8. Degeneration and Regression Processes in Carpinus betulus Forests of Trentino (North Italy)

The goal of this note is to illustrate the processes of degeneration and regression underway in the forests of Galio laevigati-Carpinetum betuli in the hills of Gocciadoro, Central Alps, North Italy. In 1969, the woods of Galio-Carpinetum betuli still had good structural and floristic characteristics. Today, over 45 years later, the situation has changed and the association has undergone phenomena of degeneration and regression. In particular, today we observe the following: disappearance of almost half of the species, impoverishment of the species composition, reduction of the degree of cover of some species, increase in the degree of cover of some species (nitrophylous species), appearance of Neophytes (Robinia pseudacacia and Ailanthus altissima). From the phytocoenotic point of view, the consequence has been the disappearance of the Galio laevigati-Carpinetum betuli association, which today remains only in a small area of little more than 100 m².