Extinction risk to the endemic trees of Papua New Guinea

Abstract

Societal Impact StatementPapua New Guinea has a diverse tree flora. Now for the first time we know that 460 (36%) of its endemic tree species are threatened with extinction in the wild. These trees require immediate conservation action, through a variety of methods. Protection of trees is essential in Papua New Guinea as many people across the country rely on them for their livelihoods. Additionally, the extinction of these species would mean the loss of unique biodiversity. With the majority of forest cover still remaining in Papua New Guinea, it presents an almost unique opportunity to save tree diversity at a large scale and should therefore be at the forefront of the conservation agenda.Summary Papua New Guinea is one of the world's most tree diverse countries, with over 1,200 endemic tree species. However, forests within the country face a range of threats but the impact of these threats on individual tree species has yet to be studied. Without identifying which species are threatened, where they are and their major threats it is not possible to effectively prioritise conservation actions for the trees of Papua New Guinea. The Global Tree Assessment for Papua New Guinea produced International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List assessments for over 90% of tree species endemic to Papua New Guinea. The assessments compiled information on extinction risk, major threats, conservation and research needs for the country's tree flora. Four hundred and sixty tree species are threatened with extinction, including 143 Critically Endangered species. This is 36% of the country's endemic tree flora. The majority of tree species are threatened by annual‐perennial non‐timber crop farming, logging and establishment of wood and pulp plantations. The change in land use instigated by these threats causes lowland tropical/sub‐tropical forest to be the most threatened habitat types for trees. To protect Papua New Guinea's diverse tree flora, a range of conservation activities are required. Both in situ and ex situ conservation efforts, which are species specific, are needed and activities should be supported on a local, national and international level with continued and expanded collaboration between international NGOs and botanists and specialists working in Papua New Guinea.