Dieback of spruce in the Ukrainian Carpathians is changing the forest landscape and encouraging the regeneration of other species

Widespread phenomenon in the Carpathian region

The widespread dieback of European spruce continues in the Carpathian region of Ukraine, contributing to significant changes in the structure and appearance of forest ecosystems. The situation is being monitored by specialists from the Vyzhnytsia National Nature Park, who have presented their latest observations on the condition of spruce forests.

Forest monitoring continues

The research is being conducted in cooperation with specialists from the Ukrainian National University of Forestry, as part of regular forest ecosystem monitoring programs.

To assess changes in the forests, forestry and inventory measurements were carried out both on previously established monitoring plots and on newly selected areas included in the research.

Spruce, one of the dominant species of the Ukrainian Carpathians

European spruce, also known locally as smereka, is one of the most widespread tree species in the Ukrainian Carpathians. The trees can reach heights of between 25 and 40 metres, playing an important role in the structure of mountain forest ecosystems.

The accelerated dieback of this species is nevertheless causing visible changes in the composition and structure of the forests.

Natural regeneration of other species

Researchers’ observations indicate that, in the monitored areas, natural regeneration is occurring primarily through silver fir. To a lesser extent, young specimens of beech and sycamore maple have also been identified.

These changes point to a gradual transformation of forest stands affected by spruce dieback and the emergence of a more diverse forest composition.

Nature contributes to restoring forest balance

Park specialists emphasize that natural processes contribute to the restructuring of ecosystems and the restoration of ecological balance. In areas previously occupied by secondary spruce forests, a new forest structure is beginning to develop, characterized by multiple vegetation layers and trees of different ages.

However, the long-term development of this process remains difficult to predict. The duration of the transformation and the final form these forests will take remain subjects of ongoing research and monitoring.