In the M and L areas, the quantitative values
are high because there are many existing trees in the
area as a result of the previous selective logging.
Seedlings grow very fast under the different sizes of
the light gaps and then they reach a maximum density
for that area. The even-age of trees, especially for the
same species, will use the same resources leading to
inter- and intra-specific competition. Nutrients and
light thus become the limiting factors to growth.
Therefore, in the late succession stages, some trees or
some species will be eliminated through the natural
selection process and the tree density becomes
lower.(22, 23) This is the cause of the decline in the
quantitative characters seen in the VL area compared
to that in the L area.