Establishment, Survival and Growth of Tree Seedlings Under Successional Montane Oak Forests in Chiapas, Mexico

摘要: Tropical montane forests are considered globally under threatened status due to their high rates of deforestation (Webster 1995; Brown and Kappelle 2001; Bubb et al. 2004; 2004). The current land-use pattern in many southern Mexico has created a variety successional habitats where relatively plant diversity levels persist. However, it appears that thresholds exist the intensity frequency human disturbance these habitats. Such impede successful establishment seedlings original tree species (Ramirez-Marcial 2003). Forest recovery circumstances may be limited by availability seeds, seed seedling predation, competition (Holl 2000; see Chap. 13). A gradual elimination reproductive adults understorey broad-leaved been documented Quintana-Ascencio Absence trees results scarce or null large, open, disturbed forest areas (Camacho-Cruz 2000), suggesting short term regeneration seriously affected. Therefore, restoration rehabilitation practices regarded as valuable options 2005). If is hindered could achieved artificial introduction juveniles can later accelerate natural regeneration. Information about growth, survival, along light gradients urgently needed. Seedlings crucial life stage regeneration, populations highly dynamic, providing opportunities gather meaningful data time (Turner 2001). It well known