Environmental factors influencing mortality of main tree species in a Quercus serrata secondary forest in the suburban area.

Abstract

We surveyed mortality of tall tree species, Ilex pedunculosa, Quercus serrata, Cryptomeria japonica, Chamaecyparis obtusa and Padus grayana in the secondary forest. Basal area showed a significantly smaller value in the dead individuals of all species. High mortality for Q. serrata was observed in high density of neighboring trees. Mortality for both I. pedunculosa and C. obtusa was affected by soil pH. Soil phosphorus content and slope gradient of habitats influenced mortality of C. japonica and Q. serrata, respectively. Many standing dead individuals of P. grayana were observed in low soil moisture or low potassium content environment.