Norway spruce (Picea abies L.) is an important tree species with a remarkable natural range throughout Europe and Asia, ranging from the Balkan Peninsula to Siberia in the north and from the French Alps in the west to the Sea of Okhotsk in the east. Wherever it occurs, it is a key component of both natural and managed forests. Norway spruce is the most economically valuable conifer in Europe, producing high-quality timber and wood products. Written by 25 authorities, this book presents a concise and comprehensive review of the biology, ecology, and management of Norway spruce. It integrates classic and contemporary literature (more than 2000 works cited in the text), highlighting basic research and forestry practices in central and eastern Europe. The topics include anatomy and morphology, physiology and nutrition, reproductive biology and genetics, and ecology. In addition, it examines mycorrhiza, diseases and pests as well as silviculture and wood products. In the light of increasing threats to forest health from air pollution, climate change, and insects and disease, it provides an essential information source to those concerned with the ecology, conservation, and management of the species.

A definitive and comprehensive synthesis of the biology and ecology of Norway spruce in a single volume An essential reference for all those concerned with the ecology and management of natural and planted Norway spruce Integrates classic and contemporary literature, including research and forestry practices from Central and Eastern Europe and Russia Fifteen chapters authored by experts cover all aspects of the life history and ecology of the species, ranging from anatomy and morphology to taxonomy and biogeography Richly illustrated and thorough descriptions of biological, physiological, and ecological processes

Inhalt
Paleorecord of Norway Spruce.- Morphology.- Taxonomy.- Geographic Distribution.- The Central European Disjunctions in the Range of Norway Spruce.- Anatomy, Embryology, And Karyology.- Growth and Nutrition.- Reproduction.- Genetics.- Mycorrhiza.- Outline of Ecology.- Tree Health.- Silviculture of Norway Spruce.- Norway Spruce Function in Polluted Environments.- Wood Properties and Uses.