Thermophilous woodland fringe of base-rich soils

In the transitional zone between the open landscape and forests, habitats can be found that are characterized by a distinct species composition. Generally, two formations can be distinguished: one determined by shrubs, called mantle, and one – closer to the open landscape – built up by (tall) herbs and grasses, called fringe. Thus, fringe communities appear as a narrow belt along forests, but they also occur along scrublands and other formations. Even in the open landscape, e.g. along cliffs. In comparison with the generally rather species poor mantle communities, fringe communities are often harboring a large set of – colorful – flowers. This especially applies to the baserich soils, to which the heliophilous and thermophilous communities of Habitat type E5.2a are confined. Another prerequisite is a limited amount of nutrients; otherwise, the vegetation transforms into nitrophilous tall forb communities. The diagnostic species are adapted to the half-shadow conditions under the branches of trees and scrubs, but the small contact zone between the forest and the open landscape gives also room to the occurrence of species of these neighbouring formations. And this partly explains the species richness of the habitat.

In the subatlantic parts of Europe, fringes generally border mesophilous forests of the class Carpino-Fagetea sylvaticae. In the zone of thermophilous deciduous forest (Quercetea pubescentis), with relatively open canopy, most of the fringe species can also be found inside the forest communities. Fringe communities have developed through millennia of human activities. From a landscape ecological point of view, they may protect forests against unwanted effects from the open landscape, like the input of nutrients from agricultural land. Fringes provide important habitats for various animal groups, including birds and insects. Thermophile woodland fringes of baserich soils can be found in large parts of Europe. In Southern and Southeastern Europe, they also can be found in mountainous areas, but in the Northwestern parts of Europe, they are restricted to lowlands. Transitional zones are generally in need of well-balanced human activities, as changes in the neighboring formations (forest on the one side, open landscape on the other side) directly affects the quality of the fringe communities.

Indicators of good quality:

• Species richness
• Periodical cutting or grazing, protecting encroachment of the habitat by shrubs and trees
• Absence of woody species
• Absence of invasive species
• Low input of nutrients

Synthesis of Red List assessment

Confidence in the assessment

Pressures and threats