Data from: Successional growth dynamics of woody saplings in tropical dry forest understory

Here, we examine relative growth rates (RGR) of woody species
saplings along a broad successional gradient in a tropical dry forest
based on height and basal area data gathered over 15 years of vegetation
monitoring in permanent plots differing in successional age (1-73 years)
plus a mature forest plot. We used mixed-effects models to examine the
link between individual size, fallow age, and plant traits, and from this
link model their relationship with sapling RGR. Overall, growth tended to
be slow along the successional gradient, with the exception of the initial
10 years, during which most groups exhibited their highest growth rates.
The key factors influencing basal area growth were the species'
successional guild and their affiliation with the Leguminosae family. In
contrast, growth in height was primarily shaped by successional guild and
growth form. The widespread decline in sapling growth rates within the
understory indicates that, in later stages of succession, light
availability—rather than water—becomes the main limiting factor.