Habitat environment data and potential habitat interpolation of Cyathea lepifera at the Tajen Experimental Forest Station in Taiwan

Cyatheaceae (tree ferns) are an ancient plant family widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, and are valued as witnesses to the evolution of the earth's species. The factors affecting tree fern growth include temperature, moisture, and light. In recent years, mass mortalities of Cyathea lepifera have occurred in Taiwan, threatening the survival of this species. To examine the growth situation of tree ferns in Southern Taiwan, we used the Tajen Experimental Forest Station as a study area and surveyed 214 samples of C. lepifera trees to establish spatial information for a database of C. lepifera to be used for conservation strategy. The results show that the ecological optima are an elevation of 500–800 m, slope of 20–30°, aspect of 90–135° (Eastern), and whole light sky space of 20%–80%. Most tree ferns grow in open areas and valley areas, and the health of C. lepifera is greatest in the valley areas. In addition, a high light environment is not conducive to seedling regeneration, and low light conditions lead to competition for resources. Therefore, C. lepifera can grow in a medium-high photometric environment, which promotes plant growth and seedling regeneration. In the future, we will designate conservation areas according to the optimal habitat as well as adopt forest management practices to protect this species.