Core theories of structure-based forest management

Structure-based forest management (SBFM) adheres to the principle of structure determining function, advocating for the randomness of tree distribution patterns, the diversity of stand spatial structures, and the multi-functionality of forest ecosystem services. It has emerged as a distinctive theory and methodology for achieving sustainable forest management. By analyzing the research progress of SBFM, this paper systematically summarizes the theoretical framework of SBFM. It highlights unique insights in interpreting and quantifying forest stand structures, analyzing stand structural diversity, elucidating mechanisms of stand stability maintenance, and revealing structure effects on productivity formation. These efforts aim to accelerate the transition development of SBFM from “pilot demonstration” to “full-scale implementation”. This paper proposes seven core theories of SBFM: (1) interpretation of stand spatial structure; (2) telescope method for stand spatial structure parameters; (3) stand spatial structure diversity; (4) random body-stability hypothesis; (5) structure-competition effects of tree growth; (6) π-value rule for optimal stand quality; (7) initial stand density for effective space utilization. To enhance the widespread application of structure-based forest management theories and techniques, it would be highly beneficial to advance research on the classification of forest developmental stages based on spatial utilization and the underlying mechanisms of structural diversity