Data from: The size at reproduction of canopy tree species in central Africa

Size at reproduction is a key aspect of species life history that has been
little explored for long-lived tropical trees. In this study, we aimed to
quantify reproductive diameter for 31 major timber species across 11 sites
in Cameroon, Congo, and Central African Republic. Specifically, we
examined (1) whether between-species variability can be explained by a set
of seven species traits; (2) whether reproductive diameter varied
within-species among sites; (3) whether reproductive status varied with
crown exposure; and (4) whether the minimum cutting diameter limits (MCDL)
imposed by national forest regulations enable the persistence of seed
trees after logging operations. In accordance with studies conducted
elsewhere in the tropics, we found a great variability in diameter at
reproduction among species that was correlated with adult stature (maximum
diameter and height). For some species, reproductive diameter thresholds
showed substantial variation between sites, and crown exposure had a
significant positive effect on reproductive status. The majority of MCDLs
was found to be suitable, trees having high probability for being seed
trees at MCDL. As the most complete assessment of size at reproduction for
timber species in central Africa, the study has implications for the
sustainable management of production forests, highlighting questionable
MCDL for some species and between-site variation in reproductive diameter.
The study also highlighted the need for long-term phenological monitoring
of tree species spanning a large range of ecological strategies to address
both theoretical (species life-history, allocation trade-offs) and
practical questions (MCDL).