Abstract: Based on the data from 380 plots over China, the productivity distribution patterns of Pinus tabulaeformis forest are indicated in large scale. Combined with the knowledge of leaf area index distribution and plant geography, the mathematical models for the relations of the productivity to the hydrothermal and geographical factors are established. Within the normal range of P. tabulaeformis distribution (annual mean temperature 2～14℃, annual precipitation 400/300mm～700/900mm), the leaf area index was exponentially and negatively related to the annual mean temperature, which may be a mechanism for the water stress adaptation of P. tabulaeformis forest.

Key words: Pinus tabulaeformis forest, Productivity, Distribution pattern, carbon storage, Gansu Province, carbon density, plantation, carbon sequestration potential