EN
The role of the rodents in forest regeneration includes both negative (seed and seedlings consumption) and positive (seed dispersal) aspects. The objective of this paper is to review the knowledge of this dual effect of the rodents on forest regeneration after disturbance, particularly in temperate managed forest stands. Many studies have demonstrated that consumption of seeds and seedlings by rodents can substantially inhibit regeneration of forest stands after disturbance. Small mammal predation on oak, pine and European beech seeds and seedlings contributes to reduced forest regeneration after tree harvest and natural disturbances such as fires. On the other hand, some rodent species may promote seed dispersal towards deforested areas. Moreover, they frequently prefer nesting and caching of acorns near structures providing shelter. Such structures are abundant in disturbed areas and appear to promote higher survival of cached seeds. Furthermore, there are certain techniques of seed and seedling protection against small mammals, e.g., planting seeds in the soil, using polyethylene tubes to raise seedlings, or providing alternative food for rodents. The positive impact of the rodents can be enhanced and negative minimized through proper management, such as providing appropriate microhabitats for seed caching, or maintaining continuity of canopy cover/forest stands.