Bamboo processing often generates nodes as residues, which are typically underutilised despite their potential for bioenergy applications. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of charcoal produced from bamboo nodes using a 200 L horizontal kiln, with a focus on its efficiency and contribution to sustainable biomass utilisation. The research analysed charcoal yield, wood vinegar yield, fuel consumption, gross calorific value (GCV), net calorific value (NCV), and the proximate and elemental composition of three bamboo species: Thyrsostachys siamensis, Dendrocalamus sericeus, and Gigantochloa albociliata. Results revealed that G. albociliata nodes produced the highest charcoal yield (23.12 +/- 2.65%) and wood vinegar yield (13.83 +/- 1.91 kg), although with greater fuel consumption (16.83 +/- 1.52 kg). Its charcoal also exhibited superior fuel properties, including the highest density (634.17 +/- 8.73 kg m-3), GCV (31.10 +/- 0.15 MJ kg-1), NCV (28.60 +/- 0.14 MJ kg-1), carbon content (82.26 +/- 1.95%), and fixed carbon (78.95 +/- 1.45%). These findings suggest that bamboo nodes, particularly from G. albociliata, can be effectively converted into high-quality charcoal using a horizontal kiln, offering a promising approach for valorising bamboo residues in renewable energy production.
Mangrove forests are critical blue carbon ecosystems, yet their carbon stocks are influenced by both natural growth and human disturbance. This study presents one of the first comprehensive evaluations of tree structural parameters (density, basal area) and biomass carbon across a disturbance gradient in the Sungai Pulai Forest Reserve, Johor in Malaysia. Six sites were surveyed, ranging from undisturbed upstream (Sungai Redan) to downstream areas affected by infrastructure development, using 10 & times; 10 m plots along 100 m transects. Rhizophora apiculata dominated most sites, while Bruguiera cylindrica, Ceriops tagal, and Xylocarpus granatum were less frequent. Carbon stocks did not vary markedly with disturbance, suggesting resilience and comparable sequestration potential across the sites. Interspecific variation was evident, with Sonneratia and Avicennia spp. storing the highest per-tree carbon due to their large trunk diameter and basal area characteristics. These species-specific differences underscore the importance of maintaining diversity and structural integrity. Our findings provide valuable baseline data for national blue carbon accounting and conservation planning. In order to safeguard the climate mitigation role of Sungai Pulai, further clearing of mangroves must be avoided, and management activities should focus on long-term monitoring to detect subtle ecological changes over time.
This study evaluates hydrological responses under different land uses in the Merawu Sub-Watershed, Central Java, and to update the climate-smart agroforestry (CSAF) strategies for upstream conservation in steep tropical landscapes. A paired small-catchment approach compared a vegetable-dominated slope (Leksana, 16.39 ha) and a coffee-based agroforestry slope (Binangun, 2.63 ha), monitored during consecutive wet seasons (2024-2025). Each catchment was instrumented with 90 degrees V-notch weirs and automated rainfall recorders to quantify event-scale direct runoff, runoff coefficients, and suspended sediment yield (SSY). Despite its steeper terrain, smaller size, and higher circularity, Binangun exhibited a higher runoff coefficient (8.7%) than Leksana (2.3%), indicating faster rainfall-runoff conversion under comparable monsoonal conditions. However, SSY in the coffee-based agroforestry catchment was substantially lower (46 t.ha(-1)) than in the intensive vegetable system (156 t.ha(-1)), representing a reduction of approximately 110 t.ha(-1). This contrast reflects the effectiveness of dense multi-strata canopy cover and integrated soil and water conservation (SWC) practices in enhancing infiltration and sediment retention, even where runoff volumes remain high due to catchment-scale controls. Farmer surveys and field observations revealed widespread adoption of CSAF-aligned practices supported by active local institutions. Overall, the findings demonstrate that in steep tropical uplands, the primary climate-smart benefit of agroforestry lies in erosion and sediment control rather than runoff volume reduction alone. Integrated CSAF packages combining vegetative cover with mechanical and agronomic SWC measures and sustained through strong farmer institutions offer a scalable pathway for resilient upstream watershed conservation while maintaining smallholder livelihoods.
The fruit fly orchid, Bulbophyllum cheiri subspecies cheiri is found in coastal vegetation and lowland tropical rain forest in Southeast Asia. Its flowers attract males of the Oriental fruit fly which are strongly attracted to methyl eugenol (ME) that is found in >450 plant species. This study shows that wild Oriental fruit fly males were not attracted to the non-resupinate fruit fly orchid flower via color nor shape. Instead, male flies were attracted solely to the flowers, when covered by cotton or synthetic fabric, via floral volatiles. Natural pollinarium removal and pollinia deposition were observed; and were exclusively performed by the oriental fruit fly males. Comparison of fly attraction to a day-one or day-two (d-1 or d-2) flower versus a Steiner trap, baited with 6 g commercial ME set 20 m apart in the field showed a significant difference between d-1 and d-2 flowers with ca. 29 and 18% of total captured flies per day, respectively.
This study examined the combustion characteristics of three tropical Malaysian wood species-Keranji, Keruing, and Light Red Meranti-using a cone calorimeter following the ISO 5660-1 standard. The heat release rate (HRR), mass loss rate (MLR), and time to ignition (TTI) were measured under varying fire conditions for each wood species. The results revealed significant differences in the burning behaviour of these species, influenced by their densities and exposure to different heat flux levels. Species with higher densities exhibited elevated HRR and peak heat release rate (PHRR) values, whereas lower-density woods showed decreased MLR values. Additionally, the TTI was longer for woods with higher densities. These findings contribute valuable insights into the combustion properties of tropical wood species, particularly for applications in the construction industry, where understanding fire behaviour is crucial for material selection and safety assessments.
Present study was employed to conserve Xylocarpus granatum using in vitro technique. Nowadays tissue culture is also applied for production of various metabolites in several plant species. However, there is no report on the production of anthocyanin from in vitro study of this species. This investigation was carried out all over the year considering the leaf, internodal and nodal segments as explants for callus induction. These explants were cultured in various media like MS, LS, WPM and X with different combination of plant growth regulators like 2, 4-D, NAA and BA. Considering mangrove, the effect of NaCl at different concentrations like 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 mM on callus initiation, growth and anthocyanin production were also examined. Highest rate of callus and anthocyanin production was achieved with leaf explants collected during monsoon season. The MS medium found to be superior to other medium for callusing with 2.5 mg/L 2, 4-D and 1 mg/L BA in combination and 20mM NaCl addition. Anthocyanin production was exhibited after thirty days of inoculation in same media and plant growth regulator combinations. The addition of NaCl inhibited the anthocyanin production. The total anthocyanin content was 4.5 CV/g fresh weight of callus. During callus culture some globular embryo was also formed which was confirmed by histological studies. The present research gives an opportunity to examine the salt and salinity mechanism, and genetic transformation experiment at cellular level of this species. This protocol found to be very suitable for production of anthocyanin from callus of this species.
The present study highlighted soil and forest biomass carbon stocks in Shorea robusta dominated national park of Bangladesh. Based on the Bangladesh Forest Inventory (Tree and Forest Resources of Bangladesh), soil organic carbon and forest biomass carbon stocks were estimated across five distinct zones (hill, Sal, coastal, Sundarban and village zones). However, these national-level inventories lack the granularity to inform management at the individual protected area, such as the national parks. An assessment was made to estimate soil and forest biomass carbon stocks at Kadigarh National Park (KNP) of Bhaluka Upazila in Mymensingh district, and the data was compared with other land uses and homestead forest adjacent to the national park. The total area of KNP is 344.14 ha. A total of 73 plots representing 20% of the total area of KNP were established for collecting soil samples and data on diameter at breast height (DBH) and height of forest tree species. The soil organic carbon stocks at 0-100 cm soil depth was found to be higher in agricultural field (90.00 +/- 1.95 t ha-1), followed by Syzygium cumini plantation, Tectona grandis plantation and S. robusta forest, and lower in Acacia auriculiformis plantation. The overall soil organic carbon stocks in KNP is 70.00 +/- 1.58 t ha-1 and homestead forest is 62.00 +/- 1.40 t ha-1. The forest biomass in KNP was found to be 347 t ha-1, but maximum biomass was attained in S. cumini plantation (526 t ha-1) due to higher tree density among the other land uses. On the other hand, homestead forest (294 t ha-1) attained minimum amount of forest biomass. The contribution of different carbon pools was also incorporated under the study. Thus, the overall carbon stocks in all carbon pools (above ground biomass, below ground biomass, leaf litter, herb & grass, downed woody debris and soil organic carbon) of KNP is 245.35 t ha-1. Whereas, S. cumini plantation attained maximum carbon stocks (330.94 t ha-1), followed by A. auriculiformis plantation (250.80 t ha-1), S. robusta forest (232.20 t ha-1), T. grandis plantation (225.39 t ha-1) and homestead forest (205.40 t ha-1). Accordingly, the O2 released (460.80 t ha-1) and CO2 mitigation (900.40 t ha-1) was estimated in KNP. The S. cumini plantation attained maximum amount of O2 released (683.90 t ha-1) and CO2 mitigation (1214.50 t ha-1), whereas the homestead forest attained minimum amount of O2 released (383.10 t ha-1) and CO2 mitigation (753.80 t ha-1). The total carbon stocks, O2 released and CO2 mitigation potential of KNP is 84431, 158566 and 309861 t ha-1, respectively according to the areas in KNP. The findings of this research would be useful to develop a legacy of sustainable forest and land resources management policies to protect natural resources for future generations.
The Lecythidaceae family in the Amazon rain forest offers notable technological potential, but its chemical compositions, particularly extractives, are poorly studied. These compounds serve ecological functions, including pollinator attraction and environmental defense, though certain extractives, namely phenols and alkaloids, may be toxic to humans. This study attempted to identify the chemical classes present in the extractives of Lecythidaceae species from the Brazilian Amazon. Samples were collected from secondary forests in Amazonas, Amap & aacute;, and Par & aacute; (Brazil). We obtained the extracts using water and ethanol and they were later analysed for chemical classes via phytochemical and physicochemical tests. The results showed the wood extractives of Eschweilera odora were the richest in chemical classes, including tannins, saponins, steroids, triterpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids, and coumarins, while Couratari stellata and Corythophora rimosa had lower concentrations. These chemical compounds influence the wood's properties, such as density, durability, and resistance to fungi and termites. We also discovered potential toxicological risks posed by certain extractives, which could be harmful to humans. Understanding the chemical composition of Lecythidaceae species, therefore, provides valuable insights into their potential uses in the pharmaceutical, botanical, and chemical industries, while aiding in classification and sustainable utilisation of these Amazonian woods.
Advancements in hybrid laminated composite production have increased the value of bamboo and oil palm trunk (OPT) materials, enabling the development of renewable resource-based composites. This study evaluates the effect of bamboo-OPT configuration on the properties of hybrid laminated bamboo-OPT composites. Two Malaysian commercial bamboo species, namely semeliang (Schizostachyum grande) and semantan (Gigantochloa scortechinii), along with OPT veneer, were used. Various configurations of three-layer laminated mono-species bamboo, OPT, and hybrid bamboo-OPT composites specifically semeliang-OPT (SM-O) and semantan-OPT (SN-O) with dimensions of 9 mm (thickness) & times; 300 mm (width) & times; 300 mm (length) were fabricated using an impregnation modification method with low molecular weight phenol formaldehyde resin (LMwPF). The physical, bonding shear, and mechanical properties of the composites were evaluated. Results showed that the hybrid SM-O composite had the lowest thickness swelling of 1.55% and water absorption of 10.01% after 24 h immersion, indicating superior dimensional stability. In terms of bonding performance, SM-O achieved shear strengths of 2.94 N/mm2 after 24 h soaking and 2.11 N/mm2 after boil-dry-boil treatment, meeting the minimum standard requirement. For mechanical performance, SM-O displayed the highest modulus of rupture (MOR) at 189.08 N/mm2 and modulus of elasticity (MOE) at 28,627 N/mm2, outperforming both mono-species bamboo and OPT composites.
Heritiera fomes Banks is a dominant mangrove species of the Sundarbans and plays a crucial ecological and economic role. However, its chromosomal characteristics remain poorly understood. In this study, cytogenetic analysis was performed on seedlings collected from different regions of the Sundarbans, Bangladesh. Mitotic chromosome analysis revealed a stable somatic chromosome number of 2n = 38, supporting earlier findings and suggesting a basic chromosome number of x = 19. Karyotype analysis showed a predominantly symmetric complement with a karyotype formula of 2n = 34m + 4sm and total chromosome length of 110.16 +/- 2.54 & micro;m. Fluorochrome banding using CMA and DAPI revealed 10 CMA-positive and 12 DAPI-positive bands, mainly distributed in centromeric and terminal regions at the short arms. Heteromorphicity observed in several chromosome pairs indicates minor structural variations such as deletions or duplications. These findings provide the first detailed karyotypic profile of H. fomes in Bangladesh and offer valuable cytogenetic markers for future phylogenetic, evolutionary, and conservation studies.
Malaysia has adopted the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (MTCS/PEFC) Forest Management Certification (FMC) to ensure the forest and forest products are managed sustainably and legally since the 2000s. Although the MTCS/PEFC FMC has been practised in Malaysia for more than two decades, the uptake of the MTCS/PEFC FMC remains relatively low. As of 2022, 53% of natural forests and 16% of plantation forests were certified under the MTCS/PEFC FMC. Thus, this study explores the drivers of adopting the MTCS/PEFC FMC. The face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 MTCS/PEFC FMC valid certificate holders from Peninsular, Sabah and Sarawak. The findings revealed that the six drivers, namely market, signalling, legal, incentive, moral and learning, have been significant drivers in adopting and maintaining the MTCS/PEFC FMC. These findings could contribute to policymaking that encourages further adoption of the MTCS/PEFC FMC.
Hermaphroditism is common in flowering plants, but the presence of unisexual flowers across many taxa, coupled with the combined influence of genetic and environmental factors, makes determining sexual systems challenging. Specifically, androdioecy, where both male and hermaphroditic individuals coexist in the same population, has often been confused with gender diphasy, a strategy in which plants alter their sex expression between seasons. In this study, we investigated the reproductive function of male and hermaphroditic flowers in Eurycoma longifolia (Simaroubaceae) to clarify its sexual system and assess whether it exhibits gender diphasy. Our findings revealed that, while male flowers were present in a notable proportion of individuals relative to hermaphrodites, they also offer significant reproductive advantage in terms of pollen contribution for siring success. Furthermore, E. longifolia displayed low self-pollination rate suggesting predominant outcrossing. The occurrences of sex changes in three individuals in the 2024 flowering season suggests that E. longifolia may not be an androdioecious species, but a possible rare example of gender diphasy.
This study aims to establish an efficient tissue culture protocol for Smilax myosotiflora (ubi jaga) by comparing the effects of semi-solid and liquid (temporary immersion system, TIS) media on shoot multiplication, root induction, and acclimatisation. Semi-solid and liquid media were tested for complete plantlet regeneration. In semi-solid media, 2.0 mg/L BAP induced 67% shoot multiplication with an average of one shoot per explant. In liquid media, over 80% of shoots multiplied, averaging 3.5 shoots per explant at the same BAP concentration. For root induction, half-strength MS semi-solid media with 0.5 mg/L IBA produced 60% rooting, while liquid media yielded only 12% under identical conditions. Acclimatisation in Jiffy 7 (R) showed shoots from liquid media had over 90% survival compared to 52% from semi-solid after 3 weeks. Chemical analysis of leaf extracts from in vitro and one-year-old ex vitro plants detected only low levels of possible caffeic acid derivatives. This is the first optimised in vitro protocol for S. myosotiflora using TIS, offering strong potential for large-scale commercial propagation and serving as a valuable resource for future germplasm conservation initiatives. Overall, the tissue culture protocol used for S. myosotiflora has been successfully established.
The REDD+ is an important tool not only for carbon sequestration potential in natural forests, but also to exploit the enhancement of carbon stocks and sequestration potential in tropical timber tree plantations. To date baseline information on the role of timber species, age group, site variations and environmental factors which control sequestration potential is scarce in Peninsular Malaysia. Thus, this study was to determine the aboveground biomass sequestration potential between 2021 to 2023 on selected forest plantations sites and to estimate the potential price of carbon credits for forest plantations. The mean annual increments of the plantations were determined and the aboveground and belowground biomass change were computed for the study period according to stock change method between two timelines. Aboveground biomass and belowground biomass (roots) changes stand at 0.08-1.60 Mg C ha-1 yr-1 and 0.02-0.43 Mg C ha-1 yr-1, respectively. The total aboveground biomass changes for the timber plantations ranged from 0.10 to 6.72 Mg C ha-1 yr-1 where a mean value of 2.68 CO2e ha-1 yr-1 reported. It is projected that carbon credits that can be sold would range between USD 0.20-3.68 CO2e ton ha-1 yr-1 based on a value of USD 4.7 CO2e ton. The results of this research suggest that tree species, age, management practices, and environmental factors control the carbon accumulation rates and changes of tree plantations.
Eucalyptus plantations play a crucial role in meeting global timber demand, yet the effects of management practices on their growth remain poorly understood. This meta-analysis assesses the impact of eight silvicultural practices on crucial growth indicators in Eucalyptus plantations based on 856 cases. The results show that fertilisation, weeding, land preparation, and irrigation generally boost eucalyptus growth, with mixed planting and intercropping providing moderate benefits. These practices impact diameter growth more than height. Ripping at 0.8 m increased growth by 452.9%, while 0.3 m had no effect. Eucalyptus-specific fertilizer at 1 kg tree-1 increases growth by 4.0%. However, thinning reduces stand volume by 36.2% while enhancing individual growth. Management has a greater impact on seedling-regenerated and younger stands than on coppice-regenerated or mature ones. In plantation forests, growth was 32.3%, far higher than the 6.2% in first-generation coppice forests and 2.0% in second-generation ones. As forests age, the effects of weeding and irrigation diminish, and burning turns negative, while mixed planting and fertilisation continue to promote growth, showing a decreasing trend. This study emphasizes the importance of adaptive management strategies tailored to specific forest conditions to maximize growth and ensure sustainable plantation management.
Engkabang nuts from two Dipterocarpaceae genera, Rubroshorea and Shorea, are collected from semi-managed or wild trees in Borneo to produce oil (tengkawang and terendek oils) and vegetable fat (illipe butter) for own consumption or to be sold locally. Although the nuts of these species display similar fatty acid profiles, the species exhibit diverse morphological and physiological features which are influenced by DNA polymorphisms responsible for the differences in traits among these species. In this study, we determined genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among geographically diverse Engkabang accessions using the Multiplexed Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat Genotyping by Sequencing (MIG-seq) method. A total of 1,160 SNPs was identified in a collection of ninety-six Engkabang accessions of Rubroshorea macrophylla, R. splendida, and Shorea seminis from Sarawak. Genetic diversity analyses, based on the common SNP sites, divided R. macrophylla accessions into two main groups, Central Sarawak and West Sarawak (R. splendida and S. seminis embedded within). Single-nucleotide polymorphisms data generated in this work will facilitate further genetic studies on Engkabang breeding and production of DNA markers.
Fire retardants such as boric acid, Dricon, and others chemical compound are commonly used to reduce the risk of fire in woody materials and structures. By incorporating such multifunctional compounds, manufacturers can enhance product safety while simultaneously cutting down on production expenses. This approach not only improves the overall quality of the materials but also leads to more sustainable practices in the industry. However, these fire retardants also need to provide protection against other destructive agents such as fungi and insects, including termites. Thus, making wood protection more comprehensive and cost-effective. In order to study the potential of fire-retardant chemicals as wood preservatives, boric acid (BA), diammonium phosphate (DAP), Dricon, and monoammonium phosphate (MAP) at various concentrations (15, 20, and 30 concentrations in % w/w solvent-water) were evaluated as termiticides in Malaysian conditions. All treated samples were then subjected to termite resistance tests according to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D3345 method using a subterranean termite, Coptotermes curvignathus (Rhinotermitidae: Isoptera). The results indicated significant variations in the efficacy of each chemical, with certain concentrations demonstrating superior performance in both repelling and eliminating termite populations. The results indicated varying degrees of efficacy, suggesting that certain concentrations could indeed serve dual purposes as both fire retardants and wood preservatives in protecting against termite infestations. Higher termite mortalities were seen in the wood specimens treated with the fire retardants when compared to the control specimens (Hevea brasiliensis). Boric acid and Dricon have great potential as wood preservatives against termites in addition to be used as fire-retardant materials. However, MAP and DAP protected specimens well against termite attack at higher concentration levels tested.
Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. (Indian Rosewood), a high-value tropical hardwood native to the Indian subcontinent, is increasingly threatened by habitat loss, overharvesting, and human disturbances. This study assessed population structure, regeneration dynamics, and the effects of anthropogenic pressures across Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. A total of 262 forest transects revealed pronounced regional differences. Karnataka exhibited high seedling density and mature trees but lacked intermediate-sized individuals, indicating recruitment bottlenecks. Kerala showed high basal area and biomass but poor regeneration due to sparse saplings and poles. Tamil Nadu displayed critically low regeneration, primarily caused by recurrent fires, grazing, and human encroachment. Human Disturbance Index values negatively correlated with regeneration success. These results highlight the urgent need for site-specific conservation strategies, including protection of mature trees, fire and invasive species management, and assisted natural regeneration, to safeguard D. latifolia, sustain ecosystem functions, and ensure its long-term viability across southern India.
Accurate estimation of standing tree volume is vital for effective harvest planning, revenue projection, and ensuring ecological sustainability. However, the commonly used allometric equations in Nepal often overlook species-specific characteristics, resulting in significant discrepancies between estimated and actual volumes. This study compares values derived from standard allometric equations with actual measurements taken after felling in Sal (Shorea robusta) forests of Kapilvastu, Nepal. A total of 1588 trees were analysed to assess the extent and causes of volume estimation errors. The results reveal significant differences between estimated and actual tree heights and volumes, with estimated volumes often exceeding the actual timber yields. These discrepancies are particularly observed in Class I trees, suggesting limitations in current classbased volume adjustment factors. The study also identifies key variables contributing to these inaccuracies, including tree size, measurement method, and operator variability. Statistical analyses, including paired t-tests and ANOVA, confirm the systematic nature of these differences. The findings highlight the need to update or localise allometric models to improve accuracy in volume prediction. This research provides empirical evidence for refining volume estimation practices and supports better-informed decision-making in forest harvesting, ultimately contributing to more sustainable forest management strategies in Nepal and similar ecological settings.
