Evolutionary dynamics of birch (Betula aetnensis Rafin) coppices on the Mount Etna (Sicily)

Research on Mount Etna reveals three distinct evolutionary dynamics for birch (Betula aetnensis Rafin) coppices following the cessation of silvicultural activities. Stable birch stands persist in high mountain areas, potentially representing an edapho-climax forest. In intermediate zones, birch populations show progressive depletion, replaced by monospecific or mixed stands of Calabrian pine, beech, and oaks. Pure birch stands tend to regress under stress, transitioning to xerophilous grasslands. The study highlights that reintroduction of adapted coppice selection systems could sustain traditional forest landscapes while minimizing environmental impact. Investigations focused on forest structure, natural regeneration, vegetation, and deadwood across different stand types.

Bagnato, S., La_Piana, V., Mercurio, R., Merlino, A., Scarfò, F., Sciascia, N., Solano, F., & Spampinato, G. (2014). Evolutionary dynamics of birch (Betula aetnensis Rafin) coppices on the Mount Etna (Sicily). Forest@ - Rivista Di Selvicoltura Ed Ecologia Forestale, 11(2), 52–64. https://doi.org/10.3832/efor1191-011