Gap-Scale Disturbance Patterns and Processes in a Montane Pinus palustris Woodland

Gap-scale disturbances drive successional and structural development patterns in most forest ecosystems. Although fire-maintained Pinus palustris woodlands are less light limited than closed canopy forests, gap-scale disturbance processes may still influence developmental pathways. We quantified biophysical characteristics of 50 gaps a montane woodland to analyze processes. found (64%) were caused by the death single tree. Snag-formed common (38%) followed snapped stems (32%). hypothesized that insect-induced mortality, perhaps combination with drought periods, resulted high frequency snag- stem-formed gaps. did not find significant differences gap size or shape based on formation closure mechanisms. Most (74%) projected close lateral crown expansion perimeter trees. via subcanopy recruitment would be captured P. stem. The majority small declined increased size. significantly clustered through at distances 8–36 m from edge but randomly distributed beyond 36 m.