Phylogenetic Structure of Low Altitude Forest Communities in Baotianman Mountain

[Objectives] We aimed to reveal the phylogenetic structure of low altitude forest communities in Baotianman Mountain. [Methods] Ten 20 m×20 m plots were set at an altitude of 249-796 m in Baotianman Nature Reserve, in which 62 plant species were found. A phylogenetic tree was established on Phylomatic website, and the community related phylogenetic indexes at low altitude were calculated and analyzed, including net relatedness index (NRI), nearest taxon index (NTI), phylogenetic diversity Faith's PD index, phylogenetic β diversity PhyloSor index and Dnn index. [Results] The NTI and NRI values of low altitude forest communities were generally greater than 0, showing phylogenetically clustered communities, and habitat filtration was the dominant factor in community construction. Combined with the species abundance matrix of plots, it was found that PD index had a significantly positive correlation with species richness. Phylogenetic β diversity PhyloSor index was larger in the lower altitude area, which was exactly opposite to Dnn index. In other words, the more similar the community, the closer the distance between species, and the communities were phylogenetically clustered. [Conclusions] The study can provide a scientific basis for forest community management and restoration.