Silver Fir Decline in Pure and Mixed Stands at Western Edge of Spread in Croatian Dinarides Depends on Some Stand Structure and Climate Factors

Silver fir is one of the most threatened conifer species in Croatia, especially at western edge its spread Croatian Dinarides, where decline trees has resulted significant ecological and economic issues. The aim this study was to determine, over an 18-year monitoring period, relationships silver crown defoliation with climatic factors structural attributes. We further analyzed tree retention time a given class transition dynamics between classes, as well survival/mortality trees. Data on were two different forest types: pure mixed common beech stands. factors, primarily vegetation period air temperature, potential evapotranspiration, dry season water deficit, correlated defoliation. Regarding attributes, stand predominantly smaller trees, increased reduced diameter breast height, diameter, social class, illumination. In stand, greater asymmetry, illumination, stork’s nest crown. classes differed for research sites. Transition only highest (dead trees). At end mortality higher stand. Increased can be expected future, particularly overmature stands under prolonged drought stress. Permanent could ensure high-quality data needed adaptive management that positively influence structure these and, thus, improve their health status.