Ecology of Mediterranean Forests

The scientific objective of the multidisciplinary research project of URFM is to understand and predict the dynamics, functioning and evolution of Mediterranean forests, taking into account disturbance regimes and management. This project adopts an approach that considers the ecophysiological, demographic and genetic processes of forest ecosystems, as well as the specific processes of disturbances (fires, insect epidemics) and their associated risks. To integrate these processes and deliver realistic predictions, URFM creates and uses models based on observation, experimentation and digital simulation, at spatial scales ranging from the forest stand to landscape and region. The applied aim of this research project is to produce knowledge for assessing forest trajectories and solutions for their adaptation and resilience to risks induced by climate change and changing disturbance regimes.