A chronology of hurricane induced changes in Puerto Rico’s Lower Montane Rain Forest

Abstract

Ridges in the lower montane rain forests of Puerto Rico and the Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to Grenada are dominated by tabonuco (Dacryodes excelsa Vahl), a long-lived tree adapted to recurrent hurricanes. The oldest tabonuco trees in Puerto Rico appear to survive 500 to 600yrs in forests that periodically (perhaps every 50 to 60yrs) lose nearly one-fifth of their biomass. Post hurricane-recovery, characterized by greater rates of stem ingrowth and mortality, showed an immediate and abundant regeneration of yagrumo hembra (Cecropia schreberiana Mig.) along with numerous small- to medium-sized species in forest openings. Stem density, species numbers, and the rate of biomass accumulation are at a maximum 15yrs after the hurricane; about 50yrs later, most of the secondary species associated with past forest disturbance have disappeared and the rate of biomass accumulation becomes asymptotic.

Citation

Weaver, P.L. 2002. A chronology of hurricane induced changes in Puerto Rico’s Lower Montane Rain Forest. Interciencia. 27(5): 252-258.