Spatial pattern of living trees among individual phases of developmental cycle of old- growth forest NNR Hron ecky grúň

Submitted paper presents results acquired by analysis of spatial structure of mixed species old-growth forest in NNR Hron ecky grúň. Data were collected on two permanent research plots, 50×250m each. For determining of developmental stages the classification according Korpe 1995 was used. Concerning the course of developmental cycle significant specifications occurred. Typical stage of growth was not detected on the plot, dieback of ash is considered as a trigger mechanism for creation of breakdown stage, but a gradual productive domination of beech and ash in lower and middle layer slow down the process of disintegration of upper layer. Abovementioned process will result in developmental shift towards to optimal phase typical by bypassing of growth phase. However, it is necessary to mention that cited mechanism is sustainable during influence of small scale disturbances only.