8 - Changes in Ecosystem Structure and Function during Stand Development

Abstract

This chapter discusses the structure and function of forest ecosystems. Carbon and nutrient cycles are a consequence of the changes in forest structure that occur as stands progress through the various stages and states that together constitute succession. Succession is a continuous process and does not really consist of distinct stages, but it is useful to identify major stages in stand development and their general attributes. Later in the chapter, two important forest succession theories such as primary succession and secondary succession are discussed. Primary succession refers to the development of forest communities in areas that have not previously utilised vegetation. Secondary forest succession refers to the reforestation of an area following destruction of the existing stand. On a global scale, various stages of succession help to improve the capacity to predict change in global carbon balance. This chapter also highlights the species composition and the structural and functional characteristics during succession. Little empirical data are used to test theories on the relationship between species diversity and succession. The species diversity depends on the number of species that have the suite of ecophysiological characteristics best adapted to the environmental constraints.