Reconstruction of establishment process in a secondary deciduous broad-leaved forest by tree ring analysis

Abstract

We estimated establishment process of the secondary deciduous broad-leaved forest, based on the establishment and growth processes of dominant tree species detected by tree ring analysis. In the period of coppicing, many trees frequently showed releases, which suggest many remaining individuals abruptly grew by the disturbance of coppicing. Around the beginning of the abandonment, it is likely that Quercus serrata and Prunus jamasakura were most frequently established. Ratios of individuals showing suppressed growth increased in the succession after the abandonment. On the other hand, releases discontinuously occurred, which suggests disturbances by fallen trees occurred in the process of succession.