Modelling height and diameter growth of dominant cork oak trees in Spain

Abstract

A plan for sustainable management is urgently required for cork oak forests. This objective is only attainable through growth models that allow us to predict the medium and long term consequences of different silvicultural treatments. In this study, we have developed height and diameter growth models for dominant cork oak trees using stem analysis data from two of the main cork producing areas in Spain. Difference forms of the Lundqvist-Korf, McDill-Amateis and Richards growth functions were tested and fitted using the generalized least squares regression method. The parameters of the equations were linked to stand characteristics in order to improve the models. The difference form of the McDill-Amateis equation was selected for height growth, while the difference form of the Richards equation with n as the free parameter was selected for diameter growth. These models increase our knowledge of the growth of this species and therefore will enable us to improve management planning in cork oak forests.