The use of dendroecology in forest management: A review

Abstract

Dendroecology is a sub-discipline of dendrochronology, which refers to the study of ecological processes in a forest through the analysis of tree rings in a forest stand. This sub-discipline is useful for understanding the growth dynamics, in natural and managed conditions. The objective of this study was to review the application of dendroecology as a forest management tool. Seventy-eight papers were identified that involved 118 species. The countries where more dendroecological studies have been carried out are United States of America, Spain, and Argentina. The management practices that are mostly benefited from the use of dendroecological methods are the estimation of the rotation-time in the planning phase; thinning in the execution phase; and growth and performance assessments, as well as the impacts of pests and diseases on growth in the monitoring phase. Forest management research is mainly based on the monitoring of permanent sampling plots and can be supported by tree-ring analysis. Dendrochronological methods provide relevant information on forest structure, phytosanitary status, tree-species growth rates and their temporal variation. Dendroecological research experiences carried out in other countries can also be applied in Mexico, including the study of broadleaved species. The use of dendroecology as forest management tool would help to optimize timber production and promote the conservation of forest ecosystems in Mexico.