Abstract
PurposeIn this paper, the authors show that ecological restoration potential through natural regeneration of degraded tropical rainforest is possible. This is significant because at present most of the tropical forest of the world, including of Bangladesh, are degraded.Design/methodology/approachRegeneration status of Chunati Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS) was assessed through stratified random sampling method using sample plots of 5 × 5 m in size covering 269 sample plots.FindingsA total of 3,256 regenerating seedlings/saplings of 105 species belonging to 35 families were recorded from CWS. From regenerating tree species, maximum (37.83) family importance value (FIV) index was found for Euphorbiaceae followed by Myrtaceae (18.03). Maximum importance value index (IVI) was found for Aporosa wallichii (21.62) followed by Grewia nervosa (16.41). Distribution of seedlings into different height classes of regenerating tree species was also calculated.Practical implicationsForest scientists are working to find out the best nature-based solution for ecological restoration of tropical rainforests to attain climate resilient ecosystem in a sustainable way. Tropical rain forest has huge plant diversity, and we find that ecological restoration is possible through natural regeneration from its rich soil seed bank. Natural regeneration is the best nature-based solution for sustainable management of the forest.Social implicationsThe authors believe that the findings presented in our paper will appeal to the forest and environmental scientists. The findings will allow readers to understand degraded tropical hill forest ecosystem and its management strategy.Originality/value The authors believe that this manuscript will give a clear picture about degraded tropical hill forest ecosystem and its genetic composition, diversity and soil seed bank status to apply appropriate management strategy.
Highlights
Natural regeneration is essential for preservation and maintenance of biodiversity in natural forests (Hossain et al, 2004; Rahman et al, 2011)
Natural regeneration status in Chunati Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS) A total of 3,256 seedlings (4,842 seedling ha-1) of 105 species representing 35 families were recorded from CWS (Table 3)
Highest (26.50%) family relative density (Fd) was represented by Euphorbiaceae family followed by Myrtaceae (11.43%) family (Figure 2)
Summary
Natural regeneration is essential for preservation and maintenance of biodiversity in natural forests (Hossain et al, 2004; Rahman et al, 2011). Knowledge about the pattern of natural regeneration is important to answer the basic question of forest management (Hossain et al, 1999). Wyatt-Smith (1987) mentioned information on species composition of a forest is essential for its wise management in terms of economic value and natural regeneration potential. The strategies by which plants regenerate are soil seed banks, seedling banks and vegetative parts (Grime, 1979; Garwood, 1989; Barnes et al, 1998). Assessment of soil seed banks and population structure has practical importance in forest conservation and management. Database of the regeneration status of the plant species is important for developing management strategies and setting priorities for the wise management of the wildlife sanctuary
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