Characteristics and intrinsic influencing factors of log humification depend on wood traits in a subalpine forest

Ancient trees are essential elements for high-mountain forest conservation: Linking the longevity of trees to their ecological function

“…Mature stands display diminished branch densities, a higher diameter at breast height (DBH), and greater bark crevices, with singular age-related morphological features ( 4 , 5 ). An important fraction of extremely long-living old trees in mature forests presents several dead modules and may ultimately contribute (as decaying elements) to the carbon sequestration in subalpine poor soils ( 6 ). Old-growth forests, such as those of the Pyrenees, harbor trees with extreme longevities that are unique treeline past vestiges with the potential to be ecologically unique ( 5 , 7 , 8 ).…”