秦岭皇冠暖温性落叶阔叶林优势树种的径级结构和数量特征

Aims Four dominant tree species in Huangguan of the Qinling Mountains, China, were chosen for a detailed examination of their diameter structures and quantitative characteristics. This investigation sought to elucidate the survival status of these populations, offering essential insights for their conservation and management. Methods We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the population characteristics of these four dominant tree species by mapping their diameter structure, constructing static life tables, and fitting survival and mortality curves. We employed a time sequence analysis model to predict the population's future development. Important findings The analysis of diameter distribution revealed that the number of individuals for Quercus aliena var. acutiserrata, Pinus tabuliformis and Pinus armandii populations decreased with increasing diameter at breast height (DBH). These populations exhibited abundant juvenile stages, indicating robust natural regeneration ability. In contrast, the diameter structure of the Castanea mollissima population followed a “normal” distribution, with fewer juvenile individuals and a stable structure in later life stages. For this population, the survival rate of individuals with small diameter is crucial for renewal and development. It is inferred that seed retention in the Castanea mollissima population is mainly affected by animal feeding and human activities, subsequently impacting population renewal. Therefore, a deeper understanding of seed retention in Castanea mollissima population is necessary. Monitoring the growth of individuals with small diameter is essential to improve their survival rate and overall quality. The survival curves of Quercus aliena var. acutiserrata, Pinus tabuliformis and Pinus armandii primarily conformed to the Deevey-II type, indicating a predominance of juvenile individuals but also a higher mortality rate among them. The distinct survival conditions among these three dominant populations reflected differences in their survivorship abilities. Overall, juvenile individuals predominated in the entire population, but the growth and survival of individuals were influenced by biotic and abiotic factors in their surroundings. This study provides a comprehensive portrayal of the population characteristics of dominant tree species in Qinling Mountains, offering valuable data for further investigations into population development effects.