2005 Volume 22 Issue 2 Pages 87-102
Relationships between forest floor vegetation and micro-landform were investigated in Pterocarya rhoifolia forests in Shikoku, Japan. Five types of micro-landforms in the forests were distinguished in this study: channel; terrace of debris flow; foot slope; lower sideslope; talus. Six types of forest floor vegetation of Pterocarya rhoifolia forests were distinguished. Peracarpa carnosa var. circaeoides community was established only on talus composed of rocky materials. On the other micro-landforms, some communities were established. Viola shikokiana community was established on the lower sideslope that consisted of organic deposits. Leucosceptrum stellipilum var. tosaense community was established on higher terrace of debris flow and lower sideslope not affected by fluvial processes. Meehania urticifolia community was established on foot slope having poor organic materials. Leucosceptrum japonicum community was established on foot slope and the lower terrace of debris flow mainly composed of sand and gravel. Eutrema japonica community was established on channels in the riverhead. Forest floor vegetation of Pterocarya rhoifolia forest was multiunit of these herbs influenced by not only micro-landform but also the soil condition.
