Aspects of the Dynamics of Rainforests in North-East Australia

Abstract

The aims of this study were to show that the structural and floristic features of some tropical rainforests in north-east Australia appear to be largely the result of characteristics of the individual plant species available at each site and the history and nature of disturbance at that site. ... Field observations indicated that gaps created by the death of a canopy level or larger tree were important in rainforest regenerative processes. The role of gaps was more closely examined using a theoretical model and field and glasshouse experiments. ... From a forest management viewpoint, studies of processes associated with regeneration in gaps suggested that there might be important limitations to the maximum growth rates which can be achieved by the restricted silvicultural modification of tropical rainforests. Nevertheless, the development of improved techniques for managing these forests is essential. This goal might be best achieved by continuing to develop an understanding of rainforest dynamics through studies of the regeneration, growth and mortality characteristics of their component species.