Within forest growth modeling it is customary to employ LOGIT models to predict individual tree mortality. In this paper we use Learning Vector Quantization and the self-organizing map as diierent formalisms to predict individual tree mortality. The data set for this study came from permanent sample plots in uneven-aged Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst) stands in Austria. After parameterizin...

The correlation between the peroxidase activity, chlorophyll and soluble protein content as well as the changes in vascular bundle structure in Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst.) needles affected by cement dust were studied. In spite of the absence of any yellowing symptoms, a significantly lower chlorophyll con­ tent was measured in spruce needles affected by cement dust. Observed sieve cel...

We describe the application of neural networks adhering to the unsupervised learning paradigm to individual tree mortality prediction within forest growth modeling. The data set used for this study originates from permanent sample plots in uneven-aged Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst) stands in Austria. In addition we use the same data set and param-eterise a LOGIT model which represents the...

After mechanical wounding, callus tissue and tangential rows of traumatic resin ducts (TRDs) are formed in many conifer species. This reaction can be used to date past events of geomorphic processes such as rockfall, debris flow and snow avalanches. However, only few points are known about the tangential spread or the timing of callus tissue and TRD formation after wounding. We analyzed 19 Lari...

Tree water deficit estimated by measuring water-related changes in stem radius (DeltaW) was compared with tree water deficit estimated from the output of a simple, physiologically reasonable model (DeltaWE), with soil water potential (Psisoil) and atmospheric vapor pressure deficit (VPD) as inputs. Values of DeltaW were determined by monitoring stem radius changes with dendrometers and detrendi...

Size, age, and spatial structures were studied in a mixed, multilayered forest located in the Upper Susa Valley in Piedmont, Italy, using complete stem mapping, dendrochronology, and spatial analysis on a 1-ha permanent plot. All trees with a diameter >4 cm at 50 cm height (991) and stumps (322) were mapped, measured, and cored. The 639 cross-dated samples were used to reconstruct the disturban...

Pathogenic wood decay fungi such as species of are some the most serious forest pathogens in Europe, causing rot tree boles and loss growth, with estimated economic losses eight hundred million euros per year. In conifers low resinous heartwood , these commonly confined to thus external infection signs on bark or foliage trees normally absent. Consequently, determining extent disease pres...

When conifers such as Picea abies Karst. (Norway spruce) are attacked by insects or pathogens, they often respond by producing increased quantities of terpenoid oleoresin. This response can be mimicked in young P. abies seedlings by treatment with methyl jasmonate (MJ). In this study, we determined the effects of MJ on terpenoids and other chemical defenses of mature P. abies, and investigated ...