Mixed plantations of Alnus formosana and Pinus massoniana improve ecosystem multifunctionality than monoculture plantations

Trees Forests and People 2026 Open access

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Authors: Luocan Zhou, Linjuan Huang, Jingzhong SHI, Yandi Qin, Lihui Deng, Shiyao Liang, Qile Tang, Guoqiang Tang, Wenhui Shen, Zhangqiang Tan, Weichao Teng
DOI: 10.1016/j.tfp.2026.101171
Cited by: 2
References: 55

Abstract

Long-term management of Pinus massoniana monoculture faces significant challenges, including low productivity, nutrient depletion, and weakened ecological functions. Alnus formosana , a native nitrogen-fixing species in southern China, can increase soil fertility and accelerates nutrient cycling. However, the impact of its mixed cultivation with P. massoniana on ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) remains unclear. This study assessed tree growth, soil characteristics, enzyme activity, and EMF in monocultures and mixed forests at 1:2, 1:1, and 2:1 ratios (APP, AP, and AAP). Results showed that mixed-species treatment significantly increased tree growth index (TGI) of A. formosana but decreased that of P. massoniana ( P

Fields of Study & Subjects

Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics Seedling growth and survival studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Trees Forests and People
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
24
Pages
101171–101171
Publication date
24 January 2026
Language
EN