Ecogeological description of Sanyang Gotjawal, Jeju Island, Korea

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Gotjawal forest on Jeju Island is characterized by uneven topography that developed as a result of freezing-thawing weathering process and irregular substrates caused by numerous lava-flow collapses. Sanyang Gotjawal, located in southwest of Jeju Island, is a well-developed forest with a long history. In addition to photographs, there is a need for a good way to describe the unique features of Gotjawal, including its geology and vegetation. METHODS AND RESULTS: We illustrated the area's natural features using Clip Studio Paint 1.12.0. To reveal its complexity, we separated the vegetation and geological features in the illustrations. CONCLUSION(S): We drew a cross-section of Gotjawal's unique layers, including lava flows. In addition to an eco-geological approach, we described the dominant vegetation and geological characteristics of the three forest layers (trees, shrubs, and herbs) in Gotjawal.