Nutrient cycle of uplifted coral reef forest

Four habitat types in a 10-ha permanent plot of an uplifted coral reef forest in southern Taiwan were chosen and subjected to systematic litterfall related processes. Ebenaceae and Euphorbiaceae were the dominant families. The common species in the four habitats were Diospyros maritime, Ficus benjamina and Melanolepis multiglandulosa. Habitat I on the flat terrace was dominated by Bischofia javanica and Palaquium formosanum; habitat II on the ridge of exposed coral reef was dominated by Aglaia formosana and Pouteria obovata; habitat III on the sedimentary basin was dominated by Macaranga tanariu; habitat IV at the bottom of valley was dominated by Pisonia umbellifera. Litter productions, decomposition processes and nutrient returns were monitored over a 12-month period in the four habitats.