The Right Tree in the Right Place in Ecosystem Restoration

Abstract:

The restoration of degraded ecosystems mainly includes the rehabilitation of degraded habitats and the restoration of biological communities, which is aligns with the forestry principle of ‘the right tree in the right place’. However, in afforestation and restoration of degraded ecosystems, inadequate consideration of this principle often results pool survival rates, low functionality, and sluggish pace of recovery. To ensure that the right tree is planted in the right place, a comprehensive approach to tree species selection is imperative. Beyond the fundamental guideline of utilizing native species, it is essential to account for the genetic diversity of tree species, the succession stage of tree species, plant functional groups, and plant functional traits at multiple scales. For suitable land, both the land use and land degradation level should be considered simultaneously. Based on the afforestation objectives, the land can be categorized into barren land for afforestation, commercial forest plantations or garden lands for transformation. Additionally, considering the level of ecosystem degradation, the land can be classified into extremely degraded, moderately degraded, and mildly degraded land. Under climate change, the criteria for the right tree in the right place may shift. If ecological restoration before climate change emphasizes restoring the historical state of ecosystems, the ecological restoration under climate change will undergo a certain degree of adaption. This adaptation includes the creation of adaptive habitats and the assistance of species migration or breeding that are more tolerance to climate change. Both of these strategies are crucial for effective restoration. Properly established vegetation through thoughtful tree planting can mitigate the impacts of climate change, conserve biodiversity, rehabilitate degraded ecosystems, and provide multiple ecosystem services. Ultimately, this approach supports the broader goal of sustainable development, and fostering a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

Key words:Degraded ecosystems;Afforestation;Tool species;Habitat restoration;Climate change