Conserving biodiversity, carbon, and community values in a fragmented landscape

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Fragmenting forests into small and isolated areas due to deforestation increases the risk of species loss. Management of fragmented forests is needed to mitigate global warming, diversify income, recycle nutrients and water resources, and provide habitat for many species. One form of forest resulting from fragmentation is customary forests, which are managed by indigenous communities. This study objectives were to ۱) assess the vegetation structure and biodiversity within customary fragmented forests, ۲) evaluate soil characteristics, ۳) estimate their carbon storage potential, and ۴) analyze community perceptions and management practices related to this forest. The goal is to support the sustainable management of customary fragmented forests by providing scientific and social insights to maintain their ecological functions and community benefits.METHODS: The research was conducted in the Imbo Putui Customary Forest in Petapahan Village, Kampar Regency, Riau Province, Indonesia. Observations were conducted on ۱۸ sample plots. Vegetation analysis was conducted to assess stand structure and composition, which formed the basis for calculating carbon stock potential. Biodiversity analysis was performed using open source software, which was used to calculate biodiversity indices (species richness, Shannon-Wienner diversity, and Simpson diversity). The analysis of variance was used for statistical tests comparing biodiversity metrics between tree and pole stage groups. Soil characteristics observed included physical, chemical, and biological aspects. Carbon stock was calculated on above-ground biomass with tree diameters greater than ۱۰ centimeters. Flora and fauna diversity were identified from general literature, and community perceptions were obtained through field surveys using direct interviews.FINDINGS: Five species with the highest importance index are Scorodocarpus borneensis, Syzygium glabratum, Richetia hopeifolia, Santiria oblongifolia, and Xylopia malayana. The Shannon-Wienner index value was ۱.۷۵, indicating relatively high species diversity. Simpson''''''''s index value was ۰.۸ at tree level, indicating relatively lower dominance of some species and higher overall diversity. The soil is classified as Ultisol, which has low fertility and acidity. Cation exchange capacity and soil physical properties are suitable for supporting plant growth and soil water availability. Carbon sequestration potential is significant, with potential above-ground biomass of ۱۷۷.۲۴ tons per hectare and carbon stock of ۸۳.۳۰ t C/ha. Community perceptions are quite good towards conservation and environmental values, with a significance value greater than ۰.۰۵, indicating the same perceptions in all community structures and clusters.CONCLUSION: Imbo Putui Customary Forest is a fragmented forest with relatively high species diversity. The  site’s soil has good physical characteristics to support plant growth and groundwater availability. In general, the forest still has high conservation value,  significant carbon sequestration potential, positive community perceptions, and potential for sustainable use of ecosystem services.

Keywords:

Above-ground Biomass , Community perception , Conservation , Ecosystem services , forest fragmentation , Imbo Putui customary forest