MODELING THE MOSAIC CYCLE OF A MIDDLE EUROPEAN BEECH FOREST

A stochastic model is introduced which provides the temporal and spatial pattern of a Middle European beech forest (Fagus sylvatica). Starting from a cyclic succession which is known from field observations the effect of solar radiation on beech trees is modelled in a simple manner. The computer simulation shows the formation of spatial patterns. These consist of a mosaic of patches each containing trees of one species and one age class only. The cyclic succession occurs in every patch, but the cycles are desynchronized. The results of the model show that the stability of this ecosystem depends on the spatial and temporal scale under consideration. The reaction of the system to disturbances is investigated. The results of this model can be generalized to other forests.