A dataset of species composition and biomass in successional stages of Tiantong typical evergreen broad-leaved forest (2008–2017)

As a basic properties of forest vegetation, forest succession law is the basis of understanding forest community, managing forest and utilizing forest rationally. Typical evergreen broad-leaved forest is a zonal vegetation in the subtropical area of east China. The existing vegetation is mostly in different secondary succession stages due to human and natural disturbance. Plant species composition is an important indicator of the long-term terrestrial ecosystem observation of National Ecosystem Research Network of China (CNERN). It affects the biogeochemical cycle, productivity, carbon sequestration, biodiversity and ecosystem services of forest ecosystems. According to CNERN monitoring standards, Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station finished three investigations at three succession plots and established a dataset on species composition during 2008 and 2017. The dataset included species name, abundance, mean diameter and biomass of woody plants in the plot. The species composition database provides critical data for in-depth studies of forest species diversity, structure and function under succession or environment change, and can support forest management and ecosystem service evaluation in this region.