with Picea ajanensis; Sasa senanensis thickets (Shikotan Island); elm–maple forests with Acer ukurunduense and Acer mayrii (Kunashir Island); maple–oak forests with Acer mayrii and Quercus crispula (Iturup Island); Juniperus sargentii thickets (Shikotan Island) and communities with Pinus pumila (Iturup and Kunashir Islands); and alder–birch phytocoenoses, reed–tall-grass and coastal meadows, and ruderal vegetation. The species diversity of plants is determined by local species of East Asian origin. The amphipacific group manifested along the coastline demonstrates the affinity of local species and the North American flora. The proportion of foreign species increases on disturbed sites. Indigenous phytocoenoses are represented by fir and spruce forests, as well as Pinus pumila and Juniperussargentii thickets in the mountains and on the rocks. Under the impact of unfavorable factors, indigenous groups are replaced by birch forests with Betula ermanii and secondary meadows, including ruderal–forb–gramineous coenoses; felling and fire sites are overgrowing with bamboo thickets with Sasa senanensis. Preliminary estimates indicate that the share of disturbed lands on Shikotan reaches 40%, including 30% disturbed by anthropogenic impacts and 10% due to natural factors. On Kunashir, proportions of these lands amount to 16 and 17%, respectively, and, on Iturup, 23 and 16%. It is shown that Sasa senanensis thickets, despite their secondary nature, play a key role in preventing the further degradation of natural complexes, soil erosion, and exogenous geological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms are vital in leaf litter decomposition and contribute significantly to global nutrient cycling. However, there is a need for improved understanding of the taxonomic and functional diversity of litter-associated bacteria. The Knyszyn Forest comprises a unique ecosystem providing diverse microhabitats for microorganisms in central Europe, similar to the southwestern taiga in many respects. This study presents the results of high-throughput sequencing performed for Betula pendula, B. pubescens, and Carpinus betulus litter-associated microbial communities from northern Poland. Microbial assemblage composition and structure at different stages of litter decomposition revealed the domination of phyllosphere-associated taxa of Sphingomonas and Pseudomonas in bacterial communities in the early stages. Meanwhile, at the later stages of decomposition, the representation of soil-associated bacterial communities, such as Pedobacter, was higher. This study identifies key bacteria (Pedobacter, Mucilaginibacter, and Luteibacter) as pivotal in nutrient cycling through cellulose and hemicellulose decomposition, dominating later decomposition phases. Taxonomic analysis based on functional markers associated with nitrogen metabolism highlights the pivotal role of specific Pseudomonadota (Proteobacteria) taxa in driving nitrogen cycling dynamics during litter decomposition. Most of these taxa were unclassified at the genus level, particularly in the later stages of litter decomposition, and are crucial in mediating nitrogen transformation processes, underscoring their significance in ecosystem nutrient cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alder yellows (ALY) phytoplasma (16SrV-C) is associated with ALY, a disease of several Alnus (alder) species in Europe and A. rubra in North America. In all affected species, the symptoms are similar. However, latent infections are common. ALY phytoplasma includes different strains which may be occasionally transmitted to grapevines leading to some grapevine yellows diseases. In the current study, visual symptom assessment and PCR-based methods using universal and group-specific phytoplasma primers were used to update and extend knowledge on the occurrence, impact, and genetic diversity of ALY phytoplasma in declining and non-symptomatic A. glutinosa and A. cordata trees in the Basilicata and Campania regions of southern Italy. ALY phytoplasma was detected in 80% of alder trees examined. In symptomatic trees, no other cause of disease was observed. More than half of alder trees that tested phytoplasma-positive proved to be latently infected. A considerable genetic variability was observed among the newly recorded ALY phytoplasma strains in southern Italy in almost of the genes examined. These included 16S rRNA, 16S/23S rDNA spacer region, ribosomal protein rpsV (rpl22) and rpsC (rps3), map, imp, and groEL genes. Eleven new genotypes were identified at map gene sequence level. However, the genetic differences observed were not related to plant host species, geographical origin, and symptoms shown by infected alder trees. Also, this study indicates that ALY phytoplasma is more widespread than previously thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increased number of forest fires, a detailed examination and knowledge of the effects of the microclimatic conditions of forests is currently significant. The study carried out in Arboretum Borova hora (Slovak Republik), investigates the influence of meteorological factors (air temperature, relative humidity), the value of the Angström index, and the danger class of the Angström index on the moisture content of fine fuel at the edge of a beech forest stand, but also in its interior. We tested three working hypotheses: a) meteorological conditions differ significantly between the edge and the interior of the beech forest, b) the moisture content of fine fuel is higher in the beech forest interior than at the forest edge, c) the Angström index fire danger class is higher at the edge of the beech forest than in its interior. We created a calibration curve that was also used to measure the humidity of beech leaves with the help of the ME 2000 hygrometer. Our results show that edge beech stands are significantly more susceptible to fires, lower air humidity and fine fuel moisture content, and higher air temperatures than forest interiors. From our point of view, the microclimate is considered the main factor that explains the difference between the vegetation structure of the forest edge and the forest interior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a genome assembly of a diploid specimen of Alnus glutinosa (the common alder; Streptophyta; Magnoliopsida; Fagales; Betulaceae). The genome sequence has a total length of 456.80 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 14 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome assemblies have lengths of 505.23 and 155.85 kilobases and the plastid genome is 160.82 kilobases long. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 23,728 protein-coding genes.