Spatial distribution, age structure, and the impact of habitat conditions on Myristica teysmannii population in the Sempu Island and Malang protected forest, Indonesia: implication for conservation

Abstract

ABSTRACT To preserve biodiversity, conservation efforts, particularly for endangered species, such as Myristica teysmannii, should be implemented. Myristica teysmannii is native to the Java and Sempu Islands, Indonesia. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the spatial distribution, age structure, and habitat characteristics of M. teysmannii on the Sempu Island and in the Banyu Meneng, Malang protected forest, Indonesia. This exploratory study was conducted through visual encounter survey and plotting methods. We explored 41 and 26 plots in the Sempu Island and nature reserves of Malang, respectively. Myristica teysmannii was found in selected geographical locations, i.e. slopes and near the shorelines of the sea. The nature reserves of Malang contained 73 adult trees, 16 young trees, 45 saplings, and 99 seedlings, and the Sempu Island contained 146 adult trees, 25 young trees, 59 saplings, and 99 seedlings. The distribution and growth of M. teysmannii were influenced by biotic and abiotic factors. Myristica teysmannii was found in association with the detritivore population, which feeds on plant detritus. The results of the present study suggest that the M. teysmannii populations on the Sempu Island and in the nature reserves of Malang, Indonesia, remain uncritical. Nevertheless, the endangered status of M. teysmannii should be considered to maintain and conserve its biodiversity, particularly given the lack of reports on the population structure in other areas on the Java Island or the possibility of environmental destruction.