The spatial association between beech seedlings and crowns of other canopy tree species in a beech forest of northern Japan

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  • ブナ林内におけるブナ稚樹の空間分布と他樹種の樹冠との関係
  • ブナリンナイ ニ オケル ブナ チジュ ノ クウカン ブンプ ト タジュシュ ノ ジュカン トノ カンケイ

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Abstract

Regeneration process of Siebold's beech (Fagus crenata) has been considered to follow gap dynamics theory. However, field observation at a beech forest in southern Hokkaido revealed that the seedling banks of beech trees were never associated with the canopy gaps. Instead, they were likely to be established under canopies of other tree species, especially those of Magnolia obovata which are often found in natural beech stands. Leaf expansion of Magnolia trees begin approximately one month later than that of beech trees. Consequently, in early spring, the canopy layer had gap-like openings which corresponded to the crown shape of Magnolia trees. These temporary openings provide several advantages for beech seedlings to establish. Under these openings, late canopy closure in spring may scarcely suppress current shoot growth of beech seedlings which unfold their leaves earlier in spring. Moreover, the other gap-dependent species requiring constant sunlight through the growing season (i.e. pioneer species) hardly invade the habitats under phenological gaps. Thus, beech seedlings can dominate almost exclusively.

Journal

  • Vegetation Science

    Vegetation Science 24 (2), 113-121, 2007

    The Society of Vegetation Science

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