Species, genes and epigenetics: how dimensions of diversity interact for forest resilience
Smith, Stuart W.; Cavers, Stephen
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2139-9236; Diez, Estrella Luna; Edwards, David; Cottrell, Joan; Kyle, Carol; Nichols, Chris; McKelvey, Holly; Stokes, Victoria; Mitchell, Ruth J..
2025
Species, genes and epigenetics: how dimensions of diversity interact for forest resilience.
Quarterly Journal of Forestry, 119 (4).
241-248.
Abstract/Summary
Diversity is seen as key to building the resilience of UK forests and woodlands to future environmental change. However, diversity has many dimensions encompassing species diversity, within-species genetic diversity and within-individual epigenetic effects. Current forest management strategies and policies have a strong focus on building species diversity but rarely consider how different dimensions of diversity interact and how they can be integrated to enhance resilience. In this article, we explore current knowledge on these dimensions of diversity as well as known and potential interactions. We identify key aspects of forestry for which the multiple dimensions of diversity have an impact, namely: (1) spatial scale, (2) natural colonisation and regeneration, and (3) the nursery environment. We conclude with general points to consider when using multiple dimensions of diversity to increase forest resilience.
| Item Type: | Publication - Article |
|---|---|
| UKCEH and CEH Sections/Science Areas: | Biodiversity and Land Use (2025-) |
| Additional Information: | Full text available via 'Publisher' Related URL link. |
| NORA Subject Terms: | Ecology and Environment |
| Related URLs: | |
| Date made live: | 07 Nov 2025 09:59 +0 (UTC) |
| URI: | https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/540519 |
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