Structure and dynamics of the upper montane rain forests of Sri Lanka

Abstract

The most frequent plant families are Lauraceae (Cinnamomum, Litsea, Actinodaphne) and Myrtaceae (Syzygium, Eugenia, Rhodomyrtus), followed by Clusiaceae (Calophyllum, Garcinia), Theaceae (Gordonia, Ternstroemia), Elaeocarpaceae and Symplocaceae. The content of aluminium in trees of the upper montane rain forest is ten times higher than in other forest types. Canopy-dieback has been observed on the western slopes, where heavy winds increase the effect of dry spells. Frost damage sometimes occurs along the edge of the forest and in open gaps. Regeneration seems to be poor, as the trees grow slowly and the seedlings are suppressed by the dense undergrowth of Strobilanthes. -from Authors