Bestockung

Bestockung is a German term used to describe the density and composition of living stock in a given habitat. The concept is applied mainly in forestry and in fisheries or aquaculture, and it denotes how well a population or stand is “stocked” for its location and purpose. Etymologically, it derives from the verb bestocken, meaning to stock or stock with individuals, with stock referring to a group of trees, fish, or other organisms.

In forestry, Bestockung refers to the stocking level of a forest stand, i.e., how many trees or the biomass per unit area are present relative to the site’s potential. Foresters use the stocking degree to categorize stands as understocked, normally stocked, or overstocked and to guide silvicultural actions such as thinning, pruning, or replanting. The assessment considers species mix, age structure, spacing, and growth conditions, aiming to optimize yield, stability, and biodiversity while maintaining ecological balance.

In fisheries and aquaculture, Bestockung describes the introduction or presence of fish or other aquatic organisms in a water body. Stocking programs aim to restore depleted populations, support commercial or recreational fishing, or sustain aquaculture production. Key considerations include species and broodstock origin, stocking density, timing, water quality, and potential ecological impacts on native species, disease transmission, and genetic diversity. Sustainable practices, compliance with regulations, and post-stocking monitoring are essential to minimize risks.

See also: stocking density, forest management, fish stocking.