Jurnal Sylva Lestari

Evaluating Tourism Performance through Tourist Perceptions: A Case Study of Petengoran Mangrove Tourism in Lampung, Indonesia

2024-09-11T23:17:58+07:00

The existence of components that did not represent the concept of ecotourism and the decline in the number of visits was very significant. This research evaluated tourism performance based on tourists’ perspectives to determine the components that need improvement. The respondents in this study were 100 tourists, who were obtained by applying the Slovin formula. This study used primary data collected through research questionnaires distributed to respondents. The research instrument was tested to ensure its validity and reliability. The collected data were analyzed using the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI), Gap Analysis, and Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA). Petengoran Mangrove Tourism does not match tourists’ expectations. The attributes that become the main priority because their performance is considered not to have met tourists’ expectations are the availability and diversity of tourist activities, accessibility conditions, implementation of educational activities, and several facilities that do not meet tourist satisfaction, even though these components are what tourists highly expected.

Keywords: customer satisfaction index, mangrove tourism, Petengoran, tourism performance, tourist perception

Cost Analysis of Skyline-assisted Felling Technique in Private Forests in Probolinggo, Indonesia

2024-07-04T10:23:55+07:00

Tree felling is an important component of the forest harvesting system. A skyline-assisted felling technique (locally known as the ‘sandat’ felling technique) is used in private forest harvesting in Probolinggo, East Java, Indonesia, as an alternative to the conventional felling technique. This felling technique is used in private forests planted with an agroforestry pattern. Private forest farmers have recognized the technique as an effective way to protect multi-purpose tree species, especially coffee plants, but the technique’s efficiency is not yet known. The study analyzed the costs and productivity of sandat felling techniques in private forests planted with agroforestry patterns in Probolinggo. Working time studies, branch-free height, and breast height diameter measurements were carried out to calculate felling costs and productivity. The present value cost function was developed to compare the costs of sandat felling techniques with conventional felling techniques. The study showed that the productivity of sandat felling techniques was lower than conventional felling techniques. In contrast, the operating costs of sandat felling techniques were higher than those of conventional felling techniques. The operating cost per m³ rose by 20%. Additional operating costs for sandat felling techniques were incurred for procuring ropes and installing and uninstalling skyline. The felling costs will decrease with the felling team's increasing experience and skill.

Keywords: agroforestry, costs analysis, felling techniques, private forests, sandat felling

Antitermite Activity of Eucalyptus pellita Bark Extract

2024-11-29T13:07:07+07:00

The study uncovers the promising anti-termite properties of Eucalyptus pellita bark extract, a resource often discarded as industrial waste in the pulp and paper manufacturing industry. It investigates the anti-termite efficacy of various extracts from E. pellita bark and identifies the extract with the highest activity, followed by a comprehensive phytochemical analysis. Samples of E. pellita inner bark, outer bark, and mixed bark were ground into 40–60 mesh powder and subjected to extraction using soxhletation techniques with successive extraction in increasingly polar solvents (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol solvents). The anti-termite activity of these extracts was evaluated using no-choice bioassays to determine the termite antifeedant activity through the weight loss percentage of test samples and the mortality rate of Coptotermes sp. Furthermore, Py-GCMS analysis was conducted on extracts exhibiting the highest anti-termite activity to elucidate their chemical composition. The findings revealed that methanol extracts from all three parts of E. pellita bark exhibited the most potent anti-termite activity against Coptotermes sp., as evidenced by the highest mortality rate (100%) and cellulose paper weight loss of 9.57 ± 6.66 mg. These methanol extracts were predominantly composed of phenolic compounds, particularly condensed tannins, suggesting a potential breakthrough in termite control. The findings indicate that E. pellita bark may be a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for termite control. Furthermore, its utilization may facilitate waste valorization in the pulp and paper industry, thereby supporting environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

Keywords: coptotermes, decay properties, inner bark, outer bark, resistance properties

Feeding Preferences of Subterranean Termite Schedorhinotermes javanicus on Tusam (Pinus merkusii) Wood

2024-12-13T15:31:53+07:00

Wood-destroying termites are quite influential in Indonesia, and the subterranean termite Schedorhinotermes javanicus is one of them. This study was conducted to determine the feeding preferences of subterranean termites S. javanicus on tusam (Pinus merkusii) wood and the influence of their environment. The bait woods made of tusam boards were installed at the experimental site. The weight loss and consumption of bait woods were studied with three test times (one, two, three) months of burial. The subterranean termite specimens attacking the bait woods, soil characteristics, and weather at the experimental field were also identified. The results demonstrated that the average air temperature at the experimental site was 25.4 ± 0.4°C, the average air humidity reached 88.8 ± 2.4%, and the light intensity at the experimental site ranged from 175.67 lux to 3889.7 lux. The results showed that S. javanicus quite actively attacked the bait wood. This can be seen from the high weight loss (35.03%) and the wood consumption (38.78 g). The weight loss after three exposure times in the experimental field was up to 13.54%, 16.38%, and 35.03%, respectively. The wood consumption during the same experimental period reached 14.9 g, 18.25 g, and 38.78 g, sequentially. The high weight loss and the consumption of bait wood indicate the high feeding preference of the subterranean termites S. javanicus on tusam wood.

Keywords: field test, Pinus merkusii, Schedorhinotermes javanicus, weight loss, wood consumption

Disease Spectral Identification and Analysis on the Bark of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea Roxb)

2025-01-07T14:41:11+07:00

Gmelina arborea is among the fast-growing Industrial tree plantation species currently being used as an alternative source of the decreasing supply of commercial timber from natural-growth forests. This study focuses on disease spectral identification and analysis of G. arborea bark using UV-Vis Spectrophotometry. Bark samples from both healthy and unhealthy bark with canker and death diseases were collected inside Caraga State University’s Main Campus. The methodology involved preparing bark extracts and measuring their absorbance over a wavelength range of 350 nm to 800 nm. The findings revealed distinct spectral signatures of healthy and unhealthy cankers, particularly with death disease, which exhibits a greater alteration in its spectral trend. The spectral trend of death-disease shows a drastic decrease in its absorption and the presence of troughs and peaks. On the other hand, the canker shows a decrease in its absorption. The severity of disease in the bark may potentially affect the behavior of the spectral trend; this is proven in the spectral trend of death-disease. The absorbance decreased, causing troughs at specific wavelengths as the presence of those diseases and their severity progressed. These findings show that spectral information from healthy and unhealthy bark can be used as an early detection method for tree diseases or stresses, thereby contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of G. arborea.

Keywords: disease identification, healthy bark, Gmelina arborea, unhealthy bark, UV-Vis spectrometry

Diversity and Ecophysiological Performance of Coffee under Dry-Field and Homegarden Agroforestry in Yogyakarta

2024-12-05T13:11:28+07:00

Coffee is commonly cultivated under agroforestry systems, including dry-field and homegarden. These systems were differentiated based on their proximity to the settlements, which might influence the species composition. This study aimed to observe plant composition, diversity, vegetation structure, and microclimate in coffee agroforestry systems and the physiological conditions of coffee. The experimental design was based on purposive sampling. A total of 100 nested plots were established in Glagaharjo and Balerante of Yogyakarta, each consisting of a dry-field and homegarden. Higher diversity and potential products were observed in dry-field agroforestry. There was no significant difference in microclimate between both systems. However, a significantly higher number of poles (p < 0.001) and trees (p < 0.001) in dry-field compared to homegarden contributed to lower light interception, higher humidity and temperature in dry-field, which could be associated with the higher physiological performance of coffee despite the non-significant difference between the systems (p > 0.05). Therefore, microclimate conditions under dry-fields were considered suitable for improving coffee growth performance.

Keywords: agroforestry, coffee, dry-field, eco-physiology, homegarden

Influence of Elevation on Falcataria moluccana [Miq.] Barneby & J.W. Grimes Gall Rust Incidence and Severity in Agusan del Norte, Philippines

2025-01-17T23:55:31+07:00

Gall rust disease poses a significant threat to falcata (Falcataria moluccana [Miq.] Barneby & J.W. Grimes), particularly in different elevation ranges. This study aimed to assess the gall rust disease incidence and severity at low (0–200 masl), moderate (201–400 masl), and high (401–600 masl) elevations. Results showed a significant correlation between gall rust disease incidence and severity and elevation based on Spearman rho correlation analysis. Higher elevations were associated with increased gall rust disease incidence and severity. This suggests that environmental conditions specific to these elevations may aggravate gall rust development. Based on the findings, temperature and relative humidity, which vary with elevation, play a role in gall rust disease incidence. Conversely, light intensity significantly influences gall rust disease severity across elevation ranges. These findings signify the importance of elevation-related factors in disease management strategies in falcata plantations. By identifying the relationship between gall rust disease and elevation, this research provides insightful information that can be used to improve disease management strategies and create focused control measures. The results provide an in-depth understanding of gall rust disease dynamics and offer recommendations for reducing its impact.

Keywords: disease incidence, disease severity, elevation, Falcataria moluccana, gall rust

Enhancing Afforestation Success: Seedling Survival and Growth in Relation to Planting Pit Digging and Vegetation Control in Rashaya Al-Wadi, Lebanon

2024-11-29T22:50:44+07:00

Afforestation is vital for environmental conservation but is hindered in arid and semi-arid regions by water scarcity and competitive vegetation. This study evaluates three pit-digging methods (traditional pits, hoedad, and auger tools) and three vegetation control strategies (mulching, mowing, and herbicide) in Rashaya al-Wadi, Lebanon. Six tree species (Quercus calliprinos, Quercus infectoria, Pistacia palaestina, Pinus pinea, Pinus halepensis, and Cedrus libani) were assessed using a randomized complete block design with 12 treatment combinations replicated across four blocks. Seedlings were planted with uniform spacing, and vegetation controls were applied once at planting. Survival and growth, measured biannually over two years as height and root collar diameter (RCD), were analyzed using ANOVA. Survival was highest with mulch (51%), followed by herbicide (35%), and lowest with mowing (1.2%) and control (1.4%). Height growth ranged from 6.75–30.44 cm with mulch, 3.72–36.89 cm with herbicide, 1.92–5.25 cm with mowing, and 1.81–6.08 cm with control. RCD growth followed similar trends. Traditional pits achieved the highest survival, while the hoedad tool had the lowest. Findings demonstrate that mulching with traditional pits enhances afforestation success and offers a sustainable solution for semi-arid regions. Further research is needed to refine methods for diverse sites.

Keywords: afforestation success, competitive vegetation, environmental conservation, pit-digging methods, seedling survival

Estimating Vegetation Density Dynamics, Tree Diversity, and Carbon Stock in the Agroforestry System of the Community Forest in Bogor Regency, Indonesia

2024-08-13T22:57:13+07:00

Mitigation actions to address climate change are essential to prevent future adverse impacts, with woody species in forests playing a pivotal role in carbon storage, as exemplified by the agroforestry systems commonly practiced in community forests of Bogor Regency, which integrate woody species and crops. This study aimed to analyze changes in vegetation density using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) approach, analyze stand structure and composition, and estimate above-ground carbon stocks in the agroforestry land of community forest in Tenjolaya Sub-District, Bogor Regency. The methods used were spatial analysis with NDVI, vegetation analysis, and carbon stock estimation using allometric and destructive methods. The plot size was 50 m × 50 m, totaling 21 plots. NDVI analysis resulted in low density (0.59–0.67), moderate density (0.67–0.78), and high density (0.78–0.85). This study found 178 plant species across 40 families, with Fabaceae and Myrtaceae being the most dominant. The carbon stock is 27.69 tons carbon/ha. Carbon stock is significantly influenced by tree density, number of species, and basal area values. A well-managed community forest has high ecological, economic, and social potential through the development of agroforestry, which can maintain biodiversity and environmental sustainability while storing carbon stocks.

Keywords: above-ground carbon, agroforestry, community forest, normalized difference vegetation index, vegetation density

Effects of Storage-Induced Moisture Loss on Germination Performance and Oil Yield of Pongamia pinnata

2024-12-02T10:55:11+07:00

Pongamia (Pongamia pinnata) is a non-food plant that has the potential to be developed as a biofuel because its seeds’ oil content is up to 40%. Therefore, it is necessary to study the characteristics of seeds for germination in relation to mass cultivation and information on oil content as a production consideration. This paper aimed to describe the sensitivity of pongamia seed moisture content to germination and its oil content and also to understand the seed category. Variations in moisture content were obtained from storing seeds at ambient temperature for up to 5 months. Moisture content, morphological characters, oil content, and germination rate were examined for each storage period. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance to determine the treatment effect. The results showed that storing seeds at ambient temperature caused a decrease in moisture content. A decrease in moisture content of 29.36% in the first month’s storage significantly affected the reduction of morphological characters and seed weight. Meanwhile, during the 2–5 months storage period, the decrease in moisture content was only 2–5% and did not affect seed length. Reducing moisture content (MC) increased oil recovery but was not statistically significant. The best germination rate was 84.67%, obtained from fresh seeds (MC of 46.64%); the germination rate decreased as the moisture content decreased during storage. Pongamia should be categorized as an intermediate seed based on the seed moisture content characteristics and germination test results.

Keywords: germination, moisture content, oil content, Pongamia pinnata, storage

Spatial Model of Carbon Stocks in Special Purpose Forest Area (KHDTK) Mungku Baru, Central Kalimantan Province, Indonesia

2024-11-29T16:12:00+07:00

This study aims to estimate vegetation biomass and spatial distribution of carbon stocks in Special Purpose Forest Area (KHDTK) Mungku Baru, Palangka Raya City, Central Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. KHDTK Mungku Baru is a former logging area from the 1970s, which has undergone secondary succession and is dominated by pole and sapling levels. The approach used in this study involves remote sensing technology and field inventory data, which allows carbon stock calculations to be carried out quickly and accurately over a very large area. A linear regression algorithm was used to obtain a spatial model of carbon stocks using NDVI obtained from Landsat as a predictor. The developed model shows positive correlation results with an R² value of 0.70; an Adjusted R² value of 0.69 with a p-level < 0.05, and RMSE of 42 tons/ha. This carbon stock mapping results serve as a basis for formulating various management plans for KHDTK Mungku Baru regarding ecological, social, and economic aspects.

Keywords: carbon stocks, normalized difference vegetation index, spatial model, special purpose forest area, vegetation biomass

Institutional Analysis of Sustainable Management of the Sekampung Watershed, Lampung Province, Indonesia

2024-11-05T15:27:17+07:00

The Sekampung Watershed is one of the 108 critical national watersheds designated by the government as requiring restoration of its carrying capacity. In addition to restoration challenges, a lack of coordination among various institutions has led to fragmented and uncoordinated efforts in watershed conservation. Addressing these, researching the institutional aspects of sustainable management by synergistic governance across sectors in the Sekampung watershed is crucial. This study aimed to determine the key institutions directly involved in the sustainable management of the Sekampung Watershed in Lampung Province, along with their coordination mechanisms and interrelationships. This study also aimed to identify constraints in the sustainable management implementation of the Sekampung watershed. The study employed the Interpretative Structural Modelling (ISM) method using questionnaires and expert discussions. The results show that the key institutions in the integrated management of the watershed to ensure the Sekampung Watershed’s functions are preserved and sustainably utilized were the provincial government institutions, governor, regent, mayor, together with the Provincial and Regency or City Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park Authority (BBTNBBS), and the Way Seputih Way Sekampung Watershed and Forest Management Agency (BPDAS HL WSS). The low awareness care of the community towards watershed management was identified as a critical constraint that must be addressed for the successful sustainable management of the Way Sekampung Watershed.

Keywords: institutional analysis, interpretative structural modelling, protected forest, Sekampung Watershed, stakeholder

Dimensional Stability and Wettability of Modified Samama (Anthocephallus macrophyllus) Wood with Boron, Citric Acid, and Heat Treatment

2024-11-29T14:42:19+07:00

This research aimed to address the leaching phenomenon of boron preservatives in wood. The subsequent investigation focuses on wood's dimensional stabilization and wettability after a two-stage impregnation process. Samama (Anthocephallus macrophyllus) wood was impregnated with boron (boric acid, borax, and a combination of both) at a pressure of 7 atm for 4 hours, with each preservative’s concentration set at 5%. After oven drying at 60°C until achieving a 15% moisture content, the next step involves a second-stage impregnation with citric acid (at a 5% concentration) under the same pressure and duration. The final step included heat treatment at 80°C and 160°C for 4 hours. The research results indicate that boron and citric acid enhance the dimensional stabilization of samama wood. The best dimensional stabilization treatment combines boric acid, borax, citric acid, and heat treatment at 160°C. This study confirms that citric acid improves the dimensional stabilization of samama wood, whether used with boron or not. Compared to treatments without citric acid and heating, the two-stage impregnation reduces boron leaching by up to 30%. The research also recommends that all treatments exhibit good finishing properties.

Keywords: Anthocephallus macrophyllus, boron, dimension stabilization, impregnation, wettability

Analysis of Alfisol Soil Infiltration Rate on Various Land Cover and Its Effect on Soil Erodibility in Mount Bromo Special Purpose Forest Area, Indonesia

2024-12-24T12:58:28+07:00

Plant canopies can protect the soil surface from raindrops and rooting activities that cause changes in biophysical properties. A low infiltration rate will reduce the soil’s capacity to store water to be low, resulting in a high soil erodibility value. This research aims to obtain infiltration values on different land cover, analyze the effect of land cover on soil infiltration rate, and analyze the effect of soil infiltration rate on soil erodibility. The research includes exploratory, descriptive research with a purposive sampling method. The study results show an increased soil infiltration rate can reduce soil erodibility. The infiltration rate of 74-year-old mahogany land cover ranged from 1.94–3.03 cm/hour, 50-year-old mahogany 1.61 cm/hour, old pine 1.53–1.89 cm/hour, old tapped pine 1.54–3.43 cm/hour, young pine 0.48–1.60 cm/hour, young pine 0.37–0.61 cm/hour, and 5-year-old sonokelling 0.56–0.73 cm/hour. The highest infiltration value is in 74-year-old mahogany and the lowest in young pine. The highest soil erodibility value is in young tapped pine and the lowest in 50-year-old mahogany. Erodibility is the sensitivity of soil to erosion. It is easier to erode if its erodibility value is higher; conversely, erosion is less likely to occur if its erodibility value is lower. An increase in soil infiltration rate can reduce soil erodibility.

Keywords: Horton method, land cover, Mount Bromo, soil erodibility, soil infiltration rate

Productivity of Cajuput Stands at Various Age Levels in Telawa Forest Management Unit, Central Java, Indonesia

2024-08-19T16:55:55+07:00

Cajuput (Melaleuca cajuputi Powell) plants are essential oil-producing plants that have ecological and economic benefits. The ideal pruning life is one way to optimize the productivity of cajuput stands. This study aims to analyze the productivity of cajuput stands at various age levels in Telawa Forest Management Unit by considering shoots, stem diameter, shoot diameter, biomass, and land suitability analysis. Data was collected by making three temporary survey plots by simple random sampling at 5, 9, 13, 17, and 21-year-old stands. The results showed that cajuput stands experienced increased productivity, as seen in stem diameter, shoot diameter, and biomass. In addition, the higher the stand density, light intensity, and humidity positively affect the total biomass, with an increase in the life of the stand. Based on the study’s results, the best cajuput productivity occurred at 17-year-old stands, with an average biomass of 1,031.43 kg/ha and an allometric equation of 18.40 kg. The decrease in cajuput productivity occurred at 21-year-old stands, 40% compared to the 17-year-old stands, and the 21-year-old stands have the lowest land index value. Despite the decline in productivity, the main effects still need to be studied over a more extended period.

Keywords: biomass, cajuput, optimal lifespan, productivity

Carbon Storage Potential and Economic Valuation in the Arboretum of Forest Area with Special Purpose (KHDTK) Aek Nauli, Indonesia

2025-01-17T23:59:53+07:00

Sustainable forest management is expected to significantly contribute to preventing climate change and supporting the achievement of the Forestry and Other Land Use (FOLU) Net Sink 2030. This study aims to determine the potential for biomass storage and carbon and economic valuation in the Arboretum of Forest Area with Special Purpose (KHDTK) Aek Nauli, North Sumatra, Indonesia. This study used systematic sampling with random start as an inventory method. The estimation of above-ground carbon uptake used general allometric equations and benefit transfer methods for the economic value of carbon. This study found 62 species of woody plants with 5 species classified as endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, namely Agathis dammara, Dryobalanops aromatica, Tectona grandis, Pinus merkusii and Saurauia bracteosa. There are 734 individuals of woody plants, including 84% in the tree phase and 16% in the pole phase, with dominant species in both phases, namely Pinus merkusii and Schima wallichii. Potential biomass and carbon stocks in the pole phase were 4.76 tons/ha and 2.24 tons/ha, respectively, while in the tree phase were 338.69 tons/ha and 159.19 tons/ha. The total estimated carbon sequestration reached 592.42 tons.CO₂e/ha. Carbon stocks’ total potential economic value is IDR 2,578,832,243 (USD 164,100). Therefore, the Arboretum of KHDTK Aek Nauli is considered to have the potential to support the achievement of the FOLU Net Sink 2030 target. It is expected that the potential economic value of carbon can be converted into real value and optimized through a carbon trading scheme to offset greenhouse gas emissions and support the sustainable management of KHDTK Aek Nauli.

Keywords: benefit transfer, biomass, carbon trade, climate change mitigation, economic potential

Field Evaluation of Biochar Application on the Early Growth of Falcataria moluccana: Effects of Pyrolysis Temperatures and Biochar Application Rates

2025-02-08T14:35:05+07:00

Faltacaria moluccana at its early plantation, is devastated by heat and water stress due to current global climate change. Production forests in Indonesia suggested to use biochar to enhance the durability of early growth F. moluccana in the field. Empty fruit bunches (EFB), a gigantic abundant waste material in Indonesia, pose its potential as biochar feedstock. This study aims to evaluate the effects of EFB biochar on the growth of F. moluccana for one year in a field setting. The experiment used two biochar application rates (25 and 50 tons/ha) and biochar produced at two pyrolysis temperatures (400°C and 600°C). Climatic factors (rainfall and average temperature) were monitored to assess how biochar interacted with field conditions to influence the growth of F. moluccana. EFB biochar increased height and diameter increment by up to 25% and 42%, respectively, compared to control after one year. While pyrolysis temperatures show no impact on growth, biochar application rates of 25 and 50 tons/ha significantly boost diameter increments by 36% and 42%, respectively, compared to controls, without affecting height. Biochar also improves monthly growth increments under water and heat stress. EFB biochar optimizes growth under current climate conditions in Indonesia and mitigates the negative effects of extreme temperature fluctuations.

Keywords: biochar, early plant growth, empty fruit bunch, Faltacaria moluccana, field experiment

Kelekak Agroforestry in Central Bangka, Indonesia: Species Diversity, Challenges, and Conservation Strategies

2025-01-13T15:22:13+07:00

Forest land conversion has caused global climate change, reducing biodiversity and food security challenges. Climate change’s influence on food security must be anticipated promptly by adopting an adaptable agricultural cultivation system, such as agroforestry. The Bangka community is one of many that continue to practice agroforestry. In the Bangka community, agroforestry is known as kelekak. This research aims to learn about the history, variety of species, challenges, and conservation strategies of kelekak. This study's data was gathered through interviews, field observations, and literature studies. Kelekak is a woodland region historically used by the community to produce dryland rice (ume), which later became kelekak agroforestry land. Several fruit plant species are commonly found on kelekak land, including durian (Durio zibethinus), mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), cempedak (Artocarpus integer), and ketapi (Sandoricum koetjape). The community utilizes various plant species in the kelekak as food, medicine, building materials, and firewood. Kelekak’s survival is threatened by land conversion to monoculture plantations, limiting community resource access. Efforts to revive the kelekak can be achieved through the Tri Stimulus Amar Pro-Konservasi approach by integrating natural, benefit, and religious willingness stimulus. Efforts to reinvigorate kelekak must begin immediately, with mapping activities for the remaining kelekak in the Central Bangka area to provide primary data for future kelekak development and local government regulations to conserve kelekak.

Keywords: agroforestry, conservation, food, forest, kelekak

Impact of Mangrove Land Use on the Carbon Stock in an Abandoned Shrimp Pond: A Case Study at Samut Songkhram Campus, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Thailand

2025-02-06T12:41:56+07:00

Changes in land use within coastal areas have significantly impacted the carbon stock of mangrove forests. This study examined three different land-use types including the abandonment of shrimp ponds characterized as restored mangrove forests (RMF), logged Avicennia marina (LAM) stands, and abandoned shrimp ponds (ASP) on the carbon stock in plant and soil. Eight experimental plots, each measuring 20 m x 20 m, were established in the RMF and LAM to assess the forest structure. The diameter and height of mangrove trees were measured, and both the above and belowground biomass were estimated. Three soil samples were collected randomly from each site at four different depths (0–15 cm, 15–30 cm, 30–50 cm, and 50–100 cm) to analyze the soil characteristics. Bulk density and carbon concentration were then determined from these samples. The Tukey test estimated and statistically analyzed vegetation, soil, and carbon stocks. The results indicate that the forest structure and biodiversity in RMF were higher than in LAM. Additionally, vegetation biomass and carbon stock in RMF exceeded the values estimated for LAM. The soil carbon stock at 0–100 cm depths across RMF, LAM, and ASP was similar, ranging from 204.52 to 220.20 t.C.ha^-¹. Nonetheless, the largest ecosystem carbon stock was estimated for RMF (306.52 t.C.ha^-¹), demonstrating the influence of land-use patterns on ecosystem carbon storage. According to the results, it might take longer for the ecosystem carbon in the abandoned shrimp pond in ASP to recover than it would in RMF and LAM. However, mangrove restoration in abandoned shrimp ponds is crucial to improve the forest structure, encourage ecological advantages, and accelerate carbon stock recovery.

Keywords: abandoned shrimp pond, carbon stock, land use, mangrove forest, Samut Songkhram campus

Conservation Challenges for Endangered Mammals: Research Gaps and Collaboration Needs Based on Stakeholder Bibliometric Analysis

2025-01-18T00:13:55+07:00

The global focus on endangered mammals highlights urgent, effective conservation strategies addressing habitat destruction, land-use changes, poaching, agricultural expansion, and encroachment. This study aims to identify research gaps in stakeholder engagement, map research trends and assess leading contributors of endangered mammal conservation, and explore opportunities for international collaboration for biodiversity conservation. This study was done using bibliometric analysis of 716 initial documents that were further selected to 85 publications based on PRISMA guidelines in R-Studio tools. This review highlights the fact that there is a limited focus on stakeholder engagement within mammal conservation research. Countries with high biodiversity, such as Indonesia, Mexico, and Brazil, contribute less to the scientific literature than high-income countries. This imbalance suggests the need for equitable research funding and expanded collaboration. Strengthening partnerships with research-intensive countries could increase publication output and knowledge sharing. Furthermore, regional cooperation with other original countries with similarly endangered species, like Malaysia and Thailand, is essential for improving research quality and optimizing resource exchange. The findings further highlight the importance of sustainable conservation practices and stakeholder engagement in effectively fostering the protection of endangered mammal species.

Keywords: conservation governance, endangered species, research partnership, stakeholder engagement, systematic literature review

Bending Strengths of Large-leaf Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) and Mangium (Acacia mangium Willd) Commercial Lumbers in Northeastern Mindanao, Philippines

2025-01-18T00:06:05+07:00

Large-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) and mangium (Acacia mangium Willd) have been the preferred wood for furniture and cabinets for ages. S. macrophylla is famous around the world for the wood it provides. This study investigated the bending strength (modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE)) of S. macrophylla and A. mangium commercially available lumbers sold at roadside lumber dealers in northeastern Mindanao (Provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur and Misamis Oriental), Philippines. Four lumbers were acquired for each species in every province. A total of 12 lumbers per species were collected from the three provinces, or 24 sampled lumbers. These lumbers were further processed into a nominal dimension of 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm × 27.6 cm. All samples were oven-dried at 105 ± 3°C for 24 hours inside a laboratory oven until no more moisture could be removed. The 3-point test jig was fabricated and adapted to a kidizen science-free design but modified for this study. The results show no significant differences in bending strength at a 0.01 significance level among the three provinces and between species. Overall, bending strength is comparable across provinces and species. For S. macrophylla and A. mangium, Agusan del Norte obtained the highest MOR and MOE (54.707 MPa, 63.002 MPa). The MOE of S. macrophylla in Agusan del Norte was also high (6,825 MPa), but for A. mangium, Misamis Oriental province was the highest.

Keywords: 3-point test jig, load deflection, mahogany, modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture

Gall Rust Disease Dynamics in Falcataria falcata L. Across Elevations in Agusan del Norte, Philippines

2025-02-20T16:57:08+07:00

Gall rust disease poses a significant threat to falcata (Falcataria falcata L.), particularly in different elevation ranges. This study aimed to assess the gall rust disease incidence and severity at low (0–200 masl), moderate (201–400 masl), and high (401–600 masl) elevations. Results showed a significant correlation between gall rust disease incidence and severity and elevation based on Spearman rho correlation analysis. Higher elevations were associated with increased gall rust disease incidence and severity. This suggests that environmental conditions specific to these elevations may aggravate gall rust development. Based on the findings, temperature and relative humidity, which vary with elevation, play a role in gall rust disease incidence. Conversely, light intensity significantly influences gall rust disease severity across elevation ranges. These findings signify the importance of elevation-related factors in disease management strategies in falcata plantations. By identifying the relationship between gall rust disease and elevation, this research provides insightful information that can be used to improve disease management strategies and create focused control measures. The results provide an in-depth understanding of gall rust disease dynamics and offer recommendations for reducing its impact.

Keywords: disease incidence, disease severity, elevation, Falcataria falcata L., gall rust

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2025-02-21T22:34:06+07:00

2025-02-21T23:22:39+07:00