Chin J Plant Ecol ›› 2008, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (2): 501-511.DOI: 10.3773/j.issn.1005-264x.2008.02.030

• Research Articles • Previous Articles     Next Articles

REVIEW OF STUDIES ON MAXIMUM SIZE-DENSITY RULES

FU Li-Hua, ZHANG Jian-Guo*(), DUAN Ai-Guo, SUN Hong-Gang, HE Cai-Yun   

  1. Institute of Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Laboratory of Siviculture of the State Forestry Administration, Beijing 100091, China
  • Received:2007-01-29 Accepted:2007-06-16 Online:2008-03-30 Published:2008-03-30
  • Contact: ZHANG Jian-Guo

Abstract:

We summarized the research on theory and method related to maximum size-density rules. There are two main theories, Yoda's 3/2 power law based on Euclidian geometry and West, Brown and Enquist's fractal scaling rules (WBE model). However, both are based on static analysis rather than dynamic competition between plants, which is the direction attempted by recent researchers. In spite of this, some researches have not eliminated the reliance on these untenable assumptions, such as the instead of whole population by the average plant size. Further work is needed. In addition, there is ongoing debate regarding assumptions, mathematical deduction and original data points used for estimating parameters. Each model is formulated based on special situations and assumptions, it is not all-purpose; therefore, these models can be coupled, depending on practical situations. Moreover, various methods are used for estimating parameters because of different perceptions and criteria. Therefore uniform criteria need to be established.

Key words: maximum size-density line, 3/2 power law, WBE's model, stand density