Comparative Analysis of Old-Growth Stands Janj and Lom Using Vegetation Indices

Abstract

Old-growth forests represent a very valuable field for research of natural processes. The application of remote sensing was carried out on two old-growth forests in the northwestern part of the Republic of Srpska. The sample plots from OG Janj show relatively higher mean values (NDVI, SAVI and EVI) compared to OG Lom, with the exception of the VARI. Karstified terrain and poor delay of snags in the top-layer of stand due to the impact of weather disasters and the tendency of OG Janj toward the terminal phase of old-growth forest development are potential reasons for the higher mean value of the VARI index.