Nanjenshan Forest Dynamics Plot

The Nanjenshan Forest Dynamics Plot comprises four distinct forest dynamic plots: Lanjenchi, Nanjenshan Plot I, Nanjenshan Plot II, and Transect. Each of these plots has undergone a minimum of three surveys. Notably, the Lanjenchi plot is the oldest forest dynamics forest plot in Taiwan.

 Forest dynamics plots are central to ForestGEO, a global network of scientists and forest research sites dedicated to advancing the long-term study of the world's forests. The established protocol at each ForestGEO site involves setting up a plot spanning 10-50 hectares. All woody species with a diameter exceeding 1 cm are measured and tagged within these designated areas. Furthermore, each tree is identified by species and mapped on a comprehensive location. This process assigns a unique identification number to every tree within the specified area, and subsequent resurveys of the plot occur every 5-8 years.

 Among the Nanjenshan Forest Dynamic Plots, the Lanjenchi plot is the fourth ForestGEO plot established worldwide. Its inception dates back to 1989, with the survey completed in 1991. Originating as a 3-hectare expanse, the Lanjenchi plot progressively expanded to 5.88 hectares during the second census. After the initial survey in 1991, the establishment of the remaining plots ensued. All four plots continue their periodic surveys within the 5-8 year interval. The following list outlines the respective census periods for each plot:

• Lanjenchi plot (5.88-ha): 1991 (3-ha), 1997 (extended to 5.88-ha), 2005, 2013, 2019.

• Nanjenshan plot I (2.1-ha): 1993, 2000, 2008, 2013, 2020

• Nanjenshan plot II (0.64-ha): 2000, 2008, 2013, 2020

• Transect (0.76-ha): 1995, 2013, 2020