Dendrometric, phytopathological and entomological characteristics of a wych elm tree on mt. Goč

Valuable broadleaves, including also wych elms, belong to the category of rare tree species in the growing stock of Serbia. The conservation of Serbian forest diversity and the genetic potential of these tree species require a multidisciplinary study. In this respect, we undertook a dendrometric and health analysis of a wych elm tree on Goč, as it is a rarity by its dimensions, not only from the local, but also from the regional aspects. The tree is 266 years old, its diameter at breast height is 2.09 m, height 42.1 m, and volume (d>3 cm) 56.35 m3. Current height increment culminated early, at the age of 20-30 years, attaining 0.5 m, and current diameter increment at the age of 40-50 years when its value was 14.4 mm. The above data point to a high productivity of this elm tree and to favourable site and stand conditions of its development. On the other hand, its current diameter increment and height over the last period (1.7 mm, and 0.03 m respectively) indicate that the tree was in the phase of physiological dying. 10 species of fungi were identified on the tree (facultative parasites or saprophytes), the most significant being Armillaria mellea and Aurantioporus fissilis, which caused central heartwood decay. Other fungi developed saprophytically in the dead part of the stem or in dead branches. Eight insect species (secondary and tertiary pests) were identified, including the two most dangerous elm beetles (Scolytus scolytus and S. multistriatus). Together with the species Saperda punctata and Cerambyx scopolii, they accelerated the dying process of twigs and branches, as well as of the whole tree. Ambrosia beetle Xyleborus monographus infested the stem and the large dead branches and caused minor technical damage in wood. The species Dorcus paralelopipedus, Oryctes nasicornis and Valgus hemipterus supported the faster progress of wood-rotting fungi and thus contributed to physiological weakening and shortened the life cycle of the study elm tree.