An index to assess the health of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forest

The health status of the Moso bamboo forest could affect the economic value, ecosystem functions, and long-term sustainable management. However, there are still deficiencies in the scientific recognition and accurately assessment for the health status of the Moso bamboo forest. Using an index system to quantitatively assess the health of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forest can provide an intuitional recognition for the status of Moso bamboo forest. Here, the health assessment index system of the Moso bamboo forest was established by literature collection, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and expert questionnaire. The health index of the Moso bamboo forest was calculated by the comprehensive health index. The practicability and feasibility of the health assessment index system were then verified by the Moso bamboo forest in Anhui and Fujian provinces of China. The health index of the Moso bamboo forest in Anhui and Fujian provinces ranged from 0.50 to 0.83. The health index of the Moso bamboo mixed forest generally performing higher than that of the pure Moso bamboo forest. Only 2.35% of the Moso bamboo forest health index scored higher than 0.80, whereas 22.35% scored lower than 0.60. These results suggested that the health status should be improved in most of the Moso bamboo forest. The health assessment index system provides an important tool to guide Moso bamboo forest resource management and prioritize scientific research.