Abstract:
Studies that are unprecedented in scale, detail or approach show that niche partitioning contributes less, and chance events more, than expected to maintaining tree species richness via gap dynamics in tropical and temperate forests, Some tree species are differentially adapted for regeneration in different gap microenvironments. However, the stochastic availability of gaps, and limited recruitment of juveniles, mean that gaps are filled mostly by chance occupants rather than by best adapted species. This chance survival can slow competitive exclusion and maintain tree diversity. Gap dynamics do not explain the latitudinal gradient in tree richness.

KeyWords Plus:
SMALL-SCALE DISTURBANCE, RAIN-FOREST, TROPICAL FOREST, SEEDLING ESTABLISHMENT, SPECIES-RICHNESS, CANOPY GAPS, RECRUITMENT LIMITATION, NEOTROPICAL FOREST, LIGHT GRADIENT, GROWTH

Addresses:
Brokaw N, Manomet Ctr Conservat Sci, POB 1770, Manomet, MA 02345 USA
Manomet Ctr Conservat Sci, Manomet, MA 02345 USA
US Forest Serv, Pacific NW Res Stn, Forestry Sci Lab, Corvallis, OR 97331 USA

Publisher:
ELSEVIER SCIENCE LONDON, 84 THEOBALDS RD, LONDON WC1X 8RR, ENGLAND

IDS Number:
307ZH

ISSN:
0169-5347