Plant species diversity and composition in limestone forests of the Vietnamese Cat Ba National Park

A study on the Cat Ba National Park, part of Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago, reveals that plant species diversity is primarily driven by topography—specifically rock surface percentage and slope—rather than spatial isolation. The research identified 302 plant species across four distinct communities, with tree species making up half of the total richness. Contrary to expectations, isolated areas did not significantly contribute to biodiversity due to natural barriers like rough terrain that hinder seed dispersal. While non-tree species had no overall impact on tree regeneration, they negatively affected tree diversity in favorable lowland conditions, unlike harsh environments where such effects were absent. The findings highlight the importance of accessible lowland areas for high plant diversity but also note potential competition from non-tree species.

Pham, V. V., Ammer, C., Annighöfer, P., & Heinrichs, S. (2022). Plant species diversity and composition in limestone forests of the Vietnamese Cat Ba National Park. Nature Conservation, 50, 23–64. https://doi.org/10.3897/natureconservation.50.86490