Forest fragmentation and its effect on species diversity in sub-urban coppice forests in Japan

摘要: Abstract Forest fragmentation and its influence on plant species diversity was studied in 38 sub-urban coppice forest stands of the Kanto Plain, central Japan. Analyses historical aerial photographs showed that rapid has occurred these sites, especially sites near big cities. The forests tended to remain hilly areas with high topographic variations, which are not suitable for other type landuse. Species both trees floor plants were affected by fragmentation. For trees, number per unit area Shannon's index had significant positive correlations mean size patch proportion forested area. Those indices also patches complexity site. Frequencies interior rare increased increase size, while edge decreased. management regimes some effects diversity. Tree stand development, suggesting longer cycles would tree low where amount dwarf bamboo high. Traditional methods shrub cutting litter collection effect decreasing bamboo, thus increasing plants.