Overall biodiversity and the spatial patterns of atlantic oakwoods

Abstract

Summary Maintenance of biodiversity in these complex woodlands, that have been historically much altered, is based on actions promoting conservation of existing values but which may also prepare them for future changes, such as a decline in the dominance of oak in the canopy. Site condition monitoring of the 9000 ha of Atlantic oakwoods already designated indicates damage from excessive browsing, invading species and lack of deadwood. These conditions and potential hazards from climate change are being addressed by attempting to expand and interconnect existing woodlands to reduce fragmentation and increase possibilities for species to migrate.