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Species- and trait-based responses of carabids to rotation and closer-to-nature forestry in a temperate forest under changing climate

Růžičková, Jana1; Ódor, Péter2; Magura, Tibor3; Elek, Zoltán4

Published May 22, 2025 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.wdbrv15zv

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May 22, 2025 version files 26.86 KB

Abstract

European temperate forests are managed by various silvicultural practices that can impact ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) in terms of species composition and abundance. However, the responses at the assemblage or community level may not provide sufficient insight into how individual species react to forest management. We examined the species- and trait-based mid-term (2014–2018) responses of the eight most common carabid species in a managed oak-hornbeam forest in Hungary. The studied forestry treatments included preparation cutting, clear-cutting, green tree retention, gap cutting, and undisturbed control plots. Species responses varied across forestry treatments and years, but clear-cutting consistently had a negative impact on multiple species, particularly on Abax parallelepipedus, Aptinus bombarda, and Carabus hortensis. In contrast, the abundance of Carabus coriaceus and Carabus ullrichii declined after an initial burst in the newly established treatments. Functional traits also influenced the responses; forest specialists and spring and autumn breeders were negatively affected by clear-cutting and retention, followed by an overall decline in their abundance. Notwithstanding, habitat generalists and species without a defined breeding season exhibited more stable abundance trends over the years. These declines may be linked to phenological shifts driven by climate change. Spring breeders may have extended their activity period, leading to increased competition with autumn breeders in late summer and autumn when tenerals of spring breeders emerge. Although our study presents mid-term trends, we believe that it provides a further understanding of the responses of carabid species in managed temperate forests.