A review of the present threats to tropical moist deciduous Sal (Shorea robusta) forest ecosystem of central Bangladesh

Abstract

The tropical moist deciduous Sal (Shorea robusta) forest ecosystem of central Bangladesh is currently in a critical situation. Destructive anthropogenic and natural impacts coupled with overexploitation of forest resources have caused severe damage to the forest ecosystem. Sal is usually harvested for construction works, fuel wood, timbers, tannins, pillars, and furniture making purposes. The rapidly expanding agriculture in the forest land is a significant threat to the Sal forest ecosystem. This forest has been rapidly exhausted in recent times due to rubber monoculture and expanding commercial fuel-wood plantations. Due to illegal cutting, encroachment of forest areas, and illegal poaching of wildlife, the Sal forest is losing biodiversity at an alarming rate. The present status of the Sal forest ecosystem has been briefly discussed in this paper. After reviewing contemporary literature and analyzing findings of published research regarding the present threats to the Sal forest ecosystem of Bangladesh, this study recommends adoption of a sustainable forest management strategy based on scientific concepts of advanced silviculture. Furthermore, the requirement of further scientific research for better understanding of the Sal forest ecosystem has been stressed. Finally, this paper asserts that conservation and protection of the Sal forest ecosystem of Bangladesh can be achieved if sustainable forest management strategies are developed by involving all relevant stakeholders in the policy formulation process.