Comparison of the influence of some stand structuralparameters on black pine seedling density and growth

There have been difficulties with the natural regeneration of Anatolian black pine (Pinus nigra Arn. subsp. nigra var. caramanica) forests. Thus, effects of varying forest stand structural parameters on the successful regeneration of black pine forests should be well defined. The influences of basal area (GYA) (m2/ha), stand stocking percent and light transmittance through canopy (GIM) (%) on natural regeneration of black pine has not been well understood. In this graduate research, we examined the impacts of GYA, stand stocking and GIM on seedling density and seedling growth of black pine forests in northern Turkey. In addition, we aimed to see which stand structural parameter has more effect on black pine seedlings. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Random Effects Models in the study. Statistically significant relationships between the chosen stand parameters and seedling density and seedling growth of black pine were found (p<0,05). Moreover, it was found that GIM has more effect than other parameters on black pine seedling density and growth. Initial data would suggest that varying stand structural parameters should be complementary to the commonly used parameter, canopy closure, during natural regeneration of black pine. KEYWORDS: Light, natural regeneration, stand basal area, stand stocking June 2020, Page, 49 Science Code: 1205