Tree Species Diversity and Conservation Status of Keniam Forest, Taman Negara, Pahang

Abstract

This study was conducted to quantify the community structure with regards to tree species composition and species diversity of tree communities at Kuala Keniam. Five study plots of 25 m x 20 m each were established randomly covering a total area of 0.25 ha. In each plot, all trees with diameters at breast height of 5 cm and above were tagged, measured and identified. Voucher specimens were then taken for further verification purposes. The floristic composition of Kuala Keniam consists of 244 individuals represented by 142 species, 95 genera and 36 families. Euphorbiaceae was the most speciose family with 20 species and nine genera. Elateriospermum tapos (Euphorbiaceae) was recorded as the most dominant species with 16 trees. Kuala Keniam recorded Shannon-Weiner Diversity index of H'=3.01 and Margalef's Richness Index with DMG=22.78. Low evenness index of J' = 0.14 portrayed the unequal distribution of the tree species in the forest. Total tree biomass was estimated at 955.02 t/ha, represented by 815.43 t/ha of above ground biomass and 139.59 t/ha of below ground biomass. Carbon stock was estimated at 448.86 t/ha, contributed by, 383.25 t/ha of above ground carbon and 65.61 t/ha of below ground carbon.