Subcanopy gaps in temperate and tropical forests

Abstract

We present a model of gaps in the vertical structure of forest vegetation. The traditional model of a forest gap assumes the existence of a 'hole' in the uppermost canopy layer, often extending down to near the ground. The present model extends the concept to gaps at any level, including those in lower layers below an intact canopy or subcanopy. It assumes that gaps at any level represent spaces with unused resources, especially favourable for plant growth and survival. Evidence from temperate and tropical forests indicates that gaps in the subcanopy and understorey layers below intact canopies are common, and that plants have higher growth rates in them than in non-gap sites. We also extend this model to below-ground gaps in the root zone.