Sub-population survey of Dipterocarpus retusus Bl. in Mount Gede Pangrango National Park

Abstract

Dipterocarpaceae are globally important tree family due to its conservation status. Most of Dipterocarpaceae in Java are distributed in lowland area. However, several species exist in higher altitude such as Gede Pangrango National Park (GPNP) area. All Dipterocarpaceae species in GPNP are vulnerable or endangered based on IUCN Red List status. Dipterocarpaceae species are main priorities for plant conservation in GPNP. In this study we conducted early survey of Dipterocarpus retusus Bl. sub-population in Bodogol area (northwest slope of GPNP) at elevation 800-1000 m above sea level. We searched D. retusus individuals along trail in the Bodogol area from forest exterior towards forest interior. The subpopulation of D. retusus detected in mixed forests that dominated by emergent Fagaceae species (Castanopsis argentea). Positive correlation between diameter and height may reflect low disturbance rate in Bodogol forest area. We also found negative effect of habitat elevation toward plant height, which mean that the centre of sub-population located in the lower elevation part of the sampling location. This study signifies the importance of Bodogol forest area that contain globally important Red List plant species.