Black alder forests (type 91E0* Natura 2000 type E.2.1.9. NHC) in the Plitvice Lakes National Park

Black alder forests (Alnus glutinosa) in Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia, exhibit unique ecological characteristics distinct from other wetland black alder syntaxa in the region. The study, the first to monitor Natura 2000 habitat type 91E0* in this park, recorded 175 higher plant species across 44 hectares using the Braun-Blanquet method. These forests, thriving in periodically flooded, high groundwater habitats, are dominated by hygrophytes but also feature a notable presence of mesophilic species. They belong to the alliance Alnion glutinosae and share similarities with Central European associations like Carici acutiformis-Alnetum glutinosae, though their individuality is highlighted by differentiating species such as Phalaris arundinacea and Dactylorhiza maculata. The forests' development post-abandonment of non-forest areas suggests a dynamic ecological process influenced by karst topography and hydrology.

Vukelić, J., Orešković, M., Plišo Vusić, I., Poljak, I., Mei, G., & Šapić, I. (2019). Šume crne johe (tip 91E0* Natura 2000, tip E.2.1.9. NKS) u Nacionalnom parku Plitvička jezera. Šumarski List, 143(7-8), 304–305. https://doi.org/10.31298/sl.143.7-8.1