Shorea Javanica Research Articles

Effect of Growing Media and NPK Fertilizer on Growth of Shorea Javanica

Cibodas botanical garden – LIPI had compost product based on organic waste material (litter, grass, twigs, and fruit) which were collected from garden. Compost was produced by two methods : using katalek bioactivator and natural compost without bioactivator. Utilization of compost as growing media at nursery unit botanical garden was not optimal. The objective of this research was to determine the ability of compost from botanical garden as a growing media for seedling collection at Cibodas botanical garden. This study was conducted using a Randomized Block Design (RAB) with six treatments and four replications using Shorea javanica as plants indicator. Three types of growing media (top soil, natural compost and katalek compost) were applied for the treatment with the addition or non addition of NPK fertilizer. However, control treatment was made from top soil without addition of NPK. The data showed that both natural compost and katalek compost were demonstrated better result than top soil growing media. Katalek compost without addition of NPK fertilizer gave significantly different result at enhancement of plant height, leaf number, and dry weight if compared with control.

Effect of Growing Media and NPK Fertilizer on Growth of Shorea Javanica

Title : Effect of Growing Media and NPK Fertilizer on Growth of Shorea Javanica. Cibodas botanical garden – LIPI had compost product based on organic waste material (litter, grass, twigs, and fruit) which were collected from garden. Compost was produced by two methods : using katalek bioactivator and natural compost without bioactivator. Utilization of compost as growing media at nursery unit botanical garden was not optimal. The objective of this research was to determine the ability of compost from botanical garden as a growing media for seedling collection at Cibodas botanical garden. This study was conducted using a Randomized Block Design (RAB) with six treatments and four replications using Shorea javanica as plants indicator. Three types of growing media (top soil, natural compost and katalek compost) were applied for the treatment with the addition or non addition of NPK fertilizer. However, control treatment was made from top soil without addition of NPK. The data showed that both natural compost and katalek compost were demonstrated better result than top soil growing media. Katalek compost without addition of NPK fertilizer gave significantly different result at enhancement of plant height, leaf number, and dry weight if compared with control.

Genetic diversity, population structure and conservation implication of the endemic Sumatran lowland dipterocarp tree species (Shorea javanica)

Shorea javanica is an economically important dammar-producing tree, endemic to tropical lowland forest in Sumatra and Java, Indonesia. Total population size, however, is very limited and endangered. We sequenced three non-coding regions of chloroplast DNA and three nuclear genes, and genotyped seven microsatellite loci in six populations representing the current species distribution. There was no variation in the chloroplast DNA regions, except for one unique indel polymorphism. Mean silent site nucleotide diversity across three nuclear regions was 0.0011, which is much smaller than those of common dipterocarp species. Expected mean population heterozygosity in the microsatellite loci was 0.423, and the total heterozygosity was 0.477. These results show genetic variation in S. javanica is extremely low at both population and species levels. Genetic differentiation among populations was moderate (FST = 0.064 for nuclear genes and FST {ENA} = 0.076 for microsatellite loci), but this result is essentially caused by one isolated population in Oku. We suggest that conservation efforts should focus on promoting connectivity and augmenting population size across the species range. Ex-situ conservation should also be considered to provide insurance against catastrophic events and to facilitate for reintroduction. Key words: Shorea javanica, repong dammar, chloroplast DNA, nuclear genes, microsatellite markers.

Contrasting cpDNA Variation in Two Indonesian Endemic Lowland Dipterocarp Species and Implications for their Conservation

Shorea javanica (Dipterocarpaceae) is an economically important dammar-producing tree, endemic to the tropical lowland forests of Sumatra and Java, Indonesia. However, its total population size is limited and this species is endangered. Shorea selanica is one of the very limited numbers of species in genus Shorea (Dipterocarpaceae) that grows in Wallacean. This species can be found only in the central part of the Moluccas, eastern Indonesia. Six populations (77 individuals in total) were sampled for S. javanica while three populations (27 individuals in total) were sampled for S. selanica. To determine genetic variation and population structure, three non-coding chloroplast DNA regions of trnL-trnF, psbC-trnS, trnS-trnfM and two non-coding chloroplast DNA regions of trnT-trnL, trnL-trnF were sequenced from S. javanica and S. selanica, respectively. There was no variation in the chloroplast DNA regions from S. javanica, except for one unique indel polymorphism. Nucleotide diversity within S. selanica populations ranged from 0 (Seram) to 0.00044 (Buru), with a pooled value of 0.00041. S. javanica was determined as having no population structure while high levels of genetic differentiation was found among populations of S. selanica (F(ST) = 0.702). Different pattern of population structure among the two species in this study suggested the need for distinct management and conservation strategies for each species. For S. javanica, connectivity within and among populations, including augmentation of population size across the species range, should be promoted. For S. selanica, an in situ conservation plan that defines core areas completely free from perturbation within each population is necessary.

Antitumor‐Promoting Effects and Cytotoxic Activities of Dammar Resin Triterpenoids and Their Derivatives

Nineteen known triterpenoids, 1-19, and one known sesquiterpenoid, 20, were isolated from dammar resin obtained from Shorea javanica K. & V. (Dipterocarpaceae). One of the acidic triterpenoids, dammarenolic acid (1), was converted to fourteen derivatives, namely, an alcohol, 21, an aldehyde, 22, and twelve L-amino acid conjugates, 23-34. Compounds 1-34 were examined for their inhibitory effects on the induction of Epstein-Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) in Raji cells, a known primary screening test for antitumor promoters. All of the compounds tested, except for compounds 4, 5, 12-14, 16, and 17, showed inhibitory effects against EBV-EA activation with potencies either comparable with or stronger than that of beta-carotene, a known natural antitumor promoter. In addition, (20S)-20-hydroxy-3,4-secodammara-4(28),24-dien-3-al (22) exhibited inhibitory effects on skin tumor promotion in an in vivo two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis test based on 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) as initiator, and with TPA as promoter. Furthermore, evaluation of the cytotoxic activities of compounds 1-34 against human cancer cell lines showed that reduction (i.e., 21 and 22) or conjugation with L-amino acids (i.e., 23-34) of compound 1 enhanced the cytotoxicity against human melanoma cell line CRL1579.

Co-occurring tree species show contrasting sensitivity to ENSO-related droughts in planted dipterocarp forests

This study explores the diversity in sensitivity to drought of moist tropical forest tree species. Yearly tree growth records collected over a ten-year period in two one-hectare 70-year-old damar agroforest plots in Sumatra are analysed. These agroforests are mixed tree plantations, dominated by Shorea javanica K. & V., a dipterocarp tree cultivated and tapped for its commercially valuable resin (damar). Many indigenous fruit tree species grow in these agroforests, as well as timber tree species originating from the nearby natural forest. During the census period the multi-species stands were subjected to three El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO)-related droughts (1994, 1997 and 2002). At the tree community level, these droughts were associated with a marked decrease in radial stem growth. Multilevel modelling was used to explore the relative contribution of species, tree size and individual tree characteristics to the observed response to drought. All tree species appeared to be sensitive to drought but the amplitude of the response varied significantly across species. Predicted species mean decrease in stem radial growth rate on drought years (i.e. years with 6 months with less than 50 mm/month rainfall) ranged from less than 5% to more than 80%. Shared species were ranked consistently between plots indicating that the results were robust. Stem diameter significantly affected tree sensitivity to drought in two species only, but in opposite ways: in S. javanica, larger trees appeared to be less sensitive while the opposite was true for Lansium domesticum, an abundant fruit tree. Individual tree sensitivity to drought contributed significantly albeit to a small extent to the overall response to drought. This individual tree effect did not show any pattern of spatial correlation and hence could not be related to topographic features. It is likely to reflect the individual's unique history and genotype.

The Role of Traditional Agroforests in the Conservation of Rain Forest Bird Diversity in Sumatra

Bird community composition and structure were compared among three different types of traditionally managed agroforests and the nearby primary forests in southwestern Sumatra during the breeding season. The agroforests were dominated respectively by rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis), damar (Shorea javanica), and durian (Durio zibethinus) and were managed for cash crops (latex, resin, fruits, spices, coffee and timber). Although planted on formerly clearfelled and cultivated areas, these agroforests were highly diversified and structurally complex. Species relative abundance was obtained in 112 random samples of 50 individuals within limited census areas. The species were classified according to size, main diet, and observed habitat use. Eighty‐three percent of all the regional pool of resident species were recorded at least once (excluding aerial, nocturnal, and aquatic species). Species richness, diversity, and equitability were all significantly lower (12% to 62% less) in every agroforest than in the primary forest, and the coefficients of similarity between the natural and managed forest communities were low (0.43–0.55). Less than half the lowland primary forest species known from western Sumatra were recorded in at least one agroforest. Among the 216 species occurring in samples, 56% significantly decreased in or disappeared from agroforests, whereas only 22% appeared or increased. The species most affected by the conversion of primary forests were large frugivores and large insectivores of the canopy and low understory, or terrestrial interior forest specialists. Species thriving in agroforests were small frugivores, foliage insectivores, and nectarivores often originally associated with gaps. The factors affecting biodiversity in agroforests may involve reduced tree height, canopy foliage volume, vertical diversity of the vegetation structure, floristic richness, and associated variety of food resources. High hunting pressure may also be a factor. These multipurpose, traditionally managed agroforests still are a valuable compromise between conservation of tropical forest biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources. They also function as buffer zones between densely populated and protected areas and are one of the most successful examples of silviculture of dipterocarps. Yet they are not equivalent to primary forests.

Traditional and chemical techniques for stimulation of shorea javanica (Dipterocarpaceae) resin exudation in Sumatra

Resin tappers in Sumatra induce resin flow in Shorea javanica by first opening vertical rows of small (3 cm) holes in the tree trunk. After 6–12 mo, larger (10–15 cm) holes are opened between the rows of small holes for resin harvest. Informants reported that opium applied to trees increased resin yields. Application of 10% 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid to artificial trunk wounds ofS. javanica production trees increased resin yields by 110% relative to controls in 72-h trials. Wounds of previously untapped trees exuded no resin in response to the same treatment.

MULTIDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH ON Shorea javanica

It was April 1985, under the leadership of Dr. Ir. Z. Goto, then Tropical Forest Biology Program Manager, that it was decided to launch in BIOTROP a multidisciplinary research on Shorea javanica. This followed the publication in 1984 by E.F. Torquebiau of a paper describing the traditional planting of this tree for resin production by farmers near the small town of Krui, in Lampung Province, Southern Sumatra (Man-made dipterocarp forest in Sumatra. Agroforestry Systems, 2: 103-127). A proposal was subsequently made to develop in BIOTROP different research topics around this species in order to promote it for plantation forestry. The choice of this species was justified by the important knowledge from its traditional uses and planting, while in the long term, it is hoped that the development of plantations of this species will promote the use of other dipterocarps and native trees for plantation forestry.

V. PRELIMINARY STUDY ON ISOZYMES OF SHOREA JAVANICA

The detection of genetic variability in natural or man-made populations/ plantations is useful in both basic and applied biology. In addition to the various facets of studies on Shorea javanica already initiated by Torquebiau (1984) and alongside with his recommendations on focus for future research, a study on the genetic aspects of the species should be given important considerations. As the trees are tapped for resin, an important forest product, the genetic basis of the production as well as the range of variation in amount of resin production among the trees must be known. Coupled with this is a thorough investigation on the differences in pest resistance/susceptability among the trees and their genetic basis. While the assumption (Torquebiau 1984) that trees in natural forest areas are-rarely attacked by diseases because of mycorrhizal fungi is interesting, its confirmation is necessary. If this is true, problems would arise when plants are introduced into a new plantation site as experienced by the Forest Research Institute (Ardikoesuma 1954). Thus, we need to look for pest resistant plants i.e. those that can remain healthy even in the absence of mycorrhizae. The above studies on possible genetic variation could give vital information for development of forest plantations of the species and for breeding and tree improvement strategies. By knowing the extent of genetic variation in natural population or in plantations one could be guided to maintain or increase the genetic base in these areas. Biochemical characters such as isozyme banding patterns have been useful in several areas of plant biology, population genetics, evolution and breeding. Isozymes are detected by starch gel electrophoresis and when their genetic control is established, they could be genetic markers in analyzing variation in morphological or physiological characters. The present study is an attempt to detect the isozymes in leaves, seeds and cotyledons of Shorea javanica by gel electrophoresis.

SOILS FROM CULTIVATED STANDS OF SHOREA JAVANICA

Soils from Shorea javanica plantations in different parts of Lampung province, South Sumatra were sampled to a depth of 50 cm and described. They varied from quite deep loamy alkaline soils near Krui, to sticky acid clays behind Ngaras. The cation content of most samples was quite high, but organic nutrients were low, suggesting volcanic origin of the soils. Preliminary observations of performance in situ of S. javanica would suggest a requirement for deep loamy, fairly alkaline soils with a moderately high exchangeable cation content for optimal yield and performance.

MYCORRHIZAE IN AGROFORESTRY: A CASE-STUDY

Census of mycorrhizae in Shorea javanica agroforests has been made periodically in the district of Krui, Lampung, Sumatra. Amanita hemibapha (Amanitaceae), Cantharellus cibarius (Cantharella-ceae), Lactarius spp., Russula spp. (Russulaceae) and Scleroderma sp. (Sclerodermataceae) were commonly encountered on the agroforest floor. These mycorrhizal fungi are naturally associated with the planted trees. The significance of mycorrhizae for the maximization of growth and sustained productivity of resin is discussed as well as the need to design well defined agroforestry systems to facilitate growth and to improve production management techniques.

When agroforests drive back natural forests: A socio-economic analysis of a rice-agroforest system in Sumatra

In the Krui arae, (South Sumatra, Indonesia), the damar agroforests (Shorea javanica, Dipterocarpaceae) are but one element of the farming systems which include several other cropping systems such as irrigated or rainfed rice cultivation, and coffee plantation.