Conifers: From Seed to Sustainable Stands

Abstract

Conifers have an important role in the world’s forested landscapes, holding pivotal sway over global forest areas. Their significance extends beyond mere presence, as conifers boast a remarkable array of stand structures, silvicultural systems, and diverse yields, encompassing a spectrum of valuable products and services. Understanding these features of conifers, from the nuanced characterization of their species to the analysis of their stands, forests, and production, supports the management systems that govern their existence and contributes to preserving the age-old traditions associated with their utilization. This book is a collection of contributions on conifer species from diverse perspectives, each delving into the multifaceted realm of conifer research. From species-specific investigations to comprehensive studies on characterization, modeling, management, genetics, ethnobotany, and the artistry of wooden construction, the chapters within this volume traverse a broad spectrum of knowledge. This volume includes six chapters: Chapter 1: “Effect of Climate Change on Conifer Plant Species, Juniperus procera, and Podocarpus falcatus, in the Case of Ethiopia: Critical Review Using Time Series Data” Chapter 2: “Importance of Araucariaceae for Plantation Development in Papua New Guinea” Chapter 3: “Exploring the Biometric Traits and Potential of Radiata Pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) as a Non-Native Species for Sustainable Forest Systems in Portugal” Chapter 4: “Influence of Silvicultural Operations on the Growth and Wood Density Properties of Mediterranean Pines” Chapter 5: “Quantifying: Genetic Traits in Pinus wallichiana Seedlings in the Northwestern Himalayan” Chapter 6: “Ethnobotany of Conifers in the Philippines” The interdisciplinary nature of the contributions underscores the intricate web of relationships between conifers and their ecological contexts, emphasizing the interplay between biological, ecological, and anthropogenic factors. Editing this book has proven to be a gratifying experience, and we anticipate that it will serve as a valuable reference. We encourage researchers, academicians, and enthusiasts to delve into the evolving discourse surrounding conifers, exploring their pivotal contributions to the world’s forests.