Biodiversity in natural versus managed forest in Denmark

Abstract

During recent millennia the biodiversity patterns of the Danish forests have changed. Many of the rare or threatened species in Denmark are related to habitats characteristic of natural forest ecosystems. By comparing the structure and dynamics of natural and managed forests the following key elements related to biodiversity were identified: woody debris, forest heterogeneity, (successional) continuity and water. To incorporate these elements into modern forest management, a change in attitude and practice is needed. Education and training will be an important part of this move towards sustainability.