Analysis of the Resource Composition and Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Ancient and Famous Trees in Fuding City (China)

There are many ancient and famous trees in Fuding City. Studying resource composition, geographical distribution characteristics, and the relationships among ancient and famous trees is of great significance for their protection. ArcGIS, nuclear density analysis, and standard deviation ellipse were used to understand the distribution characteristics of these trees. The regression relationships of tree height, chest circumference, average crown width, elevation and slope were simulated using a geographically weighted regression model (GWR). The relationship between these factors and the age and distribution of ancient trees was explored. The dominant species include Liquidambar formosana, Ficus microcarpa, Distylium racemosum, Cinnamomum camphora, Taxus wallichiana, and Cryptomeria japonica. The height of the ancient trees mainly ranges between 10 and 20 m, with the majority having a chest circumference above 80 cm, and crown width is less than 10 m. Approximately 94.71% of the ancient trees exhibit standard growth patterns. According to nuclear density analysis, standard deviation ellipse analysis and geographic-weighted regression, the spatial distribution is related to altitude and topography. Tree height, average crown amplitude and slope are positively correlated with tree age. The outcomes of this study can serve as a valuable reference for the investigation of long-lived ancient trees.