Attributes of forest diversity in the yunmeng mountain national forest park in Beijing, China

Abstract

The Yunmeng Mountain National Forest Park is close to Beijing city and is ecologically important for its citizens. Forty-two quadrats of 10 m × 10 m were established along an altitudinal gradient within the forest. Species composition and environmental variables were measured and recorded in each quadrat. TWINSPAN (Two-Way Indicator Species Analysis) and CCA (Canonical Correspondence Analysis) were used to analyze the relationships between forest types and environmental factors, and species diversity indices were used to analyze the pattern of species diversity in this park. The results showed that there were seven forest communities (formations); most of which were secondary natural forests, along with some plantations. Each forest type had its own characteristic composition, structure, function, and environment. The variation in forest communities was most significantly correlated with elevation and slope position but was also related to slope, aspect, soil depth, and litter depth. Species richness and diversity increased significantly along altitudinal and slope position gradients. The highest diversity appeared near the mountain summit. Elevation and slope position were key factors influencing forest distribution and species diversity. Effective management measures should be considered in this park.