The influence of rotation length on the biomass production and diversity of ground beetles (Carabidae) in poplar short rotation coppice

Results are presented from the evaluation of biomass production and biodiversity in experimental poplar short rotation coppice grown under three different rotations: 1-, 3- and 6-year. The experiment was established in a 9-year-old plantation of poplar clone Max-4 (Populus nigra L. × Populus maximowiczii Henry) in the locality Peklov, Czech Republic. The following tree parameters were measured: tree height, stem diameter and number of stems per tree. Above-ground biomass was harvested in the winter months. Yields of fresh biomass were weighed and survival rates were counted to calculate yields of dry biomass per hectare. Biodiversity was evaluated using a selected group of biological indicators – beetles of the Carabidae family. Individual collections of beetles from pitfall traps were assessed and statistically evaluated. The Carabidae individuals were divided into ubiquitous, adaptable and rare groups according to their habitat requirements. The Simpson biodiversity index, evenness, and level of anthropogenic influence were calculated. Results showed the following: i) length of rotation influences all measured and calculated parameters including biodiversity; ii) the highest average dry biomass yield of 11.7 Mg ha−1 y−1 was found in the 6-year-rotation block; iii) rotation statistically significantly influenced ubiquitous ground beetles, which were 2.30× more abundant in the 6-year rotation than in the 3-year rotation.