Mineral deposition on riparian tree bark: influence of species, height, fluvial position and operational considerations

Abstract

Mineral particle deposition on tree bark is a largely overlooked yet ecologically and operationally relevant process in riparian zones. This study investigates mineral accumulation on the bark of six tree species across five Alpine River systems in Northwestern Italy, focusing on the influence of bark structure, sampling height, position relative to the watercourse and longitudinal river sections. Standardized bark sampling was conducted at two heights (0.1 and 0.5 m), and mineral load was quantified after incineration. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in mineral deposition among species, with Robinia pseudoacacia and Populus nigra exhibiting the highest loads, due to rough and fissured bark. Deposition was consistently greater at 0.1 m compared to 0.5 m and was significantly higher on riverbank trees than in floodplain areas. A clear downstream increase in mineral accumulation was observed, corresponding to reduced flow velocities and enhanced sedimentation in lower watercourse reaches. These findings highlight the role of biological and geomorphological factors in determining mineral retention on bark and suggest potential implications for riparian forest management, particularly regarding tool wear and maintenance in harvesting and chipping operations.

Keywords

Riparian forest / Bark mineral deposition / Riparian vegetation / Riparian maintenance

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