Puutumise

Puutumise is a term used in Estonian to describe a specific type of forest, often characterized by its relatively open canopy and the presence of mature trees. It is not a precise scientific classification but rather a descriptive term based on visual and ecological characteristics. These forests typically have a significant amount of light reaching the forest floor, which can support a diverse understory of shrubs and herbaceous plants.

The open nature of puutumise can result from various factors. It might be a natural forest type that has always maintained a less dense canopy, or it could be a forest that has experienced past disturbances such as selective logging or natural events like windthrow that have opened up the tree cover. The age of the trees is also a common consideration; puutumise often implies the presence of older, larger trees that contribute to the open structure.

Ecologically, puutumise can be important habitats for certain species of plants and animals that thrive in less shaded environments. The varied light conditions and the presence of deadwood from older trees can create microhabitats that support a greater biodiversity compared to dense, closed-canopy forests. The term is often used in discussions about forest management and conservation, highlighting areas that possess these particular structural qualities.