Conservation and utilization of threatened hardwood species through reforestation - an example of Afzelia xylocarpa (Kruz.) craib and Dalbergia cochinchinensis Pierre in Cambodia

TY - JOUR

T1 - Conservation and utilization of threatened hardwood species through reforestation - an example of Afzelia xylocarpa (Kruz.) craib and Dalbergia cochinchinensis Pierre in Cambodia

AU - So, T.

AU - Theilade, Ida

AU - Dell, B.

PY - 2010

Y1 - 2010

N2 - The leguminaceous rosewoods, Afzelia xylocarpa (Caesalpiniodeae) and Dalbergia cochinchinensis (Faboideae) are threatened by habitat loss and exploitation for their extremely highly-prized timber throughout their range. This paper examines the current conservation status of A. xylocarpa and D. cochinchinensis in Cambodia, draws together information on silviculture and trade, and summarizes current conservation measures in the country. Urgent measures are required to conserve and sustainably use the remaining genetic resources. Opportunities and challenges for achieving these goals, through use of the two threatened species in reforestation, are discussed. The suitability of the species for reforestation combined with increasing domestic and international prices for rosewood provide an opportunity for promotion of the species in planting programmes. This would not only alleviate the pressure on their natural habitats, but also bring about economic benefit. The paper outlines some important steps in the development of domestication strategies including testing and improving silvicultural practices, and increasing the supply of genetically superior seeds from seed production areas and/or seed orchards. As a first step, a network of in situ gene banks has been established in natural forests in Cambodia. A wide range of stakeholders need to participate in such programmes in order to address socio-economic development and poverty reduction. This is in line with the main objective of the National Forest Programme of Cambodia.

AB - The leguminaceous rosewoods, Afzelia xylocarpa (Caesalpiniodeae) and Dalbergia cochinchinensis (Faboideae) are threatened by habitat loss and exploitation for their extremely highly-prized timber throughout their range. This paper examines the current conservation status of A. xylocarpa and D. cochinchinensis in Cambodia, draws together information on silviculture and trade, and summarizes current conservation measures in the country. Urgent measures are required to conserve and sustainably use the remaining genetic resources. Opportunities and challenges for achieving these goals, through use of the two threatened species in reforestation, are discussed. The suitability of the species for reforestation combined with increasing domestic and international prices for rosewood provide an opportunity for promotion of the species in planting programmes. This would not only alleviate the pressure on their natural habitats, but also bring about economic benefit. The paper outlines some important steps in the development of domestication strategies including testing and improving silvicultural practices, and increasing the supply of genetically superior seeds from seed production areas and/or seed orchards. As a first step, a network of in situ gene banks has been established in natural forests in Cambodia. A wide range of stakeholders need to participate in such programmes in order to address socio-economic development and poverty reduction. This is in line with the main objective of the National Forest Programme of Cambodia.

M3 - Journal article

SN - 1038-2097

VL - 16

SP - 101

EP - 116

JO - Pacific Conservation Biology

JF - Pacific Conservation Biology

ER -