Study of species associations in native habitats of the genus Dacrydium Lamb. (Podocarpaceae) in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

The tropical coniferous genus Dacrydium Lamb. is occurring with some species in various habitat types in Kalimantan, Indonesia. So far four species are recorded for that area. Even though the species are considered globally as Endangered and Least Threatened species by the IUCN, in Central Kalimantan the genus is under threat from pressures related to logging, fire and land conversion. Locally known as Alau, this genus prospers in a range of habitats from heath to deep-peat swamp forests in Central Kalimantan. Data from field plots across four sites in Central Kalimantan are used to compare variations in habitat and species composition where Alau trees are present. The results of the analysis show the wide range of habitat structure as well as species diversity where Alau tends to thrive. The characterization of these sites may be helpful in protecting and conserving Alau forest areas under social forestry and local forest management resource use plans.