Structure and composition of tree species in sub-montane forests of Mount Endut, Banten

Abstract

Study of forest structure and tree species composition in the sub-montane forest of Mount Endut, Banten was carried out by using a plot method. Four plots of 10 m × 1 000 m (totaling 4 ha) ranging from 1 000 m to 1 297 m above sea level (top of Mount Endut) at North, South, East and West sides of Mount Endut were established. The objective of the study was to assess composition, structure, and plant diversity of this highest point in Mount Endut which is a part of Gunung Halimun Salak National Park. Data of trees having diameter breast height ≥ 10 cm was recorded for species, diameter, and height. Soil samples were taken for macro-nutrient content relating to ecological preferences of dominant plant species. Result shows that the studied forest on north slope plot consisted of 46 species belonging to 33 genera and 23 families, south (58 species, 35 genera, and 23 families), east (46 species, 34 genera, and 23 families), and west (40 species, 30 genera, and 20 families). Trees which had highest Important Values occupied the sub-montane forest of Mount Endut were Castanopsis acuminata, Schima wallichii, Quercus lineata, Eurya acuminata, Platea excelsa, and Syzygium clavimyrthus. Among the important families which occupied the sub-montane forest of Mount Endut were Fagaceae, Theaceae, Clusiaceae, Myrtaceae, and Clusiaceae.