Abstract
A conceptual model of the regeneration of beech (Fagus crenata) forests in Japan is presented; stand structure, tree population dynamics and characteristics of gap formation are summarized. Beech forest can be recognized as a regeneration complex, and three phases: gap, building and mature, are distinguished through the structure of regenerating populations. The mean return interval is 100–200 yr. Disturbances by typhoons and dwarf bamboos (Sasa) on the forest floor may greatly affect the synchrony of regeneration and, hence, the stability of beech forests in Japan.
Nomenclature follows Ohwi (1972), Flora of Japan, Revised ed., Tokyo.
I thank Prof K. Yoda, Osaka for his advice, and Dr M. Numa-ta, Shukutoku and Mr Rob Peters, Wageningen for their critical reading of the manuscript.
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© 1987 Dr W. Junk Publishers, Dordrecht
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Nakashizuka, T. (1987). Regeneration dynamics of beech forests in Japan. In: Prentice, I.C., van der Maarel, E. (eds) Theory and models in vegetation science. Advances in vegetation science, vol 8. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-4061-1_17
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-4061-1_17
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