Rainfall-runoff Processes in Moso-bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens) Forests : an Observation Result of Overland-flow and Biomat-flow

Abstract

 Overland-flow and biomat-flow have been considered to be important pathways of catchment runoff. However, no studies have presented results of overland-flow and biomat-flow observations in moso-bamboo forests, although moso-bamboo forests are a major forest type in western Japan. To accumulate such observations, we performed overland-flow and biomat-flow observations at six and three plots, respectively, in a moso-bamboo forest situated in Fukuoka. The ratio of overland flow to rainfall ranged between 0.6 % and 35.5 %. These values were apparently lower than those observed in Japanese cypress forests, and slightly lower than those observed in Japanese cedar forests and broadleaved forests. Only a small amount of biomat flow was observed in the moso-bamboo forest. As stand properties such as stem density and root amounts vary among different moso-bamboo forests, we recommend further studies measuring overland-flow and biomat-flow in various moso-bamboo forests.