Structure and dynamics in seasonal dry evergreen forest in northeastern Thailand

Abstract

Abstract. Studies of tropical forest dynamics have often been based on one large‐scale permanent plot, representative of a given forest type. Broad classifications of tropical forest types are expected to include a wide range of stand structures, dynamics patterns and species compositions – a range which cannot be represented in a single plot. To demonstrate this problem two 1‐ha permanent plots, dominated by Hopea ferrea and Shorea henryana (both Dipterocarpaceae), respectively, were established in 1987 in seasonal dry evergreen forest at the Sakaerat Environmental Research Station in northeastern Thailand. In 1997 the plots were remeasured as to patterns of recruitment, mortality and growth. The Hopea plot was relatively static with low mortality, recruitment and growth. The Shorea plot was very dynamic with high rates of growth, mortality and recruitment. If the current trends continue, the plots are likely to further diverge. Even if the study of a large forest plot provides a good insight into tropical forest dynamics, it is necessary to consider the entire local pattern of variation.