Impact of management regimes on the natural values of pine forests

Forestry represents a crucial source of renewable raw materials and bioenergy, but it also plays a key role in active conservation efforts for insects and other threatened organisms associated with dead wood. Older pine forests are a biologically valuable forest type that is declining in a more homogeneous forest landscape dominated by younger, denser spruce stands. To preserve species associated with this sensitive habitat, we need forestry models that take into account the diverse needs of various forest-dwelling species.

Insects have high potential as indicators of biodiversity in these forest environments. However, it is often labor-intensive and challenging to inventory the actual presence and resource requirements of insects. Therefore, we are using new monitoring methods, with traps baited with attractive pheromones (sexual attractants) for significant indicator species.

We are particularly interested in the Tragosoma, which is a crucial indicator species for high natural values, to identify and promote valuable pine habitats at the national level. The larvae of the Tragosoma live in the cavities of old, large pine trees, making the species a good indicator of old-growth pine environments. Using pheromone traps, we can conduct comparable, systematic studies of Tragosoma populations in many locations across the country. This allows us to gain direct knowledge about the most valuable habitats for the species' survival and the management methods and measures that best create suitable environments for their larvae.

Habitats with older pine forests are often scattered and fragmented, which can lead to isolated populations without genetic exchange. Therefore, we will also conduct population genetic studies to determine if habitat fragmentation causes isolation and reduced gene flow between different populations. The project is directly linked to Swedish forestry and conservation efforts by evaluating the effects of current environmental considerations and contributing to effective recommendations for long-term sustainable, balanced pine forestry.