Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

Search Results (95)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = Eucalyptus urophylla

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
29 pages, 2717 KiB  
Article
SNP-Based Genetic Analysis of Dimensional Stability and Wood Density in Eucalyptus pellita F.Muell. and Hybrids
by Oluwatosin Esther Falade, Benoit Belleville, Antanas Spokevicius, Barbara Ozarska, Gerd Bossinger, Listya Mustika Dewi, Umar Ibrahim and Bala Thumma
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1301; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081301 - 9 Aug 2025
Viewed by 337
Abstract
Dimensional stability is a key trait for structural wood applications such as flooring, yet its genetic basis in Eucalyptus pellita F.Muell. and its hybrids remain poorly understood. Addressing this gap is essential for improving processing efficiency and product quality through targeted breeding. This [...] Read more.
Dimensional stability is a key trait for structural wood applications such as flooring, yet its genetic basis in Eucalyptus pellita F.Muell. and its hybrids remain poorly understood. Addressing this gap is essential for improving processing efficiency and product quality through targeted breeding. This study assessed variation in shrinkage and density, their relationships with growth and chemical traits, and associated genetic markers. Wood samples from E. pellita, E. pellita × E. urophylla S.T.Blake, and E. pellita × E. brassiana S.T.Blake were collected from two plantation sites in northern Australia. Radial and tangential shrinkage and density were measured alongside growth and chemical traits. SNP genotyping was conducted to identify markers linked to these physical properties. Significant differences were observed among hybrid types. E. pellita × E. urophylla recorded the lowest tangential unit shrinkage (0.06%), while E. pellita × E. brassiana had the highest basic density (651 kg/m3). Shrinkage and density showed moderate to strong correlations with growth and chemical traits. Several SNPs were associated with these properties; all were located in the intergenic region near Eucgr.A00211. Among these, only one SNP exceeded the −log10(p) significance threshold. These results provide early genetic insights and potential candidate markers for improving wood quality in Eucalyptus breeding programs. This exploratory study, constrained by a small sample size (n = 58), identifies putative SNPs for future validation in broader, multi-environment trials. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 2786 KiB  
Article
Xylem Functional Anatomy of Pure-Species and Interspecific Hybrid Clones of Eucalyptus Differing in Drought Resistance
by José Gándara, Matías Nión, Silvia Ross, Jaime González-Tálice, Paolo Tabeira and María Elena Fernández
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1267; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081267 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 318
Abstract
Climate extremes threaten the resilience of Eucalyptus plantations, yet hybridization with drought-tolerant species may enhance stress tolerance. This study analyzed xylem anatomical and functional drought responses in commercial Eucalyptus grandis (GG) clones and hybrids: E. grandis × camaldulensis (GC), E. grandis × tereticornis [...] Read more.
Climate extremes threaten the resilience of Eucalyptus plantations, yet hybridization with drought-tolerant species may enhance stress tolerance. This study analyzed xylem anatomical and functional drought responses in commercial Eucalyptus grandis (GG) clones and hybrids: E. grandis × camaldulensis (GC), E. grandis × tereticornis (GT), and E. grandis × urophylla (GU1, GU2). We evaluated vessel traits (water transport), fibers (mechanical support), and wood density (D) in stems and branches. Theoretical stem hydraulic conductivity (kStheo), vessel lumen fraction (F), vessel composition (S), and associations with previous hydraulic and growth data were assessed. While general drought responses occurred, GC had the most distinct xylem profile. This may explain it having the highest performance in different irrigation conditions. Red gum hybrids (GC, GT) maintained kStheo under drought, with stable F and a narrower vessel size, especially in branches. Conversely, GG and GU2 reduced F and S; and stem kStheo declined for a similar F in these clones, indicating vascular reconfiguration aligning the stem with the branch xylem. Almost all clones increased D under drought in any organ, with the highest increase in red gum hybrids. These results reveal diverse anatomical adjustments to drought among clones, partially explaining their growth responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 5647 KiB  
Article
A New Species of Aprostocetus (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), a Parasitoid from China of the Invasive Gall Wasp Ophelimus bipolaris (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) on Eucalyptus
by Jing-Hui Su, Yuan-Hao Li, Jin Hu, Yan Qin, Jun Li, Zoya Yefremova and Xia-Lin Zheng
Insects 2025, 16(8), 755; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16080755 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 511
Abstract
A new species of Aprostocetus (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), Aprostocetus bipolaris sp. nov., is recognized to be fortuitously present on a population of the invasive Eucalyptus (E. grandis × E. urophylla) gall wasp Ophelimus bipolaris Chen & Yao, in Guangxi, China. To classify [...] Read more.
A new species of Aprostocetus (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), Aprostocetus bipolaris sp. nov., is recognized to be fortuitously present on a population of the invasive Eucalyptus (E. grandis × E. urophylla) gall wasp Ophelimus bipolaris Chen & Yao, in Guangxi, China. To classify this species, an integrated approach of morphological characteristics and molecular data was applied. The morphology of the new species is described and illustrated, and an identification key for female and male adults is also presented. Regarding phylogenetic analyses, the position of A. bipolaris sp. nov. within the Aprostocetus group of genera was reaffirmed based on 28S and COI gene sequences. All these lines of evidence indicate that A. bipolaris sp. nov. is a new species. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 10720 KiB  
Article
Responses of Water Use Strategies to Seasonal Drought Stress Differed Among Eucalyptus urophylla S.T.Blake × E. grandis Plantations Along with Stand Ages
by Zhichao Wang, Yuxing Xu, Wankuan Zhu, Runxia Huang, Apeng Du, Haoyang Cao and Wenhua Xiang
Forests 2025, 16(6), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16060962 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 441
Abstract
Water use strategies reflect the ability of plants to adapt to drought caused by climate change. However, how these strategies change with stand development and seasonal drought is not fully understood. This study used stable isotope techniques (δD, δ18O, and δ [...] Read more.
Water use strategies reflect the ability of plants to adapt to drought caused by climate change. However, how these strategies change with stand development and seasonal drought is not fully understood. This study used stable isotope techniques (δD, δ18O, and δ13C) combined with the MixSIAR model to quantify the seasonal changes in water use sources and water use efficiency (WUE) of Eucalyptus urophylla S.T.Blake × E. grandis (E. urophylla × E. grandis) at four stand ages (2-, 4-, 9- and 14-year-old) and to identify their influencing factors. Our results showed that the young (2-year-old) and middle-aged (4-year-old) stands primarily relied on shallow soil water throughout the growing season due to the limitations of a shallow root system. In contrast, the mature (9-year-old) and overmature (14-year-old) stands, influenced by the synergistic effects of larger and deeper root systems and relative extractable water (REW), exhibited more flexibility in water use, mainly relying on shallow soil water in wet months, but shifting to using middle and deep soil layer water in dry months, and quickly returning to mainly using shallow soil water in the episodic wet month of the dry season. The WUE of E. urophylla × E. grandis was affected by the combined effect of air temperature (T), vapor pressure deficit (VPD), and REW. WUE was consistent across the stand ages in the wet season but decreased significantly with stand age in the dry season. This suggests that mature and overmature stands depend more on shifting their water source, while young and middle-aged stands rely more on enhanced WUE to cope with seasonal drought stress, resulting in young and middle-aged stands being more vulnerable to drought stress. These findings offer valuable insights for managing water resources in eucalyptus plantations, particularly as drought frequency and intensity continue to rise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Forest Carbon, Water Use and Growth Under Climate Change)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2846 KiB  
Article
Full-Tree Biomass, Root Carbon Stock, and Nutrient Use Efficiency Across Ages in Eucalyptus Stands Under Seedling and Coppice Systems
by Gardenia Gonçalves de Oliveira, Túlio Barroso Queiroz, Bronson P. Bullock, José Carlos Coelho, Rodrigo Eiji Hakamada and Iraê Amaral Guerrini
Plants 2025, 14(9), 1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14091382 - 3 May 2025
Viewed by 648
Abstract
The establishment of forest stands after harvest requires an understanding of biomass and nutrient dynamics to support management decisions and ensure system productivity and sustainability. This study evaluated biomass and nutrient accumulation in Eucalyptus urophylla aged 2 to 5 years under planting and [...] Read more.
The establishment of forest stands after harvest requires an understanding of biomass and nutrient dynamics to support management decisions and ensure system productivity and sustainability. This study evaluated biomass and nutrient accumulation in Eucalyptus urophylla aged 2 to 5 years under planting and coppicing systems. A total of 1152 trees were assessed across eight treatments, combining four ages and two management systems. Aboveground biomass was estimated using 10 trees per treatment, while root biomass was assessed in 8 trees at ages 3 and 5. Nutrient concentrations were determined using three intermediate-diameter class trees per treatment. Biomass data were analyzed using Tukey’s test (5%), and biomass expansion factors (BEF) and the root-to-shoot ratio (R) were used to estimate root carbon. Total biomass was higher in the coppicing system (153 Mg ha−1) compared to the planting system (119 Mg ha−1), with greater root accumulation and carbon sequestration (≈17.2 t C ha−1). The biological use coefficient (BUC) increased with age, except for Mn. Planted stands showed higher BUC for N and P, while coppiced stands were more efficient in Mg use. These results reinforce the need for distinct fertilization strategies for each system, aiming at productivity, nutrient efficiency, and carbon stock enhancement. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 4454 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Water Use Patterns of Eucalyptus with Different Ages in Southern Subtropical China
by Haijun Zuo, Qing Xu, Deqiang Gao, Wenbin Xu, Ke Diao and Beibei Zhang
Forests 2025, 16(4), 708; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16040708 - 21 Apr 2025
Viewed by 473
Abstract
Seasonal droughts induced by climate change pose a significant threat to the normal growth patterns of forests in the subtropical regions of southern China. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the response of tree water use patterns to seasonal drought to maintain tree [...] Read more.
Seasonal droughts induced by climate change pose a significant threat to the normal growth patterns of forests in the subtropical regions of southern China. Therefore, it is crucial to explore the response of tree water use patterns to seasonal drought to maintain tree physiological activities. However, it remains unknown whether changes in dry and wet seasons have an impact on the water use patterns of trees of different ages. In this study, a two-year experiment was conducted in Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis (hereinafter referred to as Eucalyptus) plantations at three ages (4, 7, and 17 years). Specifically, the water use patterns of Eucalyptus in dry and wet seasons were calculated using hydrogen stable isotopes (including the isotopes in xylem water and 0–150 cm soil layers) coupled with MixSIAR. The results showed that there were notable variations in the proportions of water absorption from different soil layers by Eucalyptus during dry and wet seasons. During the dry season (April 2024), 4-year-old and 7-year-old Eucalyptus primarily utilized water from the 40–90 cm soil layer, while 17-year-old Eucalyptus mainly relied on deep soil water at depths of 60–150 cm, with a utilization ratio of 50.9%. During the wet season (August 2023), the depth of water uptake by Eucalyptus of different ages significantly shifted towards shallow layers, and the trees primarily utilized surface soil water from the 0–60 cm layer, with utilization ratios of 59.9%, 64.8%, and 61.6% for 4-year-old, 7-year-old, and 17-year-old Eucalyptus, respectively. The water sources of Eucalyptus during dry and wet seasons were variable, which allowed Eucalyptus to cope with seasonal drought stress. The differences in the water uptake strategies of Eucalyptus between dry and wet seasons can be attributed to their long-term adaptation to the environment. Our research revealed the differences in the water utilization of Eucalyptus with various ages between dry and wet seasons in subtropical China, providing new insights for a better understanding of the adaptive mechanisms of subtropical forests in response to alterations in water conditions caused by climate change. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 6596 KiB  
Article
Construction of an Editing System for Forest Tree Genomes Based on an Efficient Visual Screening Marker in Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis
by Min Su, Xinlin Wu, Zechen Wang, Limei Li and Lejun Ouyang
Horticulturae 2025, 11(4), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11040406 - 11 Apr 2025
Viewed by 554
Abstract
Herein, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs)/CRISPRs-associated protein 9 (Cas9) technology for genome editing was used to develop an efficient gene editing system for Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis and generate a new Eucalyptus germplasm with reduced lignin content in the pulp for [...] Read more.
Herein, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs)/CRISPRs-associated protein 9 (Cas9) technology for genome editing was used to develop an efficient gene editing system for Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis and generate a new Eucalyptus germplasm with reduced lignin content in the pulp for environmental sustainability in papermaking. By targeting the cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H) gene in E. urophylla × E. grandis, the recombinant plasmid pHEE401E-35S-RUBY-EuC4H was constructed through homologous recombination. This plasmid was then transformed into E. urophylla × E. grandis callus tissue. Using the RUBY gene as a marker, positive transformants were screened based on the callus tissue phenotype. Subsequent PCR and sequencing confirmed the successful creation of mutants with a significantly edited EuC4H gene. This method offers a valuable framework and guidance for genetically improving and establishing an efficient gene editing system in Eucalyptus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 10109 KiB  
Article
Using Infrared Thermography to Assess Musculoskeletal Overload in the Hands of Harvester Operators
by Alysson Braun Martins, Marcos Leal Brioschi, Carla Krulikowski Rodrigues and Eduardo da Silva Lopes
Forests 2025, 16(3), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16030429 - 27 Feb 2025
Viewed by 601
Abstract
Mechanization in timber harvesting has improved the comfort and safety of operator workstations. However, there is an imminent ergonomic risk in relation to the repetition of movements, which can cause musculoskeletal injuries. The aim of this study was to apply infrared thermography to [...] Read more.
Mechanization in timber harvesting has improved the comfort and safety of operator workstations. However, there is an imminent ergonomic risk in relation to the repetition of movements, which can cause musculoskeletal injuries. The aim of this study was to apply infrared thermography to identify musculoskeletal overload in the hand region of harvester operators. This study was conducted on wood harvesting of homogeneous Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis stands using a forestry harvester tractor. Thermographic images were taken of seven operators at the beginning and end of the working day during six days of the shift. The maximum, average, and minimum temperatures were measured in 14 hand regions of interest (ROI), verifying the existence of a difference between the beginning and the end of work (p-value < 5%) by using the Mann–Whitney test. The operators presented hyperradiant temperature variation in the hand region after work, with a variation above 2.5 °C, indicating a high degree of abnormality. There was greater temperature variation in the right hand (3.7 °C) due to the greater concentration of commands on the machine’s right joystick. Infrared thermography has proven to be an important tool for functional imaging diagnosis, contributing to the reduction in risks of developing Repetitive Strain Injury/Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorder (RSI-WMSD). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Addressing Forest Ergonomics Issues: Laborers and Working Conditions)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 6301 KiB  
Article
Stand Age Affects Biomass Allocation and Allometric Models for Biomass Estimation: A Case Study of Two Eucalypts Hybrids
by Runxia Huang, Wankuan Zhu, Apeng Du, Yuxing Xu and Zhichao Wang
Forests 2025, 16(2), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16020193 - 21 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1060
Abstract
We studied the effects of stand age on the allocation of biomass and allometric relationships among component biomass in five stands ages (1, 3, 5, 7, and 8 years old) of two eucalypts hybrids, including Eucalyptus urophylla × E. grandis and E. urophylla [...] Read more.
We studied the effects of stand age on the allocation of biomass and allometric relationships among component biomass in five stands ages (1, 3, 5, 7, and 8 years old) of two eucalypts hybrids, including Eucalyptus urophylla × E. grandis and E. urophylla × E. tereticornis, in the Leizhou Peninsula, China. The stem, bark, branch, leaf, and root biomass from 60 destructively harvested trees were quantified. Allometric models were applied to examine the relationship between the tree component biomass and predictor variable (diameter at breast height, D, and height, H). Stand age was introduced into the allometric models to explore the effect of stand age on biomass estimation. The results showed the following: (1) Stand age significantly affected the distribution of biomass in each component. The proportion of stem biomass to total tree biomass increased with stand age, the proportions of bark, branch, and leaf biomass to total tree biomass decreased with stand age, and the proportion of root biomass to total tree biomass first decreased and then increased with stand age. (2) There were close allometric relationships between biomass (i.e., the components biomass, aboveground biomass, and total biomass per tree) and diameter at breast height (D), height (H), the product of diameter at breast height and tree height (DH), and the product of the square of the diameter at breast height and tree height (D2H). The allometric relationship between biomass and measurement parameters (D, H, DH, D2H) could be applied to the biomass assessment of eucalypts plantation. (3) Allometric equations that included stand age as a complementary variable significantly improved the fit and enhanced the accuracy of biomass estimates. The optimal independent variable for the biomass prediction model varied according to each organ. These results indicate that stand age has an important influence on biomass allocation. Allometric equations considering stand age could improve the accuracy of carbon sequestration estimates in plantations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Estimation and Monitoring of Forest Biomass and Fuel Load Components)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 5849 KiB  
Article
Growth, Productivity, and Nutrient Return of a Mixed Plantation of Fast-Growing Eucalyptus Hybrid and Acacia auriculiformis Trees in Thailand
by Jetsada Wongprom, Narinthorn Jumwong, Pattama Sangvisitpirom, Sapit Diloksumpun and La-ongdao Thaopimai
Forests 2025, 16(1), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16010182 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1724
Abstract
Mixed-species plantations involving Eucalyptus and Acacia trees are an effective alternative for managing sustainable plantations. In this study, we evaluated the growth, productivity, nutrient return, and soil properties of a mixed Eucalyptus hybrid (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. × E. urophylla S.T. Blake; E) and [...] Read more.
Mixed-species plantations involving Eucalyptus and Acacia trees are an effective alternative for managing sustainable plantations. In this study, we evaluated the growth, productivity, nutrient return, and soil properties of a mixed Eucalyptus hybrid (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. × E. urophylla S.T. Blake; E) and Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Benth. plantation (A) and Eucalyptus hybrid and A. auriculiformis plantations. The mixed Eucalyptus hybrid and A. auriculiformis plantation included three ratios at E33:A67, E50:A50, and E67:A33, while the Eucalyptus (E100) and A. auriculiformis (A100) plantations were established on degraded lands in the Had Wanakorn Forestry Research and Student Training Station, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, Thailand. Three replications within a plot size of 20 × 20 m2 were designed to plant Eucalyptus hybrid and A. auriculiformis seedlings at a spacing of 2 × 3 m2. The diameters at breast height (DBH) and height (H) of the Eucalyptus hybrid and A. auriculiformis were measured and monitored after planting for five years. The aboveground biomass of the five-year-old mixed and monoculture plantations was then estimated. Litterfall production and nutrient return from the mixed and monoculture plantations were measured for three years. In addition, soil samples at depths of 0–5, 5–10, and 10–20 cm were collected to analyze the soil’s chemical properties. Differences in growth, aboveground biomass, litterfall production, nutrient return, and soil properties were analyzed and tested using Tukey’s HSD. The results indicated that both the DBH and H of the Eucalyptus hybrid in the mixed and monoculture plantations were not significantly different (p > 0.05). Similarly, the DBH and H of A. auriculiformis in each treatment were also not significantly different (p > 0.05). However, the DBH and H of the Eucalyptus hybrid were higher than those of A. auriculiformis. The aboveground biomass for the mixed plantation ratios E50:A50, E100, E67:A33, and E33:A67 was not significantly different, while the stem biomass was the highest in E100. Litterfall production was influenced by the proportion of the Eucalyptus hybrid relative to A. auriculiformis, but the monoculture A100 plantation had the highest litter production. The nitrogen return estimated for the mixed plantation was between A100 and E100. Similarly, the total nitrogen in the topsoil (0–5 cm) of the mixed plantation was higher than that in the monoculture E100 plantation. These results indicate that mixing A. auriculiformis with Eucalyptus can improve soil nutrients and nutrient cycling and increase nutrient returns, suggesting that mixed plantations are an effective option for sustainable plantation management and can mitigate the negative environmental impacts of Eucalyptus monocultures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Stand and Biomass Management)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3148 KiB  
Article
Changes in Soil Chemical Attributes in an Agrosilvopastoral System Six Years After Thinning of Eucalyptus
by Wander Luis Barbosa Borges, Marcelo Andreotti, Luan Carlos Pianta da Cruz, Douglas Yuri Osaki de Oliveira, João Francisco Borges and Laryssa de Castro Silva
Plants 2024, 13(21), 3050; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13213050 - 31 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 817
Abstract
The changes in soil chemical attributes in agrosilvopastoral systems after the thinning of trees are unclear. To address this gap, this study evaluated the effects of the thinning of eucalyptus hybrid Urograndis H-13 (Eucalyptus urophylla S. T. Blake × E. grandis W. [...] Read more.
The changes in soil chemical attributes in agrosilvopastoral systems after the thinning of trees are unclear. To address this gap, this study evaluated the effects of the thinning of eucalyptus hybrid Urograndis H-13 (Eucalyptus urophylla S. T. Blake × E. grandis W. Hill ex Maiden) on soil chemical fertility in an agrosilvopastoral system in an Arenic Hapludalf in Brazil. The experimental design was a randomized block with a 3 × 4 factorial design comprising three treatments (thinning of 0%, 50%, or 100% of the eucalyptus trees) and four sampling positions relative to the eucalyptus line (0, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 m). Six years after eucalyptus thinning, soil acidification was observed in the 0% and 50% eucalyptus thinning treatments, especially at 0 and 2 m from the eucalyptus line. Decreases in soil pH were associated with increases in the total acidity pH 7.0 (H+ + Al3+) and Al3+ content and decreases in the K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ contents and base saturation over the soil profile (0–1.0 m). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop and Soil Management for Sustainable Agriculture)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3979 KiB  
Article
Accumulation of Glomalin-Related Soil Protein Regulated by Plantation Types and Vertical Distribution of Soil Characteristics in Southern China
by Miaolan Wu, Shaochun Zhang, Xiaojuan Gu, Zhihang He, Yue Liu and Qifeng Mo
Forests 2024, 15(8), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15081479 - 22 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1293
Abstract
The glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) is an important component of soil organic carbon (SOC), which plays an important role in maintaining soil structural stability, soil carbon (C), and nitrogen (N) fixation. However, little is known about the GRSP content in soil and its [...] Read more.
The glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) is an important component of soil organic carbon (SOC), which plays an important role in maintaining soil structural stability, soil carbon (C), and nitrogen (N) fixation. However, little is known about the GRSP content in soil and its contribution to soil nutrients in plantations of different tree species. In this study, we determined the soil physicochemical characteristics and GRSP contents in different soil layers of four kinds of plantations, including Acacia mangium (AM), Pinus caribaea (PC), Eucalyptus urophylla (EU), and Magnoliaceae glanca (MG), to address how the plantation types affected the GRSP in different layers of soil in southern China. The results showed that with an increase in soil depth, the GRSP content decreased linearly, and the contribution rate of GRSP to SOC and total nitrogen (TN) in deep soil was 1.08–1.18 times that in surface soil. The tree species significantly affected the vertical distribution of GRSP in soil. Among the four plantations, the conifer species PC had the highest level of GRSP, while the N-fixing species AM had the lowest level. However, SOC, soil capillary porosity (CP), TN, soil water content (SWC), and total phosphorus (TP) were important factors regulating soil GRSP content. Additionally, the regulation effects of soil properties on GRSP were various in surface and deep soil among different plantations. In order to improve soil quality and C sequestration potential, conifer species can be planted appropriately, or conifer species and N-fixing species can be mixed to increase soil nutrient content and enhance soil structure and function in afforestation of southern China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biogeochemical Cycles in Forests)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4201 KiB  
Article
Species and Stand Management Options for Wood Production from Small Grower Plantations in Central Vietnam
by Christopher E. Harwood, Le Xuan Toan, Pham Xuan Dinh and E. K. Sadanandan Nambiar
Forests 2024, 15(8), 1465; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15081465 - 21 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1558
Abstract
Acacia hybrid (Acacia mangium Willd. × A. auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth.) dominates plantation wood production in central Vietnam. Dependence on a single species may increase biological risks. The potential of eucalypt as an alternative was examined by comparing the growth and [...] Read more.
Acacia hybrid (Acacia mangium Willd. × A. auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth.) dominates plantation wood production in central Vietnam. Dependence on a single species may increase biological risks. The potential of eucalypt as an alternative was examined by comparing the growth and survival of acacia hybrid and eucalypt hybrid (Eucalyptus urophylla S.T. Blake × E. pellita F. Muell.) clones in Quang Tri province at three planting densities (1333, 1667 and 2222 trees ha−1). The experiment was planted on an eroded shallow soil common in the region. At age 5 years, survival of acacia (74%) was higher than that of eucalypt (67%), a consequence of high mortality from wind damage for one eucalypt clone. Eucalypt was taller by about 2 m, but stem diameters of acacia and eucalypt were very similar. For both taxa, diameter decreased significantly as planting density increased. Across planting densities, mean standing volume was 107 and 108 m3 ha−1 for acacia and eucalyptus, respectively. Linear regressions of stocking at 5 years on volume accounted for over half of the variance in acacia and eucalypt plot volumes, demonstrating the strong effect of stocking on yield. There were similarly strong effects of stocking on stem diameter. Acacia hybrid plantations of nearby small growers had stockings at age 5 years that averaged over 2500 stems ha−1. Growers planted at higher densities and allowed their trees to multi-stem. Their standing volumes at age 5 years ranged from 83 to 102 m3 ha−1. Understanding how to reduce tree mortality would assist growers to choose planting densities and stand management that optimise growth, log diameter classes and net returns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics and Molecular Biology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 4014 KiB  
Article
Soil Microbial Communities Responses to Multiple Generations’ Successive Planting of Eucalyptus Trees
by Chenyang Jiang, Yaqin He, Yuhong Cui, Yahui Lan, Han Zhang and Shaoming Ye
Forests 2024, 15(7), 1166; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15071166 - 4 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1703
Abstract
The impacts of the successive planting of Eucalyptus on soil microbial communities and their underlying mechanisms remain unknown, limiting our understanding of its long-term effects on soil ecosystems. This study examined the 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm soil layers, investigating changes in soil [...] Read more.
The impacts of the successive planting of Eucalyptus on soil microbial communities and their underlying mechanisms remain unknown, limiting our understanding of its long-term effects on soil ecosystems. This study examined the 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm soil layers, investigating changes in soil bacterial and fungal communities after multiple plantings of Eucalyptus grandis × urophylla using high-throughput sequencing. Furthermore, we used the structural equation model (SEM) to analyze the relationships among soil active organic carbon (SAOC), enzyme activity, and microbial diversity. The study showed that the multigeneration successive planting of Eucalyptus significantly increased the soil bulk density and decreased the soil physicochemical properties and soil enzyme activities (p < 0.05). The soil’s dominant microbial compositions were unchanged in the two soil horizons, but the relative abundances of some dominant phyla (e.g., Crenarchaeota, Basidiomycota and Actinobacteriota) were affected by successive planting. The variability in the microbial community structure was influenced primarily by the soil water content (SWC) and organic carbon (p < 0.05). The microbial community diversity in the 20–40 cm horizon was significantly affected by multigeneration succession (p < 0.05). SWC was the core factor driving microbial community diversity. SEM results showed that multigeneration successive planting obviously limits SAOC fractions and enzyme activities, negatively affecting soil microbial diversity. Our study highlights the impact of the multigeneration successive planting of Eucalyptus on soil microbial community structure and suggests adjustments in forestry practices to mitigate soil degradation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Soil)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2660 KiB  
Article
Influence of Pressing Temperatures on Physical–Mechanical Properties of Wood Particleboards Made with Urea-Formaldehyde Adhesive Containing Al2O3 and CuO Nanoparticles
by Luana Cristal Lirya Silva, Felipe Oliveira Lima, Victor Almeida De Araujo, Herisson Ferreira Dos Santos, Francisco Antonio Rocco Lahr, André Luis Christoforo, Higor Rogério Favarim and Cristiane Inácio de Campos
Polymers 2024, 16(12), 1652; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16121652 - 11 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1329
Abstract
Particleboards have gained attention in the global market. Understanding their physical–mechanical behavior in the current technological context is essential due to adhesive polymerization, which depends on variables such as pressing time and temperature. Today, the use of nanoparticles has become a plausible option [...] Read more.
Particleboards have gained attention in the global market. Understanding their physical–mechanical behavior in the current technological context is essential due to adhesive polymerization, which depends on variables such as pressing time and temperature. Today, the use of nanoparticles has become a plausible option for improving the properties of polymers used in wood-based composites. This study evaluates the influences of the addition of non-commercial 0.5% aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and aluminum oxide copper (CuO) nanoparticles using a greener route with a lower environmental impact obtaining a urea-formaldehyde (UF)-based polymeric adhesive to manufacture particle composites of Eucalyptus urophylla var. grandis wood. Regarding characterizations, the resin properties analyzed were viscosity, gel time, and pH, as well as panel properties, including density, moisture content, thickness swelling, modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture, and thermal conductivity. The results were compared with scientific publications and standards. The addition of nanoparticles interfered with viscosity, and all treatments indicated a basic pH. It was not possible to determine the gel time after 10 min. Nanoparticles added to the polymers in the internal layer did not cause an improvement in the swelling properties in terms of thickness, with no significant statistical difference for density and moisture content. The increase from 150 °C to 180 °C may have caused an improvement in all physical–mechanical properties, indicating that the higher temperature positively influenced the polymerization of the formaldehyde-based adhesive. Therefore, the additions of both nanoparticles (0.5% in each condition) led to a limitation in the material influence with respect to physical–mechanical performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Wood Based Composites)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop