Data from: Architectural differences associated to functional traits among 45 coexisting tree species in central Africa

1. Architectural traits that determine the light captured in a given
environment are an important aspect of the life-history strategies of
tropical tree species. In this study, we examined how interspecific
variation in architectural traits is related to the functional traits of
45 coexisting tree species in central Africa. 2. At the tree level, we
measured tree diameter, total height and crown dimensions for an average
of 30 trees per species (range 14–72, total 968 trees) distributed over a
large range of diameters (up to 162 cm). Using log-log models, we fitted
species-specific allometric relationships between tree diameter, height
and crown dimensions. At the species level, we derived architectural
traits (height and crown dimensions) at 15 cm and maximum diameters from
species-specific allometries. The architectural traits were then related
to functional traits, including light requirements, wood density, leaf
habit, and dispersal mode. 3. Among the 45 coexisting tree species, we
identified strong variations in height and crown allometries, along with
architectural traits derived from these species-specific allometries.
There was a positive correlation among architectural traits, suggesting
that large-statured canopy species were taller and had larger and deeper
crowns than small-statured understory species at all ontogenic stages. The
relationships between architectural and functional traits highlighted a
continuum of species between the large-statured canopy species and the
small-statured understory species. In this moist and seasonal forest,
large-statured canopy species tended to be light-demanding,
wind-dispersed, deciduous and large contributors to forest biomass (high
basal area), while small-statured understory species tended to be
shade-tolerant, animal-dispersed, evergreen and most abundant in terms of
stem density. 4. Our results highlighted strong architectural differences
among coexisting tropical tree species in central Africa. The
relationships between architectural and functional traits provided
insights into the life-history strategy of tropical tree species.