Role of environmental filtering and seed source availability in natural regeneration processes following large-scale disturbances in mountain forests

Abstract The relative importance of environmental factors and species pool in natural regeneration processes is still intensively disputed. Is filtering especially important for with higher requirements temperature soil fertility? the seed source limitation pronounced among tree lower dispersal abilities? Trees, seedlings saplings measurements were conducted 600 plots 0.05 ha distributed a regular grid Tatra Mountains (elevation range 817–1797 m a.s.l.). Boosted regression trees used to analyse relationships between numbers young trees, acting as filters potential availability. most factor affecting distribution was elevation; bedrock type second Acer pseudoplatanus , while solar radiation Sorbus aucuparia . relationship presence mature abundance ones strong Fagus sylvatica moderately A. pseudoplatanus, weak Picea abies, Abies alba S. role shaping varies strongly species, availability very large-seeded trees.