Mapping, Distribution Patterns And Population Structure Of Shorea Platyclados In The Martelu Purba Nature Reserve

Feb 27, 2025 by ADMIN 114 views

Introduction

Shorea Platyclados, also known as Meranti Bukit, is a commercially important wooden tree species in Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, this species is currently classified as critically endangered, with a significant decline in its population over the past decade. The S. Platyclados population has decreased by 50% in the last ten years, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts. This study aims to create a map of the distribution of S. Platyclados parent trees, describe its morphology, identify distribution patterns, and analyze S. PlatyClados population structure in the Martelu Purba Nature Reserve.

Methodology

Field data collection was carried out using vegetation analysis techniques that combined plot lines and measurement lines. To obtain a coordinate point, a global positioning system (GPS) was used, and the morphological characteristics of each S. Platyclados were recorded, including canopy conditions, stem conversion, stem shape, and branch angle. Population structure analysis was conducted based on plant density, and the distribution pattern was calculated using a standard mortality index.

Results

Field observations revealed that the S. PlatyClados parent tree is spread quite evenly in the Martelu Purba Nature Reserve, with a total of 339 trees. The average morphological condition of S. Platyclados is in good health, with most trees exhibiting a 5th canopy class, a stem score of 100%, and a round stem shape. The branch angle is also predominantly in the group > 70°.

Distribution Patterns

The distribution pattern of S. platyclados shows a uniform distribution at the level of adult seeds and trees, with a distribution index value (IP) of -0.16 and -0.53, respectively. In contrast, at the seedling level, the distribution pattern is random, with an IP of 0, and in pole, a group pattern is observed, with an IP of 0.02.

Population Structure

The S. Platyclados population structure in the Martelu Purba Nature Reserve exhibits an inverted J-shape, indicating a good regeneration. This pattern reflects the sustainability and stability of the S. Platyclados population, which is crucial for the preservation of this species, especially given its critical status.

Implications and Conclusion

This mapping and analysis not only provides an understanding of the existence and condition of the S. PlatyClados population but also contributes to the efforts of conservation and sustainable forest resource management. Accurate data and in-depth analysis can help stakeholders in taking appropriate action to ensure the survival of this endangered species, as well as maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems in the future.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Conservation Efforts: The Martelu Purba Nature Reserve should be designated as a protected area to ensure the long-term survival of the S. Platyclados population.
Sustainable Forest Management: Forest management practices should be implemented to maintain the balance of forest ecosystems and ensure the sustainability of the S. Platyclados population.
Research and Monitoring: Further research and monitoring should be conducted to track the population dynamics of S. Platyclados and to identify potential threats to its survival.
Community Engagement: Community engagement and education programs should be implemented to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and sustainable forest resource management.

Future Directions

This study highlights the importance of conservation and sustainable forest resource management in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems. Future research should focus on:

Population Dynamics: Investigating the population dynamics of S. Platyclados, including its growth rate, mortality rate, and recruitment patterns.
Habitat Fragmentation: Examining the impact of habitat fragmentation on the S. Platyclados population and its potential effects on forest ecosystems.
Climate Change: Investigating the potential impacts of climate change on the S. Platyclados population and its ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

By addressing these research gaps, we can better understand the complex relationships between S. Platyclados, its habitat, and the forest ecosystem, ultimately informing effective conservation and management strategies for this critically endangered species.

Q: What is Shorea Platyclados, and why is it important?

A: Shorea Platyclados, also known as Meranti Bukit, is a commercially important wooden tree species in Southeast Asia. It is a valuable resource for the timber industry and plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems.

Q: Why is Shorea Platyclados considered critically endangered?

A: The S. Platyclados population has decreased by 50% in the last ten years, making it a critically endangered species. This decline is attributed to various factors, including habitat loss, over-exploitation, and climate change.

Q: What is the purpose of this study?

A: This study aims to create a map of the distribution of S. Platyclados parent trees, describe its morphology, identify distribution patterns, and analyze S. PlatyClados population structure in the Martelu Purba Nature Reserve.

Q: What methods were used to collect data?

A: Field data collection was carried out using vegetation analysis techniques that combined plot lines and measurement lines. A global positioning system (GPS) was used to obtain coordinate points, and morphological characteristics of each S. Platyclados were recorded, including canopy conditions, stem conversion, stem shape, and branch angle.

Q: What were the main findings of this study?

A: The study found that the S. PlatyClados parent tree is spread quite evenly in the Martelu Purba Nature Reserve, with a total of 339 trees. The average morphological condition of S. Platyclados is in good health, with most trees exhibiting a 5th canopy class, a stem score of 100%, and a round stem shape.

Q: What are the implications of this study?

A: This study highlights the importance of conservation and sustainable forest resource management in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems. Accurate data and in-depth analysis can help stakeholders in taking appropriate action to ensure the survival of this endangered species.

Q: What are the recommendations of this study?

A: Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Conservation Efforts: The Martelu Purba Nature Reserve should be designated as a protected area to ensure the long-term survival of the S. Platyclados population.
Sustainable Forest Management: Forest management practices should be implemented to maintain the balance of forest ecosystems and ensure the sustainability of the S. Platyclados population.
Research and Monitoring: Further research and monitoring should be conducted to track the population dynamics of S. Platyclados and to identify potential threats to its survival.
Community Engagement: Community engagement and education programs should be implemented to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and sustainable forest resource management.

Q: What are the future directions of this research?

A: This study highlights the importance of conservation and sustainable forest resource management in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems. Future research should focus on:

Population Dynamics: Investigating the population dynamics of S. Platyclados, including its growth rate, mortality rate, and recruitment patterns.
Habitat Fragmentation: Examining the impact of habitat fragmentation on the S. Platyclados population and its potential effects on forest ecosystems.
Climate Change: Investigating the potential impacts of climate change on the S. Platyclados population and its ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.