Effects of Post-Fire Silvicultural Treatments on Vegetation Dynamics of Pinus brutia Ten. Forests

Vegetation of Europe Diversity, Dynamics, Conservation, and Restoration, Perugia, İtalya, 28 Nisan - 02 Mayıs 2025, ss.63, (Özet Bildiri)

The Pinus brutia forests exhibit strong fire adaptation through serotinous cones, allowing natural

regeneration after wildfires. However, successful regeneration depends on the presence of a sufficient

canopy seed bank that remains viable despite the heat generated during the fire. In cases where natural

regeneration is insufficient, artificial regeneration techniques, such as seeding and planting, become

necessary to ensure forest continuity. Additionally, post-fire soil conservation measures are critical for

preventing land degradation. Depending on the fire severity, different silvicultural approaches can be

applied. While some studies have examined natural post-fire vegetation dynamics, the effects of

silvicultural treatments on vegetation remain unclear. This study aims to evaluate the effects of various post-

fire silvicultural treatments (natural regeneration, seed sowing, planting with mechanization, and soil

conservation measures through post-fire management) on vegetation dynamics. For this purpose, permanent

experimental plots were established in an area affected by wildfire in Antalya, Türkiye, and vegetation

surveys were conducted. Plant cover and abundance were assessed using the Braun-Blanquet scale, and

field data were analyzed using numerical analysis techniques. The results revealed significant floristic

differences among treatments. Species richness was significantly lower in planted areas than in others.

Although, colonization of ruderals occurred across all sites by the second post-fire year, it was more

pronounced in planted areas. In natural regeneration, seed sowing, and soil conservation sites, pre-fire

species successfully recolonized, indicating that mature Pinus brutia forests regenerate through an

autosuccession process after fire. In summary, mature Pinus brutia forests naturally regenerate after

wildfires. In cases where the seed bank is insufficient, seeding can support regeneration. Soil conservation

measures facilitate vegetation recovery. However, planting with soil mechanization negatively impacts

biodiversity. Therefore, when planting is necessary, soil mechanization should be applied in strips rather

than uniformly across the entire area to mitigate its negative impacts on biodiversity.