Ethnobotanical investigation of Baccaurea spp. (Phyllantaceae) used by local people near Gunung Leuser National Park, Aceh, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Baccaurea spp. is a fruit species that grows in Gunung Leuser National Park and has long been used for food by local communities in the nearby forest. Moreover, several Baccaurea spp. are underutilized. Population growth in and near forested areas accelerates forest degradation and threatens the existence of Baccaurea spp. in the wild. This study aims to investigate the diversity, use, and role of traditional knowledge in the conservation of Baccaurea spp. in Gunung Leuser National Park, Aceh, Indonesia. Methods: This study was carried out in 12 villages from 6 sub-districts and 4 districts in Aceh province. Extensive field surveys, plant collection, and interviews with local communities were used in this study. The exploration method was used to gather Baccaurea spp. samples. Identification of Baccaurea specimens is accomplished through the use of identification keys, comparison with previously identified herbarium specimens, and/or confirmation with relevant taxa experts. Semi-structured interviews with 390 randomly selected respondents were used to collect ethnobotanical data on the use of Baccaurea spp. Results: A total of nine Baccaurea spp. were identified, with 90% growing wild in the forest. Baccaurea polyneura was the most preferred species for local communities in the study area. Local communities have used Baccaurea spp. for different purposes, including food, medicine, construction material, agricultural tools, fodder, and fuelwood. More than 60% of traditional knowledge related to the use of Baccaurea spp. was obtained from their relatives. Conclusion: A total of ten Baccaurea spp. were discovered in the study area. Baccaurea spp. also plays an important role as a source of medicine, construction material, agricultural tools, fodder, and fuelwood, as well as for food. Baccaurea spp., however, in the study area is threatened by several factors, mainly agricultural expansion, implying that conservation efforts should be improved with the implementation of sustainable management strategies based on traditional knowledge that prioritizes Baccaurea species frequently used by local communities.