Population Structure and Spatial Distribution of Tree Species in Lower Montane Forest, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Northern Thailand
3
Issued Date
2022-11-01
Resource Type
ISSN
16865456
eISSN
24082384
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85138578596
Journal Title
Environment and Natural Resources Journal
Volume
20
Issue
6
Start Page
644
End Page
663
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Environment and Natural Resources Journal Vol.20 No.6 (2022) , 644-663
Suggested Citation
Marod D., Duengkae P., Sangkaew S., Racharak P., Suksavate W., Uthairatsamee S., Asanok L., Kamyo T., Thinkampheang S., Heumhuk S., Kachina P., Thongsawi J., Phumpuang W., Paansri P., Nuipakdee W., Nakmuenwai P., Pattanakiat S. Population Structure and Spatial Distribution of Tree Species in Lower Montane Forest, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Northern Thailand. Environment and Natural Resources Journal Vol.20 No.6 (2022) , 644-663. 663. doi:10.32526/ennrj/20/202200139 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/84664
Title
Population Structure and Spatial Distribution of Tree Species in Lower Montane Forest, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Northern Thailand
Author's Affiliation
Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, Mahidol University
National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Thailand
Kasetsart University
Maejo University
Chiang Mai University
The Foundation of Mrigadayavan Palace under the Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Bejaratana
Mae Sa-Kog Ma Biosphere Reserve
National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Thailand
Kasetsart University
Maejo University
Chiang Mai University
The Foundation of Mrigadayavan Palace under the Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Bejaratana
Mae Sa-Kog Ma Biosphere Reserve
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Plant diversity is important for sustainable development, particularly in watershed areas. This study explored tree population and diversity in a lower montane forest (LMF). A 16-ha permanent plot was established in LMF at Huai Kogma sub-watershed, northern Thailand. All trees with a diameter at breast height ≥ 2 cm were tagged, measured, identified, and their coordinates were mapped. The results showed that 220 species in 139 genera from 63 plant families were found. The dominant families based on species numbers and tree density were Fagaceae, Lauraceae, and Theaceae. The most dominant species were Castanopsis acuminatissima, Schima wallichii, Castanopsis armata, and Styrax benzoides. Diameter classes for climax species frequently followed negative exponential distributions, indicating their populations could be maintained into the future. By contrast, pioneer species, such as Macaranga indica, Morus macroura, and Rhus javanica, had discontinuous distribution, and were mostly found in gap areas, indicating successful regeneration may require high light intensity. Spatial distribution patterns based on Morisita’s index showed that most of the selected species had clumped patterns, particularly those in the Fagaceae family, which were predominantly distributed along the mountain ridge. Tree distribution patterns can affect ecological dynamics, thus reinforcing patterns dependent on local interactions such as the abundance of and distance to available resources. Our finding can aid evaluations of forest sustainability, and support the biodiversity conservation plans. In particular, the selection of suitable species for LMF restoration programs where mixed plantings of pioneer and climax species are planned.