植物学报Acta Botanica Sinica 2002,44(9):1105-1122Vegetation-imate Relationship and Its Application in theDivision of Vegetation Zone in ChinaFANGJing Yun', SONG Yong Chang , LIU Hong Yan', PIAO Shi-Long(1.Depatment g Eelogy, Peking Uersty, Beijing 10071,Chia;2.Department g Enironmental Sctencs,East China Nomal University,Shanghai 200062,China)Abstract:Distributionof vegetation is closelycoupledwith climate:theclimate controls distribution of vegetation and the vegetationtype reflects regional climates.Toreveal vegetation-climate relationships is thefourrdation for understanding the vegetation distribution and tineoretically serving vegetation regionalization.Vegetartion regionalization is a theoretical integration of vegetation studies and provides a base for physiogeographicalregionalization as well as agriculture and forestry regionalization.Basedon a brief historical overview on studiesofvegetation-climaterelationships and vegetation regionalization conducted inChina,wereviewtheprinciplesbasesandmajorschemesofpreviousvegetationregionalizationanddiscussonseveralcontentiousboundariesofvegetation zones in the present paper.We proposed that,under the circumstances that theprimary vegetationhas been destroyed in most parts of China,the division of vegetation zones/regions should be based on thedistributionofprimaryand itssecondaryvegetationtypesand climatic indicesthatdelimit distributionofthevegetation types.Thisnotonlyreveals the closed relationship between vegetation and climate,but also isfeasiblepractically.Although there still are divergence of views on the name and their boundaries of the several vegetartion zones,it is commonly accepted that there are eight major vegetation regions in China,i.e.cold temperateneedleleaf forest region,temperate needleleaf and broadleaf mixed forest region,warm temperate decidupusbroadleafforestregion,subtropical evergreenbroadleafforestregion,tropical monsoonforestandrainforestregion,temperatestepperegion,temperatedesertregion,andQinghai-Xizang(Tibetan)Plateauhigh-coldvege-tation region.Analyzing characteristics of vegetation and climateof major vegetation boundaries,we suggestedthat:1) Qinling Mountain-Huaihe River line is an important arid/humid climatic, but not a thermal climaticboundary,and thus can not alsoberegarded as thenorthern limit of the subtropical vegetation zone;2)themorthern limitof subtropical vegetation zonein China is alongthe morthern coast of theYangtzeRiver,fromHangzhou Bayvia Taihu Lake,Xuancheng and Tongling in Anhui Province,through by southern slope of theDabieMountains,to Wuhan and itswest,coincidingwith a warmth index(wI)value of 130-140Cmonth:3)thetropicalregionislimitedinaverysmallareainsoutheasternHainanIslandandsouthernedgeofTaiwan Island;and 4) considering a significant difference in climates between the southern and morthern partsofthewarmtemperate zone,we suggested thatthewarm temperate zone in China is divided intotwo vegetationregions,deciduous broadleaf woodland region and deciduous and evergreen broadleaf mixed forest region,theQinlingMountain-Huaihe River line being as their boundary:We also claimed that the zonal vegetation inNorthChina isdeciduousbroadleaf woodland.Finally,weemphasizedtheimportanceofdynamic vegetationregionalizationlinkedtoclimatechanges.Key words:China; dynamic vegetation regionalization; arid/humid climate; northern limit of subtropicalzone;Qinling Mountain-Huaihe River line;thermal climate;vegetation-climate relationship;vegetation regionalization;vegetation zoneThe vegetation-climate relationship is an oldtopicmate change approaches, for example, biogeographicaland new theme in both botany and geography.Its compre-model (BIOMEI) proposed by Prentice et alill and bio-hensive study has been over one hundred years,from eargeochemical model (BIOME3) of Haxeltine et a/l12), AIllyclassic studies suchasthe global meantemperaturethese studies demonstrate that climate controls geographi-isotherm in the 19th century by Alex. v, Humboldt[]cal distribution of vegetation and distribution of vegetationtemperature one by Supan/2], climate classification bytypes reflects the regional climates.Koppen[3] , classification of life-fombased plant climateIt is said that the history of studies on vegetationzone by Raunkiaer(4],vegetation-climate classificationclimate relationship in China can be restrospected to the11th century Bcl13], Hbwever, application of the vegetabased on water balance by Thornthwaite[5] , life zone clas-sification system by Hbldridgel6,7], eco-climate classifi-tion-climate relationship to vegetation regionalization wascation by Kirals,9], and classification system based onbegun since the 1930s. Li[14] first proposed a scheme ofevapotranspiration processes by Budykoloj, to recent clivegetation regionalization of China. From then, severalReceived: 2002-07-02Accepted: 2002-07-19Supported by the State Key Basic Research and Development Pan (C2000046801) and National Natural Science Foundaion of China (39830050,49971002)1994-2008 China Academic Journal Electronic Publishing House. All rights reserved..http://www.cnki.net
Vegetation- Climate Relationship and Its Application in the Division of Vegetation Zone in China FANGJing- Yun1 , SONG Yong-Chang2 , LIU Hong- Yan1 , PIAO Shi-Long1 (1. Department of Ecology , Peking University , Beijing 100871 , China ; 2. Department of Environmental Sciences , East China Normal University , Shanghai 200062 , China) Abstract : Distribution of vegetation is closely coupled with climate ; the climate controls distribution of vege2 tation and the vegetation type reflects regional climates. To reveal vegetation-climate relationships is the foun2 dation for understanding the vegetation distribution and theoretically serving vegetation regionalization. Vegeta2 tion regionalization is a theoretical integration of vegetation studies and provides a base for physiogeographical regionalization as well as agriculture and forestry regionalization. Based on a brief historical overview on studies of vegetation-climate relationships and vegetation regionalization conducted in China , we review the principles , bases and major schemes of previous vegetation regionalization and discuss on several contentious boundaries of vegetation zones in the present paper. We proposed that , under the circumstances that the primary vegetation has been destroyed in most parts of China , the division of vegetation zones/ regions should be based on the dis2 tribution of primary and its secondary vegetation types and climatic indices that delimit distribution of the vege2 tation types. This not only reveals the closed relationship between vegetation and climate , but also is feasible practically. Although there still are divergence of views on the name and their boundaries of the several vegeta2 tion zones , it is commonly accepted that there are eight major vegetation regions in China ,i. e. cold temperate needleleaf forest region , temperate needleleaf and broadleaf mixed forest region , warm temperate deciduous broadleaf forest region , subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest region , tropical monsoon forest and rain forest re2 gion , temperate steppe region , temperate desert region , and Qinghai- Xizang (Tibetan) Plateau high-cold vege2 tation region. Analyzing characteristics of vegetation and climate of major vegetation boundaries , we suggested that : 1) Qinling Mountain- Huaihe River line is an important arid/ humid climatic , but not a thermal climatic boundary , and thus can not also be regarded as the northern limit of the subtropical vegetation zone ; 2) the northern limit of subtropical vegetation zone in China is along the northern coast of the Yangtze River , from Hangzhou Bay , via Taihu Lake , Xuancheng and Tongling in Anhui Province , through by southern slope of the Dabie Mountains , to Wuhan and its west , coinciding with a warmth index ( WI) value of 130 - 140 ℃· month ; 3) the tropical region is limited in a very small area in southeastern Hainan Island and southern edge of Taiwan Island ; and 4) considering a significant difference in climates between the southern and northern parts of the warm temperate zone , we suggested that the warm temperate zone in China is divided into two vegetation regions , deciduous broadleaf woodland region and deciduous and evergreen broadleaf mixed forest region , the Qinling Mountain- Huaihe River line being as their boundary. We also claimed that the zonal vegetation in North China is deciduous broadleaf woodland. Finally , we emphasized the importance of dynamic vegetation regionalization linked to climate changes. Key words : China ; dynamic vegetation regionalization ; arid/ humid climate ; northern limit of subtropical zone ; Qinling Mountain- Huaihe River line ; thermal climate ; vegetation-climate relationship ; vegetation regionalization ; vegetation zone The vegetation-climate relationship is an old topic and new theme in both botany and geography. Its compre2 hensive study has been over one hundred years , from ear2 ly classic studies such as the global mean temperature isotherm in the 19th century by Alex. v. Humboldt[1 ] , temperature zone by Supan[2 ] , climate classification by Koppen[3 ] , classification of life-form-based plant climate zone by Raunkiaer[4 ] , vegetation-climate classification based on water balance by Thornthwaite[5 ] , life zone clas2 sification system by Holdridge[6 , 7 ] , eco-climate classifi2 cation by Kira[8 , 9 ] , and classification system based on evapotranspiration processes by Budyko[10 ] , to recent cli2 mate change approaches , for example , biogeographical model (BIOME1) proposed by Prentice et al [11 ] and bio2 geochemical model (BIOME3) of Haxeltine et al [12 ] . All these studies demonstrate that climate controls geographi2 cal distribution of vegetation and distribution of vegetation types reflects the regional climates. It is said that the history of studies on vegetationclimate relationship in China can be restrospected to the 11th century BC[13 ] . However , application of the vegeta2 tion-climate relationship to vegetation regionalization was begun since the 1930s. Li[14 ] first proposed a scheme of vegetation regionalization of China. From then , several Received : 2002207202 Accepted : 2002207219 Supported by the State Key Basic Research and Development Plan ( G2000046801) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (39830050 , 49971002) . 植 物 学 报 Acta Botanica Sinica 2002 , 44 (9) : 1105 - 1122
1106植物学报ActaBotanica SinicaVol.44No.92002others were suggested by diferent authorsl15,16]Aftertains,particularly in low latitudes, such as MtQumurlangma(Everest),thevegetation zone changesfrom tropi-foundation of the People's Republic of China in 1949,cal rain forest to alpine meadow from the foot upwards(40]particularly during 1950s-1960s,many studies had beenconducted and several systems on principles,bases andInthearid zoneof northChina,closeforestisformed onschemes of China's vegetation regionalization had beenthemiddle and upper parts of the mountains, e.g.Mts.proposed. Houl7] compared and summarized these sysTianshan and Qilian(4f)tems and developed the theories of vegetation ecology inIn addition, rising of the Qinghai-Xizang PlateauChina,whichprovideda basisfor thebook"Vegetation ofleads to a special plateau climate and thus forms a specialChina" published in 1980[13]. It was said that this periodpattern of vegetation distribution.Such a special vegetarwas a blooming stage of vegetation sciences in China.Fewtion pattern in the Plateau has been termed as“plateaustudies on vegetation regionalization were conducted durzonality of vegetationto distinguish horizontal zonalityand vertical zonality of vegetation(42]. The plateau 2onali-ing 1966-1976.At the beginning ofthe1980s,thiskind of study was refocused and developedis,19],Thetyhasbeen formed bytheIndian monsoon,thehigh pressure of Qinghai-Xizang Plateau and the“heating effect"ofapplication of computertechnology has madethequantitarthe plateau surfacel42Although there are sill differenttivestudiesofvegetatikon-climaterelationshippossibleandhas become one of the focuses of vegetation sciences inviewpoints on the vegetation distribution on the Qinghai-China since the early 1980s/20-38]Xizang Plateau/43] , the unique pattern of the plateau vegIn this paper,we will take overview on studies ofetation has been recognized by many studies(44- 50]vegetation-climaterelationshipinChinasummarizemajorThe vegetation distribution of China can be characschemes of China's vegetation regionalization,and disterized by the latitudinal zonality, longitudinal zonalitycuss some important vegetation boundaries.We alsovertical zonality,and plateau zonalityas described abovedemonstratethe importanceof dynamicvegetation regiorrThey constitute theoretical basisfor vegetation regionalizaralization linked to climatic changes.It should be notethattion of China.the vegetation regionalization described in this paperrefers1.2Qimatic factors affecting vegetation distributionprimarily the division of vegetation zone or region, but motTemperature and precipitation are two majorfactorsthe classification of smaller vegetation units than vegetaraffecting vegetation distribution51]Precipitation or intetion zones.grated water and heat conditions (moisture index)distin-Geographic Patterns of Vegetation and airguishforest vegetation from non-forest vegetation (forest-1steppe,steppe,deserts),while limitingfactorfor distri-mate in China and Climatic Factors Influenc-bution of forest types is thermal climate.The quantitativeing Vegetation Distributionrelationship between distribution of foresttypesand ther1.1 Geographical patterns of vegetation and climatemal climatethusbecomesthebasisfordivisionofthermalChina is stronglyaffectedbythemonsoon climatezones and latitudinal distribution of vegetation.In the eastern part of China,it is cold and dryin winter1.2.1 Moisture indexes affecting vegetation distriandwarmandhumidinsummer,whichissynchroousbutionIntheperiodof 1950s-1960saridityindexwaswith thephonological changes of plants.The climatezoneused for division of the arid/humid climate zones ofchangesfromtropical,subtropical,warmtemperate,temrChina[52, 53], Because accumulative temperature was ap-peratetocold temperateinturnfromsouthtomorthinplied in the aridity index and because it could not revealeasternpartofChina.Correspondingtotheclimaticzonesexactly vegetation distribution, an annual aridity indexthat are almost parallel with the latitude belt, distributionwas proposed and used in the new climate regionalizarof vegetation in theeasternpart of China also shows antion(54)obviouslatitudinal zonality,i.e.tropical rain forestandA number of studies showed that Thornthwaitesmonsoon forest, subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest,moisture index (Im)[51 derived from water balance wasdeciduous broadleaf forest,evergreen and decidupusregarded as a rational parameter for analyzing relationshipneedleleaf forest occurin turn from southto north,formrbetween moisture condition and vegetation distriburingthegreatestcontinuumofforestvegetationintheworldton/24,27,556] hang/24] sudied ditribution f majoandbecomingareferenceofvegetation-climaterelatiorrvegetation types using Thornthwaite classification systemship studies and global latitudinal zonality.On the otherand found that distribution of vegetation in China washand, affected by the continental climate, it is dry instrongly related to Im. Fang and Yoda(27] figured out thatnorthwest China.With the changes fromhumid to aridclimate from east to west,the vegetation type changesdistribution of major vegetation types in China correspond-from forest,forest steppe,steppe and desert;this isedwell to Im values,and humidforest(e.g.evergreentermed as longitudinal zonality of vegetation.forestrainforest)deciduousbroadleafforest,woodChina is a mountainous country , and more than halfland,grassland and desert corresponded tothe Im valuesof the territory isoccupied by mountains and plateaus[39]of>60.60-0,0--20,-20--40,and<-40Vertical zonality of vegetation which is closely related torespectively.This provided quantitative criterion for vege-tation division in China.horizontal zonality,isfomed in a large amunt of mourr1994-2008 China Academic Journal Electronic Publishing House. All rights reserved..http://www.cnki.net
others were suggested by different authors[15 , 16 ] . After foundation of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 , particularly during 1950s - 1960s , many studies had been conducted and several systems on principles , bases and schemes of China’s vegetation regionalization had been proposed. Hou[17 ] compared and summarized these sys2 tems and developed the theories of vegetation ecology in China , which provided a basis for the book“Vegetation of China”published in 1980[13 ] . It was said that this period was a blooming stage of vegetation sciences in China. Few studies on vegetation regionalization were conducted dur2 ing 1966 - 1976. At the beginning of the 1980s , this kind of study was refocused and developed[18 , 19 ]. The application of computer technology has made the quantita2 tive studies of vegetation-climate relationship possible and has become one of the focuses of vegetation sciences in China since the early 1980s[20 - 38 ] . In this paper , we will take overview on studies of vegetation-climate relationship in China , summarize major schemes of China’s vegetation regionalization , and dis2 cuss some important vegetation boundaries. We also demonstrate the importance of dynamic vegetation region2 alization linked to climatic changes. It should be note that the vegetation regionalization described in this paper refers primarily the division of vegetation zone or region , but not the classification of smaller vegetation units than vegeta2 tion zones. 1 Geographic Patterns of Vegetation and Cli2 mate in China and Climatic Factors Influenc2 ing Vegetation Distribution 1. 1 Geographical patterns of vegetation and climate China is strongly affected by the monsoon climate. In the eastern part of China , it is cold and dry in winter and warm and humid in summer , which is synchronous with the phonological changes of plants. The climate zone changes from tropical , subtropical , warm temperate , tem2 perate to cold temperate in turn from south to north in eastern part of China. Corresponding to the climatic zones that are almost parallel with the latitude belt , distribution of vegetation in the eastern part of China also shows an obvious latitudinal zonality , i. e. tropical rain forest and monsoon forest , subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest , deciduous broadleaf forest , evergreen and deciduous needleleaf forest occur in turn from south to north , form2 ing the greatest continuum of forest vegetation in the world and becoming a reference of vegetation-climate relation2 ship studies and global latitudinal zonality. On the other hand , affected by the continental climate , it is dry in northwest China. With the changes from humid to arid climate from east to west , the vegetation type changes from forest , forest steppe , steppe and desert ; this is termed as longitudinal zonality of vegetation. China is a mountainous country , and more than half of the territory is occupied by mountains and plateaus[39 ] . Vertical zonality of vegetation which is closely related to horizontal zonality , is formed in a large amount of moun2 tains , particularly in low latitudes , such as Mt. Qumu2 langma (Everest) , the vegetation zone changes from tropi2 cal rain forest to alpine meadow from the foot upwards[40 ] . In the arid zone of north China , close forest is formed on the middle and upper parts of the mountains , e. g. Mts. Tianshan and Qilian[41 ] . In addition , rising of the Qinghai- Xizang Plateau leads to a special plateau climate and thus forms a special pattern of vegetation distribution. Such a special vegeta2 tion pattern in the Plateau has been termed as“plateau zonality of vegetation”to distinguish horizontal zonality and vertical zonality of vegetation[42 ] . The plateau zonali2 ty has been formed by the Indian monsoon , the high pres2 sure of Qinghai- Xizang Plateau and the“heating effect”of the plateau surface[42 ] . Although there are still different viewpoints on the vegetation distribution on the QinghaiXizang Plateau[43 ] , the unique pattern of the plateau veg2 etation has been recognized by many studies[44 - 50 ] . The vegetation distribution of China can be charac2 terized by the latitudinal zonality , longitudinal zonality , vertical zonality , and plateau zonality as described above. They constitute theoretical basis for vegetation regionaliza2 tion of China. 1. 2 Climatic factors affecting vegetation distribution Temperature and precipitation are two major factors affecting vegetation distribution[51 ] . Precipitation or inte2 grated water and heat conditions (moisture index) distin2 guish forest vegetation from non-forest vegetation (foreststeppe , steppe , deserts) , while limiting factor for distri2 bution of forest types is thermal climate. The quantitative relationship between distribution of forest types and ther2 mal climate thus becomes the basis for division of thermal zones and latitudinal distribution of vegetation. 1. 2. 1 Moisture indexes affecting vegetation distri2 bution In the period of 1950s - 1960s aridity index was used for division of the arid/ humid climate zones of China[52 , 53 ] . Because accumulative temperature was ap2 plied in the aridity index and because it could not reveal exactly vegetation distribution , an annual aridity index was proposed and used in the new climate regionaliza2 tion[54 ] . A number of studies showed that Thornthwaite’s moisture index ( Im) [5 ] derived from water balance was regarded as a rational parameter for analyzing relationship between moisture condition and vegetation distribu2 tion[24 , 27 , 55 , 56 ]. Chang[24 ] studied distribution of major vegetation types using Thornthwaite classification system and found that distribution of vegetation in China was strongly related to Im. Fang and Yoda[27 ] figured out that distribution of major vegetation types in China correspond2 ed well to Im values , and humid forest (e. g. evergreen forest , rain forest) , deciduous broadleaf forest , wood2 land , grassland and desert corresponded to the Im values of > 60 , 60 - 0 , 0 - - 20 , - 20 - - 40 , and < - 40 , respectively. This provided quantitative criterion for vege2 tation division in China. 1106 植物学报 Acta Botanica Sinica Vol. 44 No. 9 2002
1107FANGJing Yun et al : Vegetation-Climate Relationship and Its Application in the Division of Vegetation Zone in ChinaIn addition, the Im was also used to document vege-cal spectra and geographical differentiation of componenttation-climaterelationship atregional scale.For example,genera along the 30°N in East Asia and found that theWang and Xiaol57) studied distribution of vegetation typesWI and CI values changed with continentality index, sugalong an Im gradient in the Loess Plateau. N;[33] ana-gesting that continentality index should betaken into corrsideration in division ofvegetation zone.Ni andlyzedtherelationshipbetweendistributionofevergreenSong/34,35] found that Kira's indexes intepreted successbroadleaf trees and the Im values,Hbldridge's life zonefully distribution of evergreen broadleaf forests.system was also widely applied in study of the vegetation-climaterelationhip inChina59]bwverbecauMajor Principles, Bases and Schemes of2potential evapotranspiration rate (PER) of the HoldridgeChina's Vegetation Regionalizationsystem17]is the ratio of annual biotemperature to annual2.1Principles and basesprecipitation that is analogous to the arid/humidity indexThehorizontal zonality(latitudinal zonality and lorrused in the early climate classification systems (e.ggitudinal zonality)and thevertical zonalityaretheoreticalKoppen system),its applicability is questioned.bases for vegetation regionalization,of which the horizor1.2.2Thermal indexes affecting distribution of vegtalnality is critical967)mongtheorntalnalietation typesMeantemperaturewas adoptedto identifyty, the latitudinal zonality is caused by different solar rarthe relationship between vegetation distribution and therdiationandfurtherthermalconditionsontheearthsurfacemal conditions during the early stages.It was also used infrom southtomorth,and thusindicatesthezonationofthe regionalization of China's vegetation and climate dur-ing the early stages[60-62] After the 1950s, fective ac-thermal conditions,while longitude has mo biological significance and means only the geographical coordinate andcumulativetemperaturewas used as thermal parameterfortime.The longitudinal zonality demonstrates the moisturedivision of thermal climate[52], Chen[54] adopted the numrdifference from oceanic to continental climate caused byber of days of effective accumulative temperature as thetheoceanicand inlanddistribution.Thelatitudinal zonal-thermal index for division of climate zones.Recently,ity of vegetation indicates the changes of heat,while theZhou and Zhang/37], based on Thornthwaite's potentiallongitudinal zonality shows difference in the moisture;evapotranspiration（1948）,proposeda new index,recombinationof both is a basis for vegetation regionalizargionalpotential evapotranspiration (RPE)to explorethetion368]naddition,the unqueeation pateclimate-vegetation relationship,and applied it for the cli-theQinghai-XizangPlateaushouldalsobetakeninto cormate-vegetation classification of China for climate changesideration in vegetation regionalizationof China.There arestudy[38]three major viewpoints about the bases of vegetation reIn China, Warmth Index (wI) [8,9] and Coldnessgionalization in China :Index (Ch) [9, 63] have been broadly used to explore the(1)Characteristicsofzonal vegetation,compositioncouplings between vegetation distribution and temperatureof flora,and distribution of cultivated vegetation are pri-conditions.TheWIisasimplifiedeffectiveaccumulativemary bases. HOU Xue- Yu (HOU Hsioh- Yu) is a repre-temperature that uses monthly mean temperature,and issentative of this viewpoint.HOU18,67] demed that zonallinearlyrelatedtotheaccumulativetemperatureandothervegetation types are primary basis and indicatorfor vege-temperature parameters[26], The CI reflects the degreetation regionalization,but semi-natural and secondaryand its length of winter lowtemperatureand indicates wellvegetationare also important inregions with stronghumanthe relationship between vegetation/plant distribution andinfluences, e. g.the eastern part of China.He alsolimitingclimatifactors inamareas/964,stressed the roleof composition and distributionofflora inHong and Li[20] first adopted Kira's WI and CI to aindicating modern natural conditions.In areas with devel-quantitative study of relationship between vegetation andoped agriculture, distribution and growth of cultivatedclimate in China.They found that distribution of majorvegetation should be also considered as important indicatorevergreen broadleaf trees in Jiangsu Province could be ex-forvegetation regionalization.That isto say,he suggestedplainedbythesetwovariables.Inthemeantimerelatiorrthe same significance of zonal vegetation,flora charactershipsbetweenvegetationandmoistureandheatconditionsistics and distribution of cultivated vegetation.However,inNortheastChinawerealso discussedbyusingtheWithis viewpoint is difficult to practice.For this reason,heand cr(21,22] , Li[66] discussed the relationship betweendeemed that the existence of vegetation can mot separatethe vertical forest zones and the WI in the Qinghai-Xizangfromthephysiogeographicalconditions,andasanalternarPlateauFang and Yoda[26-29] and Fang/1] studied thetive, geologic, topologic, pedalogic and hydrologic condi-tions were also taken into consideration in his vegetationrelationship between vegetation distribution and WI valuesand defined the criterionfor division of the thermal zones,regionalizationscheme.Inrealityhisvegetationregioralizatinchm199]wremslybasedonclimaticandi.e.WI<15C monthfor the arctic (alpine)zone,15-50Cmonthforthesubarcticzone,50-90Cmonthtopologic patterns. The similar viewpoints were also holdforthetemperatezone,90-175Cmonthforthewarmin Editorial Committee for Vegetation of Chinal13]temperate zone, and >175 C month for the subtropical(2) Zonal vegetation is principal basis, and floraand tropical zone. Fang et a/(301 also discussed the verti-and distributionof cultivated vegetation are secondaryfac- 1994-2008 China Academic Journal Electronic Publishing House: All rights reserved.http://www.cnki.net
In addition , the Im was also used to document vege2 tation-climate relationship at regional scale. For example , Wang and Xiao[57 ]studied distribution of vegetation types along an Im gradient in the Loess Plateau. Ni[33 ] ana2 lyzed the relationship between distribution of evergreen broadleaf trees and the Im values. Holdridge’s life zone system was also widely applied in study of the vegetationclimate relationship in China[58 , 59 ]. However , because potential evapotranspiration rate ( PER) of the Holdridge system[7 ] is the ratio of annual biotemperature to annual precipitation that is analogous to the arid/ humidity index used in the early climate classification systems ( e. g. Koppen system) , its applicability is questioned. 1. 2. 2 Thermal indexes affecting distribution of veg2 etation types Mean temperature was adopted to identify the relationship between vegetation distribution and ther2 mal conditions during the early stages. It was also used in the regionalization of China’s vegetation and climate dur2 ing the early stages[60 - 62 ]. After the 1950s , effective ac2 cumulative temperature was used as thermal parameter for division of thermal climate[52 ] . Chen[54 ] adopted the num2 ber of days of effective accumulative temperature as the thermal index for division of climate zones. Recently , Zhou and Zhang[37 ] , based on Thornthwaite’s potential evapotranspiration (1948) , proposed a new index , re2 gional potential evapotranspiration ( RPE) to explore the climate-vegetation relationship , and applied it for the cli2 mate-vegetation classification of China for climate change study[38 ] . In China , Warmth Index ( WI) [8 , 9 ] and Coldness Index ( CI) [9 , 63 ] have been broadly used to explore the couplings between vegetation distribution and temperature conditions. The WI is a simplified effective accumulative temperature that uses monthly mean temperature , and is linearly related to the accumulative temperature and other temperature parameters[26 ] . The CI reflects the degree and its length of winter low temperature and indicates well the relationship between vegetation/ plant distribution and limiting climatic factors in warm areas[9 , 64 , 65 ] . Hong and Li[20 ] first adopted Kira’s WI and CI to a quantitative study of relationship between vegetation and climate in China. They found that distribution of major evergreen broadleaf trees in Jiangsu Province could be ex2 plained by these two variables. In the meantime , relation2 ships between vegetation and moisture and heat conditions in Northeast China were also discussed by using the WI and CI[21 , 22 ]. Li[66 ] discussed the relationship between the vertical forest zones and the WI in the Qinghai- Xizang Plateau. Fang and Yoda[26 - 29 ] and Fang[31 ] studied the relationship between vegetation distribution and WI values and defined the criterion for division of the thermal zones , i. e. WI < 15 ℃·month for the arctic (alpine) zone , 15 - 50 ℃·month for the subarctic zone , 50 - 90 ℃·month for the temperate zone , 90 - 175 ℃·month for the warm temperate zone , and > 175 ℃·month for the subtropical and tropical zone. Fang et al[30 ] also discussed the verti2 cal spectra and geographical differentiation of component genera along the 30°N in East Asia and found that the WI and CI values changed with continentality index , sug2 gesting that continentality index should be taken into con2 sideration in division of vegetation zone. Ni and Song[34 , 35 ] found that Kira’s indexes interpreted success2 fully distribution of evergreen broadleaf forests. 2 Major Principles , Bases and Schemes of China’s Vegetation Regionalization 2. 1 Principles and bases The horizontal zonality (latitudinal zonality and lon2 gitudinal zonality) and the vertical zonality are theoretical bases for vegetation regionalization , of which the horizon2 tal zonality is critical[19 , 67 ] . Among the horizontal zonali2 ty , the latitudinal zonality is caused by different solar ra2 diation and further thermal conditions on the earth surface from south to north , and thus indicates the zonation of thermal conditions , while longitude has no biological sig2 nificance and means only the geographical coordinate and time. The longitudinal zonality demonstrates the moisture difference from oceanic to continental climate caused by the oceanic and inland distribution. The latitudinal zonal2 ity of vegetation indicates the changes of heat , while the longitudinal zonality shows difference in the moisture ; combination of both is a basis for vegetation regionaliza2 tion[31 , 68 ]. In addition , the unique vegetation pattern of the Qinghai- Xizang Plateau should also be taken into con2 sideration in vegetation regionalization of China. There are three major viewpoints about the bases of vegetation re2 gionalization in China : (1) Characteristics of zonal vegetation , composition of flora , and distribution of cultivated vegetation are pri2 mary bases. HOU Xue- Yu (HOU Hsioh- Yu) is a repre2 sentative of this viewpoint. HOU[18 , 67 ] deemed that zonal vegetation types are primary basis and indicator for vege2 tation regionalization , but semi-natural and secondary vegetation are also important in regions with strong human influences , e. g. the eastern part of China. He also stressed the role of composition and distribution of flora in indicating modern natural conditions. In areas with devel2 oped agriculture , distribution and growth of cultivated vegetation should be also considered as important indicator for vegetation regionalization. That is to say , he suggested the same significance of zonal vegetation , flora character2 istics and distribution of cultivated vegetation. However , this viewpoint is difficult to practice. For this reason , he deemed that the existence of vegetation can not separate from the physiogeographical conditions , and as an alterna2 tive , geologic , topologic , pedalogic and hydrologic condi2 tions were also taken into consideration in his vegetation regionalization scheme. In reality , his vegetation region2 alization schemes[19 , 69 ] were mostly based on climatic and topologic patterns. The similar viewpoints were also hold in Editorial Committee for Vegetation of China[13 ] . (2) Zonal vegetation is principal basis , and flora and distribution of cultivated vegetation are secondary fac2 FANGJing- Yun et al : Vegetation-Climate Relationship and Its Application in the Division of Vegetation Zone in China 1107
1108植物学报ActaBotanica SinicaVol.44No.92002This viewpointwasholdbyXu/701,Lin[71]tivated or introduced species can expand more widely thantors.thernaturalrang7MverthedivnfZhou[72] and Song(73], Xu[70] pointed out that naturaltion for agricultural purpose should be included in agricul-vegetation and their secondary vegetation should bethetural regionalization which is quite different from the vege-chief indicator in vegetation regionalization.Cultivatedtation regionalization.vegetation canbe usedas reference.Flora analvsisisofIn addition, sme authors7%,7] stressed the imporsignificance, but attention to the ratios of species andgenera should be paid. Lin[71l argued that cultivated vegtance of the life-form of plants in vegetation regionalizartion,which is similarto theplant climate classificationetation and agricultural system can only be used as auxil-proposed by Raunkiaerl4]iary indicators. Zhou[72] pointed out that some researchers2.2Major schemes of vegetation regionalizationhad over-emphasized theroleof cultivatedand introducedplants in vegetation regionalization. Song(73] demonstratedSince the first scheme of vegetation regionalizationwas proposed by Li[14] , dozens of the schemes have beenthe importance of vegetation,particularly the natural vegdeveloped duringthe last70 years.Table1lists themajoretation and their secondary vegetation,and their floracomposition and climatic conditions should also be re-schemes during different periods.The history of studiesferred. But Song/74] emphasized the same importance ofon vegetation regionalization in China can also beviewedfrom the Table 1.vegetation types,flora and environmental conditions inFigures 1 and 2 illustrate the oldes(14] and thevegetation regionalization later.newest(85] map of vegetation regionalization in China. Of(3) Both vegetation and climate are critical toChina's vegetation regionalization. Fang/s] argued thatall the schemes listed in Table 1,that of Editorial Comrmitte for Vegetation of Chinal13] and Houl18,19] is theprimary vegetation is undoubtedly important in the vegetartion regionalization,but it is difficult to practice if onlymostcommonlyusedtodayinChina,Anotherschemeproinformation on vegetation is used because primary vegetarposed recently byEditorial CommitteeforVegetationAtlastion has almst been destroyed particularly in eastern Chi-of China[851 is almost the same as that by Editorial Comrna.He argued that the mst schemes of China's vegeta-mittee for Vegetation of China[13]tion regionalizationproposed sofar were substantially simrComparing these schemes, we found that the earlyilar to potential vegetation regionalization,thus basicallyschemes were mostly linked to administrative regions,these schemes were a kind of division of vegetation cli-which is obviously in contradict to geographical distriburmax.That isto say,climaticfactors,especiallylimitingtionofvegetationbecausedistributionofvegetationisirreclimate factors that delimit the vegetation distribution, arespectiveof administrative boundaries.In addition,princicritical to the vegetation division especially in the easternples and bases of the regionalization and relationshipsChinaamongregions are not consistent intheearlier schemesInfact,someclimaticindexes,inmostcases,sirAfter the 1980s,although divergence of views on thegle climate indices (e.g.,mean temperature and precip-name of thevegetation zones and the location of the vegeitation) often were used in the vegetation regionalization,tation boundaries still is found in different schemes,it hasalthough this was mot mentioned in their schemes[19,75]been commonly accepted that there are eight great vegetarAccording to such an understanding, Fangl68] suggestedtion regions in China,i.e. cold temperate needleleaf forthatzonal vegetation typesand their secondarytypes pro-est region,temperateneedleleaf and broadleaf mixed forvide a base for identifying the vegetation-climate relatiorrestregion,warmtemperatedeciduous broadleafforestreship of a region. Using the relationship and climate vari-gion,subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest region,tropi-ables of the region,vegetation regionalization can be easi-cal monsoon forest and rain forest region, temperately done.That is to say,both information on vegetationsteppe region,temperatedesert region and Qinghai-types and regional climate characteristics are of imporXizang Plateau high-cold vegetation region.tance.This not only reflects the essence of vegetation-In China , it is always argued whether the Qinghai-climate relationship,but also is easy topracticeXizang Plateau is handled as a separated vegetation re-Asfortheroleof flora in thedivisionof vegetationgion.There exist two completely different viewpoints ofZones, Fang(681 argued that it is mt critical. Division ofyes or no.From thegenesis of vegetation,it maybe rearvegetation zones is a large-scale classification of vegetationsonableto divided theQinghai-Xizang Plateau asa separlandscapeanddiffers from classificationofplantcommurrated vegetation region,because the special geographicalnities,theformeris controlledbymdern environmentalsettings of the Plateau have lead to the special vegetationconditions,and the later is primarily influenced bygeotypes and their distribution patterns.The hypothesis oflogical history.Therefore,compositionof flora is criticalthe plateau zonality strongly supports this viewpoint.toclassification of plantcommunities.Hbwever,from a viewpoint of the modern vegetationRegarding the role of cultivated vegetation,weclimate relationship, as a portion of China's vegetationagreed to the viewpoint claimed by Lin[71] and Zhou[72]thevegetation of the Plateau could mot be separated,bewho suggested that cultivated vegetation can only because the change of environmental factors is continupusserved as auxiliaryfactor and its importance in vegetationand thevegetation of theplateau is deeply related to thoseregionalization can not be over-emphasized,because cul-in surrounding areas,particularly in the northwestern part1994-2008 China Academic Journal Electronic Publishing House. All rights reserved.http:/www.cnki.net
tors. This viewpoint was hold by Xu[70 ] , Lin[71 ] , Zhou[72 ] and Song[73 ] . Xu[70 ] pointed out that natural vegetation and their secondary vegetation should be the chief indicator in vegetation regionalization. Cultivated vegetation can be used as reference. Flora analysis is of significance , but attention to the ratios of species and genera should be paid. Lin[71 ] argued that cultivated veg2 etation and agricultural system can only be used as auxil2 iary indicators. Zhou[72 ] pointed out that some researchers had over-emphasized the role of cultivated and introduced plants in vegetation regionalization. Song[73 ] demonstrated the importance of vegetation , particularly the natural veg2 etation and their secondary vegetation , and their flora composition and climatic conditions should also be re2 ferred. But Song[74 ] emphasized the same importance of vegetation types , flora and environmental conditions in vegetation regionalization later. (3 ) Both vegetation and climate are critical to China’s vegetation regionalization. Fang[68 ] argued that primary vegetation is undoubtedly important in the vegeta2 tion regionalization , but it is difficult to practice if only information on vegetation is used because primary vegeta2 tion has almost been destroyed particularly in eastern Chi2 na. He argued that the most schemes of China’s vegeta2 tion regionalization proposed so far were substantially sim2 ilar to potential vegetation regionalization , thus basically these schemes were a kind of division of vegetation cli2 max. That is to say , climatic factors , especially limiting climate factors that delimit the vegetation distribution , are critical to the vegetation division especially in the eastern China. In fact , some climatic indexes , in most cases , sin2 gle climate indices (e. g. , mean temperature and precip2 itation) often were used in the vegetation regionalization , although this was not mentioned in their schemes[19 , 75 ] . According to such an understanding , Fang[68 ] suggested that zonal vegetation types and their secondary types pro2 vide a base for identifying the vegetation-climate relation2 ship of a region. Using the relationship and climate vari2 ables of the region , vegetation regionalization can be easi2 ly done. That is to say , both information on vegetation types and regional climate characteristics are of impor2 tance. This not only reflects the essence of vegetationclimate relationship , but also is easy to practice. As for the role of flora in the division of vegetation zones , Fang[68 ] argued that it is not critical. Division of vegetation zones is a large- scale classification of vegetation landscape and differs from classification of plant commu2 nities , the former is controlled by modern environmental conditions , and the later is primarily influenced by geo2 logical history. Therefore , composition of flora is critical to classification of plant communities. Regarding the role of cultivated vegetation , we agreed to the viewpoint claimed by Lin[71 ] and Zhou[72 ] , who suggested that cultivated vegetation can only be served as auxiliary factor and its importance in vegetation regionalization can not be over-emphasized , because cul2 tivated or introduced species can expand more widely than their natural range[71 ] . Moreover , the division of vegeta2 tion for agricultural purpose should be included in agricul2 tural regionalization which is quite different from the vege2 tation regionalization. In addition , some authors[76 , 77 ] stressed the impor2 tance of the life-form of plants in vegetation regionaliza2 tion , which is similar to the plant climate classification proposed by Raunkiaer[4 ] . 2. 2 Major schemes of vegetation regionalization Since the first scheme of vegetation regionalization was proposed by Li[14 ] , dozens of the schemes have been developed during the last 70 years. Table 1 lists the major schemes during different periods. The history of studies on vegetation regionalization in China can also be viewed from the Table 1. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the oldest[14 ] and the newest[85 ] map of vegetation regionalization in China. Of all the schemes listed in Table 1 , that of Editorial Com2 mittee for Vegetation of China[13 ] and Hou[18 , 19 ] is the most commonly used today in China. Another scheme pro2 posed recently by Editorial Committee for Vegetation Atlas of China[85 ] is almost the same as that by Editorial Com2 mittee for Vegetation of China[13 ] . Comparing these schemes , we found that the early schemes were mostly linked to administrative regions , which is obviously in contradict to geographical distribu2 tion of vegetation because distribution of vegetation is irre2 spective of administrative boundaries. In addition , princi2 ples and bases of the regionalization and relationships among regions are not consistent in the earlier schemes. After the 1980s , although divergence of views on the name of the vegetation zones and the location of the vege2 tation boundaries still is found in different schemes , it has been commonly accepted that there are eight great vegeta2 tion regions in China , i. e. cold temperate needleleaf for2 est region , temperate needleleaf and broadleaf mixed for2 est region , warm temperate deciduous broadleaf forest re2 gion , subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest region , tropi2 cal monsoon forest and rain forest region , temperate steppe region , temperate desert region and QinghaiXizang Plateau high-cold vegetation region. In China , it is always argued whether the QinghaiXizang Plateau is handled as a separated vegetation re2 gion. There exist two completely different viewpoints of yes or no. From the genesis of vegetation , it may be rea2 sonable to divided the Qinghai- Xizang Plateau as a sepa2 rated vegetation region , because the special geographical settings of the Plateau have lead to the special vegetation types and their distribution patterns. The hypothesis of the plateau zonality strongly supports this viewpoint. However , from a viewpoint of the modern vegetationclimate relationship , as a portion of China’s vegetation the vegetation of the Plateau could not be separated , be2 cause the change of environmental factors is continuous , and the vegetation of the plateau is deeply related to those in surrounding areas , particularly in the northwestern part 1108 植物学报 Acta Botanica Sinica Vol. 44 No. 9 2002
1109FANGJingYun et al:Vegetation-Climate Relationship and Its Application in the Division of Vegetation Zone in ChinaTable1Major schemes of vegetation regionalization in ChinaAuhorMajor bases and variables usedMajor zones or regionsFive goups: evergreen needeleaf forest , deciduous broadleaf forest , everLit4)Annual mean temperature and annual precipitationgreen broadleaf forest , steppe , and desertTwenty-six regions in the original scheme are combined into 1l regions in thispaper (numbers in parentheses indicate the number of regions in the originalscheme ) : Northeast China forest region (12), Northeast China steppe re-gion(13),North China forest region (14),Loess Plateau steppe regionHhanglis)Vegetation types(15) , Middle and East China forest region (16, 17) , Southwest China For-est Region (18- 21) , South Chna Forest Region (22 - 23), Steppe Region(2 - 4) , Desert and Gobi Region (1) , Qinghai-Xizang Plateau Region (5 -11) , and Aznal vegetation regon (24 - 26)Thirteen regions:subalpine needleleaf forest region,subold needleleafforestregion, cold temperate mixed forest region, temperate summer geen forestregion, warm temperate mixed forest region, subtropical evergreen forest re-Qian et ari7s)Vegetation typesgion, tropical and subtropical monsoon forest region, dry desert and semidesert region, plateau frozen desert region, steppe and grassland region,plateau grassland and scrub region , arid mountainous fores-steppe region,steppe and desert complex regionTwelve regions: Da Hinggan Mbuntain needleleaf forest region, ChanghaiMbuntain and Xiao Hinggan Mbuntain needleleaf and deciduous broadleaf forest region, North China deciduous broadleaf forest region, Northeast Chinaand Jin-Shaan- Can forest-steppe and steppe region, Middle China decidupusand evergreen broadleaf mixed forest region, Middle South Southeast-SouthrHbu et ar179]Vegetation soil relationshipswest China evergreen broadleaf forest region, South China tropical monsoonforest region, Southvest China alpine needleleaf forest and meadbw region,Nei Mngpl- Gansu dry steppe region , Meng Xin-Qing desertified steppe andsteppe region, Northvest China alpine needleleaf forest and steppe region,Qinghai-Xizang Plateau high mountains cold desert and scrubby meadow re-gionFifteen regions:Da Hingan Mbuntain needleleaf forest region, easternMandchuria needleleaf-broadleaf mixed forest region , Northeast China forest-steppe and steppe region, deciduous broadleaf forest and forest-steppe region, deciduus-evergreen broadeaf mixed forest region, decidupus forest reQian el al(8)]Vegetation typegion, tropical mnsoon forest region, Southvest China muntainous vegetation region, western muntainous needeleaf forest region, alpine steppe-meadowsrub region,plateau cold desert and upper reach of the River basinregion, Nei Mbngpl dry steppe region, semi-desert and desert regionThirteen regions : Da Hinggan Mbuntain larch forest region, Changbai Mourtain needleleaf-broadleaf mixed forest region, North China pine and oak forest region, Middle China tropical evergreen forest region, Hainan and SouthVegetation types, and as well distribution of plantLiu e a/181, 2]Chima Sea Isands tropical evergreen forest region, Qinghai-Xizang Plateautaxa and climatic conditionsdesert-needleleaf forest complex region, Nei Mongpl-Xinjiang desert region,GansuNei Mbngpl steppe-semi desert region, Altay needleleaf forest region,Tianshan spruce forest regionThree regions and seven zones: 1. Eastern China humid forest region: temThree macro-vegetation regions based on relief ofperate needleleaf fores-needleleaf broadleaf mixed forest region-decidupusmacro-topography and monsoon climate; 7vegeta-Committee for Naturalbroadleaf forest zone, subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest zone, tropicaltion zones were divided according to zonal vegeta-Regionalization/83]monsoon forest and rain forest zone;2. Qinghai-Xizang high cold plateaution types, and further divided into subzones forzone : subalpine needleleaf forest zone, meadow- steppe-scrub zone; 3. Neieach zoneMongol- Xinjiang dry steppe and desert region : dry steppe zone , desert zoneThree zones and ten regons; I, Forest zones: cold-temperate needleleaf forest region, temperate needleleaf-broadleaf mixed decidupus forest region,wam tenperate deciduous broadeaf forest region, subtropical evergreen forInstituteofBotany ,est region, tropical mnsoon forest and rain forest region, equatorial coralThe Chinese AcademyZonal vegetation typesreef vegetation region; 2. Seppe zone and alpine mountainous scrub-mead-of Seiences(sa)]owsteppe zone: temperate and wam temperate steppe region, high coldmountainous scrub and meadowsteppe region; 3.Desert zone:temperate-wam temperate desert region, high cold desert regionD1994-2008 China Academic Journal Electronic Publishing House. All rights reserved.:http://www.cnki.net
Table 1 Major schemes of vegetation regionalization in China Author Major bases and variables used Major zones or regions Li [14 ] Annual mean temperature and annual precipitation Five groups : evergreen needleleaf forest , deciduous broadleaf forest , ever2 green broadleaf forest , steppe , and desert Huang[16 ] Vegetation types Twenty- six regions in the original scheme are combined into 11 regions in this paper (numbers in parentheses indicate the number of regions in the original scheme ) : Northeast China forest region (12) , Northeast China steppe re2 gion (13) , North China forest region (14) , Loess Plateau steppe region (15) , Middle and East China forest region (16 , 17) , Southwest China For2 est Region (18 - 21) , South China Forest Region (22 - 23) , Steppe Region (2 - 4) , Desert and Gobi Region (1) , Qinghai- Xizang Plateau Region (5 - 11) , and Azonal vegetation region (24 - 26) Qian et al [78 ] Vegetation types Thirteen regions : subalpine needleleaf forest region , subcold needleleaf forest region , cold temperate mixed forest region , temperate summer green forest region , warm temperate mixed forest region , subtropical evergreen forest re2 gion , tropical and subtropical monsoon forest region , dry desert and semi desert region , plateau frozen desert region , steppe and grassland region , plateau grassland and scrub region , arid mountainous forest- steppe region , steppe and desert complex region Hou et al [79 ] Vegetation- soil relationships Twelve regions : Da Hinggan Mountain needleleaf forest region , Changbai Mountain and Xiao Hinggan Mountain needleleaf and deciduous broadleaf for2 est region , North China deciduous broadleaf forest region , Northeast China and Jin-Shaan- Gan forest- steppe and steppe region , Middle China deciduous and evergreen broadleaf mixed forest region , Middle South-Southeast-South2 west China evergreen broadleaf forest region , South China tropical monsoon forest region , Southwest China alpine needleleaf forest and meadow region , Nei Mongol- Gansu dry steppe region , Meng- Xin-Qing desertified steppe and steppe region , Northwest China alpine needleleaf forest and steppe region , Qinghai- Xizang Plateau high mountains cold desert and scrubby meadow re2 gion Qian et al [80 ] Vegetation type Fifteen regions : Da Hinggan Mountain needleleaf forest region , eastern Mandchuria needleleaf-broadleaf mixed forest region , Northeast China foreststeppe and steppe region , deciduous broadleaf forest and forest- steppe re2 gion , deciduous-evergreen broadleaf mixed forest region , deciduous forest re2 gion , tropical monsoon forest region , Southwest China mountainous vegeta2 tion region , western mountainous needleleaf forest region , alpine steppemeadow- srub region , plateau cold desert and upper reach of the River basin region , Nei Mongol dry steppe region , semi-desert and desert region Liu et al [81 , 82 ] Vegetation types , and as well distribution of plant taxa and climatic conditions Thirteen regions : Da Hinggan Mountain larch forest region , Changbai Moun2 tain needleleaf-broadleaf mixed forest region , North China pine and oak for2 est region , Middle China tropical evergreen forest region , Hainan and South China Sea Islands tropical evergreen forest region , Qinghai- Xizang Plateau desert-needleleaf forest complex region , Nei Mongol- Xinjiang desert region , Gansu-Nei Mongol steppe- semi desert region , Altay needleleaf forest region , Tianshan spruce forest region Committee for Natural Regionalization[83 ] Three macro-vegetation regions based on relief of macro-topography and monsoon climate ; 7 vegeta2 tion zones were divided according to zonal vegeta2 tion types , and further divided into subzones for each zone Three regions and seven zones : 1. Eastern China humid forest region : tem2 perate needleleaf forest-needleleaf broadleaf mixed forest region-deciduous broadleaf forest zone , subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest zone , tropical monsoon forest and rain forest zone ; 2. Qinghai- Xizang high cold plateau zone : subalpine needleleaf forest zone , meadow- steppe- scrub zone ; 3. Nei Mongol- Xinjiang dry steppe and desert region : dry steppe zone , desert zone Institute of Botany , The Chinese Academy of Sciences[84 ] Zonal vegetation types Three zones and ten regions : 1. Forest zones : cold-temperate needleleaf for2 est region , temperate needleleaf-broadleaf mixed deciduous forest region , warm temperate deciduous broadleaf forest region , subtropical evergreen for2 est region , tropical monsoon forest and rain forest region , equatorial coral reef vegetation region ; 2. Steppe zone and alpine mountainous scrub-mead2 ow- steppe zone : temperate and warm temperate steppe region , high cold mountainous scrub and meadow- steppe region ; 3. Desert zone : temperatewarm temperate desert region , high cold desert region FANGJing- Yun et al : Vegetation-Climate Relationship and Its Application in the Division of Vegetation Zone in China 1109