Distribution Patterns of Tree Species in the Lanjenchi Lowland Rain Forest

Abstract

Spatial patterns of trees in a lowland rainforest in the 5.88-ha Lanjenchi plot of the southernmost Taiwan were evaluated. Among the 88 species with more than 15 individuals, 87.5% had an aggregated distribution pattern, and 9.1% species were randomly distributed. Rare species tended to be more aggregated than common species at all distance scales. As for different DBH size classes, 35.5% species shifted from highly aggregated patterns to a low level of aggregation or random distribution with an increase in tree size, and 11.3% species had an inverse pattern. When comparing spatial patterns among different habitats within the plot, the aggregation intensity increased along a wind-stress gradient from the sheltered creek to the most exposed slopes. No species displayed a regular pattern in any size class or habitat type. This study revealed that distribution of most species within the Lanjenchi forest was related to habitat heterogeneity. Other factors, such as dispersal limitation, however, may also play a role in determining the distribution patterns.