Relaciones agua-suelo-vegetación.-Directrices de manejo y gestión de sistemas forestales en el Municipio de Murcia

Abstract

ABSTRACT Most forest systems in the municipality of Murcia are old afforestations with Pinus halepensis. In many sites, the unsuitability of the habitat for this species has led to a poor tree development, and to a strong competence for resources that increases environmental stress. We have studied patches of forests protected by the municipality of Murcia (Forest Parks of Majal Blanco, Montepinar and Los Polvorines) and other unprotected patches close to these. The objective was to study their composition, structure and ecological dynamics. The results indicate that these pinewoods are in poor condition with a scarce development for an age of 50 years (DBH between 10 and 16 cm and height between 4-8 m). Also, crown cover seems to be negatively related with chamaephytes cover. This point is relevant given the importance of this group in arid and semi-arid ecosystems. Other relevant aspect was the close relationship between the pine trees and the regeneration of fleshy-fruit scrubland species (Rhamnus, Olea), probably through facilitation processes. The results suggest a series of management and conservation measures, such as decreasing pine density to generate a forested scrubland. This could improve chamaephyte abundance and richness while keeping bird perches to facilitate scrubland regeneration, and at the same time increase water availability and alleviate the competence for soil resources. The potential of these forest fragments to improve biodiversity at the patch and landscape scale can be enhanced through an urban-agri-forest integration that combines site management and land use planning in the municipality.