Population structure and regeneration constraints of Magnolia zenii (Magnoliaceae) in Baohua Mountain, Jiangsu, China: Insights for conservation strategies

This study evaluates the population structure and regeneration dynamics of <i>M. zenii</i> using data from field surveys conducted in 2001 and 2024. Our findings indicate a substantial increase in the total population size from 34 to 115 individuals and a broadening of the size-class distribution. However, persistent gaps in recruitment, particularly the absence of individuals in the smallest diameter class (< 5 cm), highlight critical reproductive and establishment constraints. Factors limiting regeneration include poor seedling establishment due to reproductive inefficiencies, intense competition from <i>Phoebe sheareri</i> and <i>Phyllostachys edulis</i> and anthropogenic impacts associated with tourism management. We propose a multi-faceted conservation strategy emphasising enhanced reproductive management, mitigation of competitive pressure and science-based tourism control to promote sustainable population recovery. This study provides a comprehensive framework for addressing regeneration constraints and providing information for long-term conservation policies for <i>M. zenii</i> and other endangered species with similar ecological challenges.