The ecology and biodiversity value of sycamore (acer pseudoplatanus L) with particular reference to Great Britain

Sycamore (acer pseudoplatanus L.) offers considerable promise for multiple-objective forestry being fast-growing, yielding a valuable timber, being a deciduous broadleaved species and tolerant of a wide range of climatic and soil conditions. Sycamore is naturalised in Great Britain, with a poor reputation amongst conservationists due to the perception that it supports only low levels of biodiversity, that it is not native and that it is invasive in ancient semi-natural woodlands. Yes evidence shows that sycamore can support a high diversity of certain taxa, such as lichens. Furthermore the aphids that feed on sycamore provide a resource for many animals, directly as prey and indirectly through their honeydew. In certain cases sycamore invades semi-natural woodland, with disturbance favouring its colonisation. However, there is evidence in some cases that its dominance in the canopy will alternate with other species or that some sort of equilibrium will develop between it and other tree species.