Abstract

Structure and dynamics of Abies koreana community in Mt. Gaya were studied to provide the basic data for conservation of Abies koreana community, an endemic species in Korea. A. koreana community of this study site was composed of tree layer (4~7m), subtree layer (2~4m), shrub layer (1~2m), and herb layer (below 1m). The heights of tree and subtree layers were low. Floristic composition showed that this study site was subalpine and dry site. In frequency distribution diagram of diameter classes of major species consisting of A. koreana community, those of both A. koreana and other species showed reverse J-shaped types. From these results, it was estimated that A. koreana community of this site might be maintained continuously as a stable climax state like present state. In the spatal distribution diagram of major species, saplings of A. koreana were established under the canopy of A. koreana and Pinus koraiensis and under the dead tree of A. koreana. From these results, it was known that A. koreana saplings were recruited before the community was disturbed and regeneration was accomplished by advance regeneration pattern, in which these saplings established before occurrence of disturbance fill with open site originated from death of mature tree. Growth of annual rings was variable among individuals, it was estimated that such variation was originated in that growth of each individual relates to microclimatic conditions rather than macroclimatic ones. Ecological longevity of A. koreana in this study site estimated by disturbance types and age of dead trees was about 120 years.

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