Anatomical observation and characterization on basic properties of Agarwood (Gaharu) as an Appendix II CITES

Abstract

High demand for Agarwood (Gaharu) from natural forest causes the decreasing of their population. In 2004, Indonesia proposed that all natural Agarwood from Gyrinops and Aquilaria generas should be included in the Appendix II CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) list, which could be internationally traded but in certain quota. This paper deals with anatomical observation and characterization on basic properties to find out the difference between Gyrinops and Aquilaria for classification and standardization. Explorations have been conducted at community forests in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara for Gyrinops versteegii (Gilg) Domke; while A. malaccensis Benth., A. microcarpa Baill., A. beccariana Tiegh., and Aquilaria sp. were extracted from Sangau and Ketapang Regencies, West Kalimantan. Wood samples were taken by drilling the trees stem by using a Drill tool to get a pencil-shaped sample of about 20 cm in length and 0.5 cm in diameter. Another sample in form of chips contain bark and wood were also extracted. The results showed that the average specific gravity of Gyrinops and Aquilaria was between 0.31 – 0.35, therefore it was included in the Strength Class IV. Chemical components of injured G. versteegii contained 50.74% holocelullose, 30.50% α-cellulose, 31.98% lignin, and 16.69% extractives. The composition of ray cells in G. versteegii was more complex than Aquilaria generas.