Abstract: To understand population structure of Liriodendron chinense and strengthen its in situ conservation, we established a 1 hm² plot in the Jiugongshan National Nature Reserve, central China. We recorded species composition of the plot, and analyzed sizeclass structure, spatial distribution pattern, conspecific association, and interspecific association of seven dominant species. A total of 7159 living individuals were recorded, belonging to 113 species, 76 genera, and 40 families. The dominant species were Daphniphyllum macropodum, Pinus taiwanensis, Eurya muricata, Quercus serrata, Litsea elongate, Neoshirakia japonica,and L. chinense. The sizeclass structure of all individuals showed a reversed “J” shape, indicating good natural regeneration in this community. The sizeclass structure of L. chinense was fluctuating and had great potential to develop into a stable population. L. chinense mainly occurred at the southeast corner of the plot, suggesting an obvious habitat preference. The spatial distribution pattern of L. chinense was aggregated at scales of 0-32 m and 34-35 m, and uniform at scale of 50 m. There were no correlations among sapling, middleaged, and adult individuals ofL. chinense at most scales, with the exception of positive or negative correlations at some scales. Overall, this mixed broadleaf-conifer forest was a transitional community type, with species composition and community structure being instable. Conservation and management should be strengthened to promote the regeneration and survival of natural L. chinense populations.

Key words: Liriodendron chinense, species composition, size-class structure, point pattern analysis, conspecific association, interspecific association.