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Nematodes and their relationship to forest dynamics: II. Abundance and morphometric variability of Mononchida related to changes in humus forms

Abstract:

Mononchida nematode populations were analysed in parallel with stages of natural forest dynamics in a nature reserve within the state forest of Fontainebleau (La Tillaie, France). Changes in the relative abundance of species and morphometric variability of Clarkus papillatus provided additional information about the differentiation of sites on acid mull humus. Especially in clearings, the role of the herbaceous layer and dead fallen wood was demonstrated by the improvement of the humus form. Furthermore, although not typically representative of successional stages of forest development. Mononchida indicate the existence of changes of environmental conditions. These changes relate especially to a gradual differentiation between two groups of sites, one represented by the bare ground in clearing (located within the mature stage), growth and mature stages, and the other associated with the senescent stage and the clearing located near this site. Differences illustrated by the two types of clearing indicate the important role of windthrows in the forest regeneration process.