Abstract
In order to estimate the most effect stage and process on population growth and effective conserve the rare endangered plant Davidia involucrata, we analyzed the dynamics and the contributions of life-history components on population dynamics based on Lefkovitch matrix model and sensitivity analysis. The life cycle of Davidia involucrata was divided into six stages (seed, seedling, juvenile, immature, early adult and late adult) based on the species characteristics and published literature data, the survival rates in each life-history stage were simulated using a static life table, and the fecundity of each stage was determined according to sample information. The results showed that the structure of the observed population was not ideal, and the numbers of seedlings and coppice shoots was similar. The population growth rate was influenced largely by individual growth process, and asexual reproduction made a larger contribution to population growth than sexual reproduction. However, sexual reproduction was more important than asexual reproduction, because most asexual reproducing individuals (the coppice shoots) were derived mainly from human destruction (e.g. felling trees). The most important stage was stage V (late adult), associated with seed production and germination. Therefore, conservation of Davidia involucrata populations should focus on stage V and sexual reproduction, in order to improve the seed production and germination rate, and to promote population stability and development.
Highlights
Davidia involucrata is a deciduous broad-leaved tree species belonging to the monotypic family Davidiaceae [1]
Vegetative individuals of Davidia involucrata are of two types, those from seeds and those from vegetative shoots
The dynamics of the Davidia involucrata population is related to the fates of both sexually reproductive individuals and coppice shoots
Summary
Davidia involucrata is a deciduous broad-leaved tree species belonging to the monotypic family Davidiaceae [1]. As a Tertiary relic, Davidia involucrata is called a “botanic living fossil” and is rated as a first-class protected plant in China [9]. As their natural habitats were destoryed continually by human activities, the number of natural populations and the distribution area of this ancient plant have been decreasing remarkably. The survival of this rare species Davidia involucrata is facing severe challenges [10,11]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
