Applied nucleation facilitates tropical forest recovery: Lessons learned from a 15‐year study

Background

This study examines the technique of applied nucleation, which is based on the planting of tree islands, as a means of cost-effective assisted natural regeneration. 

Goals & Methods

The goal of the paper is to review the findings of a 15-year study in Costa Rica, comparing the results of applied nucleation to natural regeneration and tree plantations. The study was replicated in 15 sites and examined the following: planted tree survival and growth, woody vegetation recruitment and structure, seed rain, litterfall, epiphytes, birds, bats and leaf litter arthropods.

Conclusions & Takeaways

The study finds that applied nucleation is equally as efficient as plantation restoration in enhancing the recovery of most floral and faunal groups, vegetation structure and ecosystem functions, as compared to natural regeneration yet is more cost-effective. Additionally, applied nucleation is more effective in seed dispersal and woody recruitment when compared to natural regeneration. Overall, the study demostrates that applied nucleation is a promising strategy to meet restoration goals.