Factors influencing the distribution of two co-occurring dwarf bamboo species (Sasa kurilensis and S. senanensis) in a conifer-broadleaved mixed stand in northern Hokkaido

We have investigated the factors influencing the distribution of co-occurring two dwarf bamboo species, Sasa kurilensis (Ruprecht) Makino et Shibata and S. senanensis (Franchet et Savatier) Rehder, within a conifer-broadleaved mixed stand managed with selection cutting in northern Japan. We first sought the possible determinant factors (physical environment and overstory conditions based on 30 years tree census data) deciding the dominant species in the plots (168 3.14m² area). We then examined the effects of these factors on the culm density and height of the dominant species. Linear discriminant analysis indicated that physical environmental conditions are important in determining the distribution; S. kurilensis tended to dominate plots with steep slope, convex shape and deep snow in early spring. Multiple regression analyses showed that culm density and height decreased significantly on steep slopes for both species. Also, the sum of the basal area (BA) of surrounding conifers (7.5 m radius around the plot), as well as the change in BA over the previous 30 years, had a negative influence on the culm height of both species. A reduction in overstory trees, caused by natural or artificial canopy disturbances, would increase the dwarf bamboo biomass. The effects of physical environment and overstory conditions, working through the dominance of the two dwarf bamboo species, should be taken into account in understanding the dynamics of natural forests in this region.