Journals Information
Environment and Ecology Research Vol. 13(1), pp. 131 - 139
DOI: 10.13189/eer.2025.130112
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Enhancing Biodiversity Assessment in Forests: Integrating Instrumented Measurements for a Robust Graded Biodiversity Assessment (GBA) Index
Elias Milios , Kyriaki Kitikidou *
Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University, Greece
ABSTRACT
This study proposes a Graded Biodiversity Assessment (GBA) index for evaluating biodiversity in forests based on precise measurements from sample plots. The index incorporates five key parameters: total wood stock (basal area), existence of large living trees, presence of standing dead trees, vertical differentiation (height storey), and species composition. These criteria play varying roles in assessing biodiversity, with wood stock being the most crucial. As an illustration of its use, the GBA index was applied to six plots in the Rhodope mountains, to indicate varying degrees of biodiversity. The index's flexibility allows for customization based on species and stand characteristics. Forest managers can utilize the index to identify areas for biodiversity enhancement through silvicultural treatments. The proposed GBA index offers a comprehensive and accurate approach, providing valuable insights into forest management decisions in the context of climate change. By utilizing instrumented measurements and considering multiple criteria, the index enhances the reliability and understanding of biodiversity within forest stands. Overall, the proposed GBA index offers a robust tool for assessing biodiversity in forests, facilitating informed decision-making for sustainable forest management.
KEYWORDS
Biodiversity Assessment, Forest Ecosystems, Instrumented Measurements, Sample Plots
Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Elias Milios , Kyriaki Kitikidou , "Enhancing Biodiversity Assessment in Forests: Integrating Instrumented Measurements for a Robust Graded Biodiversity Assessment (GBA) Index," Environment and Ecology Research, Vol. 13, No. 1, pp. 131 - 139, 2025. DOI: 10.13189/eer.2025.130112.
(b). APA Format:
Elias Milios , Kyriaki Kitikidou (2025). Enhancing Biodiversity Assessment in Forests: Integrating Instrumented Measurements for a Robust Graded Biodiversity Assessment (GBA) Index. Environment and Ecology Research, 13(1), 131 - 139. DOI: 10.13189/eer.2025.130112.