Post-Fire Natural Regeneration and Soil Response in Aleppo Pine Forests in a Mediterranean Environment

Wildfires represent a major ecological disturbance in Mediterranean forests, increasingly intensified by climate change and land-use changes. This study investigated post-fire natural regeneration and soil properties in Aleppo pine stands seven years after a high-severity crown fire in southern Italy. The analysis compared two stand types: pure pine and mixed pine stands, differing in fire severity and structural composition. We assessed seedling density, spatial distribution, and dendrometric parameters (height and collar diameter), and evaluated soil parameters (pH, organic matter, and bulk density) to understand their influence on post-fire recovery. Results showed abundant regeneration composed exclusively of Aleppo pine, with significantly higher seedling density in the pure pine stand, where fire severity was greatest. In mixed pine stand, moderate fire severity and interspecific competition reduced regeneration density. The presence of deadwood was found to enhance microclimatic conditions conducive to seedling establishment and the post-fire recovery in Mediterranean pine forests follows a model of self-succession, favouring pre-fire species. Soil analyses revealed higher organic matter content and lower bulk density in the pure stand, which may have supported regeneration. These findings highlight the importance of deadwood retention and passive management strategies in promoting spontaneous forest recovery. Understanding post-fire regeneration patterns and soil conditions can inform adaptive management policies to enhance forest resilience in Mediterranean ecosystems under climate pressure.