Unveiling the Ecological Niche: Long-Term Dynamics of Abandoned vs. Forested Landscapes and the Path to Species-Specific Forest Restoration

This study investigates the long-term dynamics of forest expansion in abandoned and reforested landscapes, focusing on the ecological requirements of dominant forest species. Over a 79-year period (1945–2024), forest cover increased from 59.36–92.13% in Rhodope Mountain Range National Park-RMRNP, driven by the colonization of non-forested areas, particularly grasslands. The study examined expansion patterns of different Forest Types (FT), with key factors influencing colonization identified through bioclimatic and environmental models. Species such as Quercus spp., Fagus sylvatica , and Pinus sylvestris exhibited clear preferences for specific temperature ranges and elevation. The presence of parental forest stands and proximity to waterways also significantly influenced species distribution. Notably, Quercus species showed a positive correlation with increasing temperatures (BIO11) and low elevations (200–800 m. asl), while Picea abies expanded in higher altitudes and away from waterways, highlighting species sensitivity in waterlogged conditions. Specific species, such as Betula pendula and Ostrya carpinifolia , exhibited distinct ecological preferences for certain environmental conditions, with varying responses to ecological factors. Landscape metrics indicated a reduction in fragmentation and an increase in forest continuity, suggesting successful forest expansion. These findings underscore the importance of ecological niches in shaping forest recovery and offer insights into sustainable forest management practices.