A database on truffles diffusion on forestation plot: the contribution to biodiversity by forest ecosystem

Abstract

The “Nocella” forest farm (Ficulle Umbria Italy) presents database collection of spontaneous truffle production following the forestation of fields previously cultivated with traditional crops. Critical points and constraints to reach the assessment of the symbiotic plants and the truffle quarries are explained. Some of the first results of the Multivariate Analysis MVA analysis on the database and soil analysis are reported and the map of truffle quarries and “cultivar” and forest plants is presented. The non-wood forest products, as truffles are, have agro- forestry theoretical and operational consequences for the conservation of biodiversity. The data popularization of detailed data of truffle production is not popular, even it is a scientific task to fulfill a complete understanding of the ecosystem. The truffle’s “underground” economy and the anthropological convictions are hostile surroundings. The importance of improving cooperation of sociology and forest sciences for forestry management needs more efforts. Silence due to an underground economy does not help the safeguard of truffle heritage, which, though a renewable resource, is tied to a complex and vulnerable forest ecosystem. Silence nevertheless enhances the abuses by illegal hunters who are used to prey upon the forest. We can confirm that the area of study is an ecosystem that changes and grows constantly with a collection of truffles compatible and respectful of biodiversity. Multivariate analysis (MVA) of the data would suggest good reasons for more investigation on soil and partly confirm the mythical mind of the truffle hunters.