Number and height of unbrowsed saplings are more appropriate than the proportion of browsed saplings for predicting silvicultural regeneration success

摘要: The browsing level of oak (Quercus petraea and Quercus robur) fir (Abies alba) provided only a rough estimate the expected regeneration success. Thus, it cannot be recommended as standard measurement to predict forest development, unless number saplings height those are considered. Browsing by large herbivores may affect success with an impact that lasts for decades. Whether tree species can used in forestry measure assess whether target values (for instance success) highly selected species, such (Mattuschka) Liebl., robur (L.)) alba (Mill.)), will reached is unclear need specification. In this study, 985 sampling plots (10 m2) Southern Germany (Baden-Wurttemberg) containing browsed unbrowsed fir-saplings were analysed. Both considered not sapling density but also different classes (≤ 20 cm; 21–50 cm; 51–130 cm) calculated. use proxy was statistically partly justified. For relationship between became even weaker new indicator variable which considers two rather than one class exceeding 50 cm (51–80 cm 81–130 cm). According these results, and/or predictor damage, considered. efforts mitigate conflicts foresters hunters, is needed addresses successful establishment sufficient trees despite browsing, alone.