Causal analysis of the invasion of broad‐leaved forest by bamboo in Japan

Abstract. In southwestern Tokyo the area covered by bamboo forest has expanded by a factor of 2.7 over the last 26 years. This has mainly been due to bamboo ( Phyllostachyspubescens ) invading secondary broad‐leaved forests, probably after these were abandoned. In the first stage, bamboo sprouts develop from rhizomes at the periphery of the broad‐leaved forest and then grow very quickly into young culms. In the next phase culm density increases annually, while the existing broad‐leaved trees gradually lose their vitality and die. Finally, the broad‐leaved forest is completely replaced by bamboo forest. The competitive ability of bamboo, based on its morphological and growth features, is suggested as the causal factor for the invasion: (1) bamboo can invade a neighboring broad‐leaved forest by its vigorous rhizomes; (2) young bamboo culms can break through the canopy of broad‐leaved trees; (3) bamboo quickly forms a crown in or above the canopy of the broad‐leaved forest; (4) bamboo is very tolerant of strong wind and heavy snow accumulation; (5) bamboo culms, being very pliable during strong wind mechanically damage neighbouring broad‐leaved trees.