Plant Diversity, Traditional Utilization, and Community-Based Conservation of the Small-Scale Nong Sakae Community Forest in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate plant diversity, traditional utilization, and create a web-based application for sustainable community-based utilization management of the small-scale Nong Sakae Community Forest, Dan Chak sub-district, Non Thai district, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Our results revealed 29 plant species belonging to 21 genera. Notably, the Fabaceae family dominated the forest and comprised seven species, including two recognized as invasive species. Diversity indices revealed a moderate level of species diversity, with Shannon–Weaver (H’) and Simpson's diversity indices at 1.7844 and 0.6076, respectively. Species richness indices involving Margalef and Menhinick were 4.3805 and 1.1869, respectively, whereas evenness was 0.5414. The most ecologically significant species was Vietnamosasa ciliata A. Camus, which exhibited the highest importance value index (IVI) at 63.4321. Furthermore, the community forest served as a sustenance for the local community for food, medicinal herbs, and timber, emphasizing its significance in supporting their livelihoods. However, this forest has faced encroachment, forest fires, and littering. A web-based mapping system has made forest information more available and understandable, enabling informed decision making and effective forest management. This study offers valuable insights into biodiversity and ecosystem functions in the Nong Sakae Community Forest, emphasizing the need for collaboration and effective policy development in conservation efforts.