AGROFORESTRY SYSTEMS IN CHINA - A SURVEY AND CLASSIFICATION

We classified agroforestry systems in China by system type and system unit. A system type is defined as a homogenous group whose major components are closely related economically, socially, and environmentally. A system unit is defined as a basic functional unit that reveals the specific biological relationships among the major components and requires similar management strategies and techniques. Seven system types and 26 system units are recognized in China. Among them, agrosilvofishery, silvomedicinal and agrosilvomedicinal systems have values unique to Chinese. Each system type is discussed in the context of its geographical extent in China, main species components, and system units. © 1990 Kluwer Academic Publishers.