The history and vegetation dynamics of a yew wood (Taxus baccata L.) in S.W. Ireland

Abstract

Reenadinna Wood is one of the largest Taxus baccata dominated woods in the British Isles. It is therefore of considerable ecological and conservation interest. To investigate the history and dynamics of the wood, pollen data from a small hollow within the wood are described. These data are compared with the regional pollen record and local historical and archaeological information. The yew wood appears to have developed at least 3000, but probably 5000 years ago from a wood previously dominated by pine, oak, elm and hazel. There is evidence to suggest that the wood has been disturbed by periods of patch cultivation and site occupancy. Copyright © 1990, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved