The Spatial Distribution of Quercus mongolica and Its Association with Other Tree Species in Two Quercus mongolica Stands in Mt. Jiri, Korea

Stand structure and spatial associations of the dominant tree species in Quercus mongolica stands were investigated to understand interspecific relationships and the persistent dominance of Q. mongolica. We examined the species composition, DBH (diameter at breast height) distribution, and spatial distribution of trees ( ${\geq}\;2.5\;cm$ DBH) in two permanent $100\;m\;{\times}\;100\;m$ plots in Q. mongolica-dominant stands on the western part of Mt. Jiri. Ripley's K-function was used to characterize the spatial patterns and associations of dominant tree species. Q. mongolica showed a continuous and reverse-J shaped DBH distribution with clumped spatial distribution in both study sites. Q. mongolica and Abies koreana exhibited a negative association implying potential interspecific competition. The positive spatial association between Q. mongolica and Alnus hirsuta var. sibirica and Fraxinus sieboldiana were affected by site characteristics: limited habitat conditions with a large proportion of rock surface. Our results suggest that interactions among species were complex and ranged from positive to negative. Differences in stand and site characteristics and regeneration mechanisms among the species play an important role in regulating their spatial distribution patterns, while competition between individuals also contributes to spatial patterning of these communities. The high density and the early developmental stage of spatial distribution and structural characteristics of Q. mongolica and the relatively low importance values of other species in the stands imply that Q. mongolica will remain dominant in the study sites in the near future.