In order to set the concentrations of elements and their distribution in the biomass fractions in the forest into
perspective, a comparison was using beech forests along a fertility gradient in the same region (Table 4). The
fertility can be described by the degree of base saturation of the soil. The Linnebjer forest had a similar degree
(around 20%) as surrounding Lamium-type beech forests (Nihlgård & Lindgren 1977). Mercurialis-type beech
forests have a high soil base saturation and Deschampsia-type a low soil base saturation. The Deschampsia-type
forests also have a lower carbon content than nutrient-richer forests, while K, Ca and Mg are related to availabi-