UH Hilo Center for Maunakea Stewardship - Research Library

Stand structure of a montane rain forest on Mauna Loa, Hawaii

Author:
Cooray, Ranjit G.
Title:
Stand structure of a montane rain forest on Mauna Loa, Hawaii
Year:
1974
Pages:
ix, 98 l.
Subject:
Acacia koa Forest ecology Hawaii Island Mauna Loa Plants Hawaii Island Rain forests Hawaii Island
Summary:
A structural analysis was carried out in an Acacia-Metrosideros-Cibotium montane rain forest on the east slope of Mauna Loa on the island of Hawaii, to determine the status of all woody plant species and especially the status of the tall dominant tree species Acacia koa. Woody plant distribution by size-classes showed an inverse J-shaped distribution characteristic of a stable, self-maintaining forest. Structural analysis of individual species populations showed good stability trends for most low-stature and intermediate-stature tree species. Acacia koa was present in all size-classes. Thus, this species is regenerating and maintaining itself. Low numbers of koa saplings, small trees and intermediate-sized trees may reflect rapid height growth. Larger numbers of koa seedlings may also get established in pulses when large canopy gaps are formed. Most of the healthy koa saplings were observed on root collars of scattered wind-thrown koa trees. This type of "gap-phase replacement" can be related to the protection seedlings receive from pig activity.
Collection:
Monographs