Abstract: Parrotia subaequalis, endemic to China, is a rare tree species and is ranked as one of I-class endangered species under the legal protection of country. By applying the contiguous grid quadrats and typical plots, the population structure and population pattern of P.subaequalis from Longwangshan Nature Reserve, Zhejiang Province were studied. The results showed that its population size was relatively small, but the characteristics of sprouting were notable in the wild. There were six age classes in different populations of P.subaequalis, which had fewer seedlings and young trees, and more middle-aged individuals, compared with its mature individuals. Its population had weak ability to regenerate, and was generally of a declining type in terms of population structure. Within all the three sites in Longwangshan, the populations were generally of contagious distribution type, and this could be closely correlated to the growing habitats and reproductive mode of P.subaequalis. Additionally, some suggestions concerning ecological protection of this species were put forward.

Key words: Parrotia subaequalis, population structure, distribution pattern, Longwangshan Nature Reserve