TREE AND SHRUB SPECIES 

In Latvian forests, over 50 native tree and shrub species grow but the main role in the formation the tree stands play only 9 species.

Main differences in species of forest type and forest stand in the regions of the country:

• Oligotrophic forest type distribution is higher in the Coastal Lowland (28.1%) and near the largest rivers - the Venta and Gauja. Pine forests cover the largest areas. Nutrient poor forests are less distributed in the West Zemgale- 0.8% and Vidzeme Upland - 2.6%.

• More eutrophic forests occur in upland areas - the Vidzeme Upland - 50.4%, East Kursa - 46.2%, but especially in the West Zemgale - 73.9%. In uplands, spruce forests Oxalidosa and Aegopodiosa, but in the West Zemgale ash and grey alder forests Aegopodiosa are common.

• Dry forests are more associated with uplands where the ground water is in the deepest soil layers. Forests on wet mineral soils are more widespread in the Coastal Lowland, but forests on peaty soils in the East Latvia near the Aiviekste River.