Pinus pinaster (maritime pine).

Abstract P. pinaster plantations have long been cultivated in the Mediterranean basin region (both Europe and North Africa), particularly to stabilise sand dunes, coastal areas and on low fertility soils; the tree has also been a major source of resin as well as general purpose timber. Its major disadvantages are its high susceptibility to fire, and the low quality of the resin compared to that from other pine species. Major research is needed into thinning procedures, especially in the Mediterranean region.