Tree sapling sampling in a secondary subtropical forest invaded by Ligustrum lucidum subject to experimental management, Tucumán, Argentina, 2021-2023

Data on saplings was collected during a field experiment that evaluated the management of secondary forests impacted by the invasion of Ligustrum lucidum.

The experiment was conducted by establishing six permanent plots, each measuring 240m x 140m (3.36 hectares). The plots were into three pairs, with one plot being assigned as a control scenario (no actions taken), and the other as a treatment scenario (L. lucidum control and native tree plantation). Before implementing each treatment, there were 288 quadrats, each measuring 2m x 2m, marked with fixed stakes at each corner. Each plot contained 48 quadrats, allocating 12 to each of the four transects within each plot.

Every six months, saplings in fixed quadrats were identified, measured, and tagged along transects within permanent forest plots. Saplings in quadrats that were >25 cm in height and >5 cm in diameter at the base were identified. Field guides and local taxonomists helped identify the saplings mainly at the species level. Additionally, the number of vines, ferns, and shrubs were characterized at each quadrat and sampling date and their height was measured.

This dataset is included in the following collections

Optimising the long term management of invasive species affecting biodiversity, carbon storage, and the rural economy in South America using adaptive management