Ecological impact and community perception of Phoenix acaulis (Roxb.) management in Shorea robusta (Garten. f.) forest of Udayapur district, Nepal

Abstract

Phoenix acaulis (Roxb.), a common understory shrub in Nepal's Chure region, has remained largely understudied until now. Therefore, this study aims to examine the ecological impact of P. acaulis on Shorea robusta (Gaertn. f.) forest properties and to explore associated community perceptions in S. robusta forest of Udayapur district, Nepal. Stratified random sampling was adopted for this study where P. acaulis density (high, low and absent) was considered as basis of stratification. Altogether, 45 rectangular plots of 10 m x 10 m area (15 each category) were established for regeneration survey and soil sample collection (up to 30 cm). Soil quality index (SQI) method was used for soil quality assessment using indicators on the basis of prior studies conducted in Nepal. Using random sampling, a total of 52 households from the community forest user group were interviewed to gather their insights on the perceived effects of P. acaulis and its management. Highest S. robusta seedling and sapling density was observed in P. acaulis absent area (1132 ± 9.65 ha⁻¹ and 60 ± 0.63 ha⁻¹) where lowest in P. acaulis dense area (548 ± 7.4 ha⁻¹ and 4 ± 0.2 ha⁻¹). Similarly, higher SQI was in areas with high P. acaulis density (0.49) followed by low (0.45) and absent area (0.39). Most respondents advocated for removing P. acaulis from the forest, highlighting significant concerns among stakeholders. Our study suggests a positive impact P. acaulis on soil quality but indicates a negative impact on S. robusta regeneration. Therefore, further research to explore management strategies that balance the positive impact on soil quality with the observed negative influence on regeneration in P. acaulis presence areas is recommended.