The research investigates the impact of forest recreational function and tree species
composition on the yield of fruiting bodies of three economically important
ectomycorrhizal fungi summer cep (Boletus reticulatus), porcini (Boletus edulis), and
chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius). The study was conducted in the southern Pohorje
region, where 42 plots were established in forest stands with varying levels of
recreational use and different dominant tree species (beech (Fagus sylvatica), spruce
(Picea abies), Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris)). During the 2024 growing season, fruiting
bodies were systematically recorded. Mass and value yields were then calculated based
on current market prices. The influence of precipitation and the lunar cycle was also
analyzed. The average yield was 29.0 kg/ha, with an estimated value of 469 €/ha.
Although no statistically significant effect of recreation was found, trends indicated
lower yields of Boletus species in highly visited areas, while, on the contrary,
chanterelles were more abundant there. Tree species composition also affected fungi
yields. Porcini thrived in spruce stands, while summer cep and chanterelle performed
better in beech and Scots pine stands, though differences were not statistically
significant. Precipitation significantly influenced chanterelle yield, and a full moon had a positive effect on porcini yield. The research contributes to a better understanding of how social and environmental factors affect the fruiting of the studied mycorrhizal fungi and highlights their economic potential as non-wood forest products within sustainable forest management.
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