Encourages submission of manuscripts dealing with all aspects of forestry science, including forest ecology, plantation forestry, biodiversity and wildlife management, forest management, forest plant biology, tree physiology, pest and disease control, information management, soil and water resources, wood sciences and technology, and forest products processing, carbon cycles, climate change, forest fires, small-scale forestry and community forestry, social and economic impacts of forestry, and forestry policy. Scopus (Q3)
Integrating nutrient distribution and use efficiency to develop NUE-based fertilization strategies for Acacia hybrid on tropical peat soils
Abstract. Triatmojo LP, Pulunggono HB, Hidayat Y, Pessotti PRR, Simbolon DR, Santos VDM, Siregar STH, Sandoval AJD, Hasibuan KA, Suparmanto A, Chakim L. 2026. Integrating nutrient distribution and use efficiency to develop NUE-based fertilization strategies for Acacia hybrid on tropical peat soils. Asian J For 10 (1): r100128. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100128. This study evaluated nutrient distribution and Nutrient Use Efficiency (NUE) of Acacia hybrid grown on tropical peat soils to support nutrient management for subsequent rotations. The assessment integrated stand characteristics, biomass nutrient partitioning, harvest residue return, and nutrient balance estimation. Results showed that although the merchantable stem accounted for the largest proportion of total biomass, more than half of both macro- and micronutrients were retained in unmerchantable components, including bark, branches, leaves, and roots. This distribution indicates that nutrient capital is largely stored outside the harvested stem. Post-harvest estimates further demonstrated that residue retention returns a substantial proportion of nutrients to the site, confirming the significant role of harvest residues in internal nutrient cycling on peat soils. NUE analysis revealed contrasting nutrient utilization patterns among elements. Phosphorus showed high efficiency in supporting stem biomass production, whereas nitrogen exhibited lower efficiency, consistent with the species’ nitrogen-fixing capacity and high nitrogen accumulation in biomass. Among base cations, comparatively lower balance margins were identified for potassium, sulfur, calcium, and magnesium when harvest residue inputs, NUE, and soil nutrient status were integrated. The nutrient balance assessment projected that most nutrients remain sufficient to sustain the next rotation under residue retention, while potassium, sulfur, calcium, and magnesium may require closer management attention. These findings demonstrate that residue conservation is essential for maintaining nutrient supply in tropical peat plantations and that fertilization strategies should prioritize nutrients with lower projected balance margins rather than applying uniform nutrient inputs.
Acacia hybrid, biomass, NUE, peatland, phosphorus
Copyright (c) 2026 LEO PAMUNGKAS TRIATMOJO, HERU BAGUS PULUNGGONO, YAYAT HIDAYAT, PAULO ROBERTO ROSSIN PESSOTTI, DAVID RICARDO SIMBOLON, VINICIUS DE MOURA SANTOS, SABAR T. H. SIREGAR, ALVARO J. DURAN SANDOVAL, KHAIRUL ABROR HASIBUAN, ANDHI SUPARMANTO, LUKMAN CHAKIM https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Estimating mangrove aboveground biomass using Sentinel-2A Vegetation Indices in a tropical coastal ecosystem on the east coast of North Sumatra, Indonesia
Abstract. Samsuri, Sipahutar RA, Zaitunah A, Samsura A, Budiharta S, Sulistioadi B. 2026. Estimating mangrove aboveground biomass using Sentinel-2A Vegetation Indices in a tropical coastal ecosystem on the east coast of North Sumatra, Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100131. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100131. Mangrove forests play a vital role in mitigating climate change by sequestering significant amounts of carbon; however, reliably estimating aboveground biomass (AGB) across large, heterogeneous coastal areas remains challenging. The study evaluates the performance of Sentinel-2A satellite imagery in deriving the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI), and Transformed Vegetation Index (TVI) for modeling mangrove AGB in the east coast of North Sumatra, Indonesia. A total of 41 field plot samples were integrated with satellite-derived NDVI, GNDVI, and TVI using regression modeling. Regression analyses demonstrate that models based on GNDVI consistently outperform those based on NDVI and TVI. The best-performing model, a GNDVI-based power function (y = 23.29x³·¹⁵⁸⁵), achieved an R² of 0.60 with a relatively low prediction error (RMSE = 0.70). The spatial application of the selected model revealed an average mangrove AGB of 249.06 t ha-¹, with the highest biomass of 510.68 t ha-¹ in dense stands, indicating a relatively high carbon storage potential. The superior performance of GNDVI is attributed to its greater sensitivity to chlorophyll content in dense, multilayered mangrove canopies, where NDVI tends to saturate. These findings highlight the robustness of GNDVI for estimating mangrove biomass and underscore the utility of Sentinel-2 imagery for carbon stock assessment. The study demonstrates that Sentinel-2-based GNDVI modeling provides a reliable and cost-effective approach for large-scale mangrove biomass estimation, supporting improved carbon assessment and climate mitigation strategies.
Blue carbon, carbon absorption, forest inventory, Sentinel-2A, Vegetation Index
Copyright (c) 2026 SAMSURI, RIZKY AMELIA SIPAHUTAR, ANITA ZAITUNAH, ARY SAMSURA, SUGENG BUDIHARTA, BUDI SULISTIOADI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Twenty-nine years of forest recovery following selective logging as evidenced by a two-census resurvey in lowland Leuser Sumatra Indonesia
Abstract. Iqbar I, Djufri D, Darusman D, Syaukani S. 2026. Twenty-nine years of forest recovery following selective logging as evidenced by a two-census resurvey in lowland Leuser Sumatra Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100124. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100124. Secondary forests are increasingly common across tropical regions following selective logging, yet long-term evidence of their successional dynamics remains limited, particularly in lowland dipterocarp forests of Sumatra. This study examines changes in tree species composition and stand structure based on a two-census resurvey conducted six years (2000) and twenty-nine years (2022) after logging in two permanent sample plots (0.5 ha total) at the Soraya Research Station, Leuser Ecosystem, Indonesia. Floristic composition, species dominance, diversity, and structural attributes were analysed using the Importance Value Index (IVI), Shannon diversity, and diameter and height distributions. Tree density increased from 602 to 704 individuals ha⁻¹ over the 23-year interval, while species richness declined slightly from 95 to 88 species. A total of 142 species were recorded across both censuses, with only 14 species shared, indicating high species turnover within a limited sampling area. Shannon diversity decreased marginally (3.9 to 3.7), while evenness remained consistently high (0.84–0.83). Floristic similarity between censuses was low (Sørensen = 15.2%). Diameter distribution in the 29-year forest displayed an inverted J-shape, reflecting ongoing recruitment, although large-diameter trees remained scarce. These results indicate that structural recovery is progressing, whereas species composition continues to shift. The increasing importance of dipterocarp species suggests progression towards later successional stages, although compositional stabilization has not yet been achieved. This study underscores the importance of long-term resurvey data for understanding recovery processes in selectively logged tropical forests.
DBH structure, floristic composition, forest succession, Importance Value Index, Leuser Ecosystem
Copyright (c) 2026 IQBAR IQBAR, DJUFRI DJUFRI, DARUSMAN DARUSMAN, Syaukani Syaukani, SYAUKANI SYAUKANI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Land suitability assessment for mangrove-based silvofishery in North Sumatra, Indonesia
Abstract. Risdayanti, Basyuni M, Aththorick TA. 2026. Land suitability assessment for mangrove-based silvofishery in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100130. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100130. Silvofishery integrates mangrove conservation with brackish-water aquaculture and is increasingly promoted as a sustainable alternative to conventional pond systems in Indonesia. However, site-specific evaluations of biophysical land suitability remain limited. This study aimed to assess land suitability for mangrove-based silvofishery in Pasar Rawa Village, Langkat District, North Sumatra, Indonesia, by integrating vegetation structure, soil characteristics, water quality parameters, and a weighted scoring land-evaluation approach. Mangrove vegetation was surveyed using three perpendicular transects with 21 nested plots (10×10 m trees; 5×5 m saplings; 1×1 m seedlings). Soil (0-30 cm) and water samples were collected from the inlet, outlet, and pond interior compartments. Five mangrove species were recorded, dominated by Rhizophora apiculata and Sonneratia alba. Total densities reached 257.1 ind/ha (trees), 3,219.1 ind/ha (saplings), and 833.3 ind/ha (seedlings), indicating active regeneration. Water quality showed a mean temperature of 28.6°C, salinity of 15.0 ppt, pH of 6.5, and dissolved oxygen of 8.7 mg/L, within acceptable ranges for silvofishery. Soil analysis revealed moderately acidic conditions as the primary limiting factor. The weighted scoring system yielded a suitability index of 75.75%, classifying the area as Highly Suitable (S1). Acidic soil pH and suboptimal stand density were identified as manageable constraints. These findings provide a practical decision-support framework for restoration-based silvofishery planning and support evidence that maintaining mangrove cover does not compromise aquaculture productivity.
Land suitability, mangrove, silvofishery, wanamina, weighted scoring
Copyright (c) 2026 RISDAYANTI, MOHAMMAD BASYUNI, T. ALIEF ATHTHORICK https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Variation of soil temperature and moisture in tropical land-uses
Abstract. Karyati, Syafrudin M, Karmini, Afreliana AM, Wahyuni NS. 2026. Variation of soil temperature and moisture in tropical land-uses. Asian J For 10 (1): r100126. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100126. Soil temperature and moisture are key microclimatic variables that influence soil processes, plant growth, and ecosystem sustainability. Land-use change and soil depth are among the main factors affecting these dynamics, particularly in tropical urban areas. This study aimed to examine the variations of soil temperature and humidity across different land uses (sengon plantations, shrublands, and residential areas) at varying soil depths (0-10 cm, 20-30 cm, 50-60 cm, and 90-100 cm). Soil temperature and moisture data were collected using an environmental meter over a 30-day observation period. Soil microclimatic conditions in sengon plantations are more favorable, with lower temperatures and higher moisture levels across various soil depths than in shrublands and residential areas. As the soil depth increases, soil temperature decreases, whereas soil moisture increases. Statistical analysis shows significant differences in soil temperature and moisture across land uses and soil depths. The results indicate that sengon plantations create a cooler, moister soil microclimate than shrublands and residential areas across various soil depths, suggesting their potential role to improve soil water retention, reduce heat stress, and support sustainable land management. Incorporating sengon plantations into land-use planning may help enhance soil resilience, agricultural productivity, and local climate adaptation. Information on soil temperature and moisture across various land uses and depths is important for understanding the condition of the plant root zone and can inform fertilization plans, plant growth, and more efficient, sustainable land management.
Agroforestry microclimate, soil depth, soil moisture, soil temperature, urban ecosystem
Copyright (c) 2026 KARYATI, MUHAMMAD SYAFRUDIN, KARMINI, AFTRI MARISKA AFRELIANA, NIKE SRI WAHYUNI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The mediating role of community trust in institutional readiness for sustainable mangrove forest rehabilitation
Abstract. Mohta G, Sadjati E, Suhada N, Roflimas. 2026. The mediating role of community trust in institutional readiness for sustainable mangrove forest rehabilitation. Asian J For 10 (1): r100123. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100123. Mangrove rehabilitation plays a crucial role in sustaining mangrove forests, coastal ecological functions, and socio-ecological resilience. However, its long-term success depends not only on technical aspects but also on the institutional readiness of local community organizations. This study examines the relationships among government support, initial community participation, and the institutional readiness of Forest Farmer Groups (KTH), with community trust as a mediating variable, in community-based mangrove rehabilitation in Pasir Limau Kapas Village, Indonesia. A census survey of 68 KTH members was conducted and analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results showed that government support had a positive effect on both trust and institutional readiness, and exerted an indirect effect through trust as a partial mediator. Community trust significantly strengthened institutional readiness, while initial participation did not significantly affect trust, although it directly influenced institutional readiness. These findings indicate that mangrove rehabilitation success is more strongly determined by governance quality, institutional support, and trust-building than by initial participation alone, with direct implications for sustainable mangrove management and ecological functions. This study contributes by explicitly positioning trust as a mediating mechanism linking government support and institutional readiness, extending the social-ecological systems framework. Practically, it highlights the importance of strengthening local institutions through clear roles, secure land access, and continuous facilitation. However, the cross-sectional design and single study site limit the generalizability of the findings.
Community-based mangrove management, forest governance, institutional readiness, mangrove forest rehabilitation, social forestry
Copyright (c) 2026 GANDHIKO MOHTA, EMY SADJATI, NUR SUHADA, ROFLIMAS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Durability and economic viability of Neolamarckia cadamba and Falcataria falcata for composite wood production
Abstract. Alamsyah EM, Sembada AA, Abdullah AF, Suhaya Y, Sutrisno, Darwis A, Sumardi I, Yustiana Y, Malik J, Munawar SS. 2026. Durability and economic viability of Neolamarckia cadamba and Falcataria falcata for composite wood production. Asian J For 10 (1): r100125. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100125. The suitability of fast-growing tropical species for composite wood production depends on both biological durability and economic feasibility; however, empirical studies integrating these aspects remain limited. In Indonesia, Neolamarckia cadamba (jabon) and Falcataria falcata (sengon) are widely planted, yet their comparative performance in composite applications is insufficiently understood. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the natural durability and economic viability of both species in solid wood and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) forms. Biological durability was assessed using a 3-month soil burial test conducted in accordance with ASTM standards, supported by visual deterioration ratings and statistical analysis. Economic performance was analysed based on timber transaction records from the West Java Provincial Forestry Department and raw material cost calculations. Results showed that sengon exhibited significantly lower weight loss than jabon in both solid and LVL forms (p < 0.05), with approximately 45-55% lower mass loss, indicating greater resistance to subterranean termites and decay fungi. LVL products of both species experienced slightly higher deterioration than solid wood, likely due to adhesive interface exposure and increased moisture penetration. Market analysis revealed that sengon dominates regional timber supply and displays wider price variability, reflecting high availability and strong demand, whereas jabon showed limited supply and higher, more concentrated prices. Cost analysis further indicated that producing one cubic meter of composite material from jabon requires approximately 26% higher raw material costs than sengon. Overall, the findings demonstrate that sengon offers a more favorable balance between durability and economic efficiency, supporting its broader suitability for composite wood production and industrial scaling.
Biological durability, composite wood, Falcataria falcata, laminated veneer lumber, Neolamarckia cadamba
Copyright (c) 2026 EKA MULYA ALAMSYAH, ANCA AWAL SEMBADA, AHMAD FAWWAZ ABDULLAH, YOYO SUHAYA, SUTRISNO, ATMAWI DARWIS, IHAK SUMARDI, YOOCE YUSTIANA, JAMALUDIN MALIK, SASA SOFYAN MUNAWAR https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Land cover dynamics and surface water quality conditions in the Upper Wampu Watershed, Indonesia
Abstract. Darnianti, Rauf A, Rahmawaty, Mulya MB, Delvian, Rahmanta. 2026. Land cover dynamics and surface water quality conditions in the Upper Wampu Watershed, Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100121. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100121. Land cover variation in upstream watersheds is spatially associated with differences in observed surface water quality characteristics. This study evaluates land cover dynamics between 2017 and 2024 and examines surface water quality conditions in the Upper Wampu Watershed, Karo District, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Land cover mapping utilized pre-classified 10 m Sentinel Land Cover datasets, validated using 10 independent points which yielded a localized accuracy of 90%. Water quality was assessed at 10 spatially distributed sampling stations using physicochemical and microbiological parameters and evaluated against Class II surface water standards set forth in Government Regulation No. 22 of 2021, serving as a raw water source for drinking water treatment. Forest cover increased slightly (+1.91%), built-up areas expanded markedly (+29.04%), cropland increased moderately (+4.72%), and grassland declined substantially (-36.80%), while water bodies remained relatively stable. Exceedances were observed for Total Suspended Solids (TSS), color, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), ammonia, and iron, whereas microbiological parameters remained below regulatory limits. Using Exploratory Spatial Data Analysis (ESDA), specifically spatial overlay and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) clustering, the study identified spatial patterns in which settlement-dominated areas coincided with higher microbiological concentrations, while agriculturally dominated areas coincided with elevated organic indicators. These findings describe spatial associations rather than causal effects and are interpreted within the exploratory scope of the study. The river remains suitable as a source for drinking water treatment under current conditions, although continued monitoring is recommended to account for ongoing land-use change.
Exploratory Spatial Data Analysis, land cover dynamics, Sentinel land cover, surface water quality, watershed management
Copyright (c) 2026 DARNIANTI, ABDUL RAUF, RAHMAWATY, MISWAR BUDI MULYA, DELVIAN, RAHMANTA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Preferences, use, and value of forest products in Bardia National Park, Nepal
Abstract. Acharya KR, Devkota BP, Silwal T. 2026. Preferences, use, and value of forest products in Bardia National Park, Nepal. Asian J For 10 (1): r100119. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100119. Agrarian communities living near protected areas, especially in developing countries worldwide, are highly dependent on park resources to meet their subsistence needs. Buffer zones, in and around protected areas, are established to achieve dual aims: fulfilling local communities’ forest needs and conserving biodiversity. This study investigates the community preferences, uses, and values of park resources in the buffer zone of the Bardia National Park, Nepal. A household survey (n=531) of ten buffer-zone community forest user groups from November 2023 to February 2024, supplemented by direct observation of the khar-khadai (i.e., grass cutting) event in 2024. Logistic regression and chi-square test (χ²) were used to identify possible socioeconomic and institutional factors that affected households’ interest in extracting park resources. The results reveal that 63.7% of respondents showed an interest in collecting forest products, with significant differences by ethnicity (β = 0.399, p < 0.001) and community forest membership (β=-0.152, p<0.010). Tharu and disadvantaged Dalit households showed greater interest in accessing park resources than other ethnic groups. Forest users from buffer-zone community forests with better forest conditions (χ²=95.233, df=9, p<0.001) showed lower interest in entering the national park. Fuelwood was identified as the most preferred forest product, followed by thatch grass, grass cane and Sabai grass. Timber was found to be the least preferred forest product collected from the national park. Despite increased availability of alternatives, forest product collection from national parks remained significant for Tharu and Dalit households, for whom buffer-zone community forests could not meet the demand. This study recommends that sustainable forest management practices be promoted in buffer-zone community forests to address the unmet needs of local users by maintaining equitable access to resources and promoting alternative resources.
Buffer zone community forest, fuelwood, Khar-Khadai permit, protected area, subsistence use
Copyright (c) 2026 KESHAV RAJ ACHARYA, BINOD PRASAD DEVKOTA, THAKUR SILWAL https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Mapping dominant mangrove genera using SPOT-6 imagery and Maximum Likelihood Classification for conservation planning in Langsa City, Aceh, Indonesia
Abstract. Rahmadi MT, Damayani WN, Harefa MS. 2026. Mapping dominant mangrove genera using SPOT-6 imagery and Maximum Likelihood Classification for conservation planning in Langsa City, Aceh, Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100120. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100120. Mangrove forests are among the world's most productive and ecologically significant coastal ecosystems, providing essential services such as shoreline stabilization, carbon sequestration, and habitat provision. Indonesia accounts for approximately 19.5% of the global mangrove area, underscoring its critical role in coastal resilience and in supporting coastal communities. Despite their importance, these ecosystems face increasing pressures from anthropogenic activities, land-use change, and climate change, necessitating accurate and up-to-date information for effective monitoring and restoration planning. While remote sensing is indispensable, mangrove mapping at the genus level remains limited. Such detailed data are essential for robust zoning-based conservation planning and targeted strategies. This study addresses this gap by characterizing the distribution of dominant mangrove genera in Langsa City, Aceh, an area with mangrove representation. Utilizing high-resolution SPOT-6 imagery and the Maximum Likelihood Classification method, supported by comprehensive field validation with 30 control points, we produced a genus-level classification map. The total mangrove area identified in Langsa City is 5,837.46 ha, distributed across five sub-districts. Based on the classification and field data, three dominant mangrove genera were reliably identified: Rhizophora (2,216.01 ha), Avicennia (2,086.34 ha), and Ceriops (1,535.11 ha), which collectively account for 95% of the mangrove area, with Rhizophora being the most dominant. The overall accuracy and kappa coefficient achieved were 83% and 76%, respectively, indicating robust and reliable mapping results. This up-to-date, genus-level spatial information is invaluable for effective, zoning-based mangrove management, targeted conservation planning, and sustainable resource utilization in Langsa City and similar coastal regions. The findings underscore the potential of high-resolution SPOT-6 imagery for precise mapping of mangrove genera and support evidence-based conservation efforts.
Genus-level classification, Langsa City, mangrove mapping, remote sensing, SPOT 6
Copyright (c) 2026 M. TAUFIK RAHMADI, WANDA NELWITA DAMAYANI, MEILINDA SURIANI HAREFA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Optimization of wood waste from logging concession for local communities in tropical forest in Indonesia
Abstract. Ruslim Y, Sari DR, Kristiningrum R, Purwanti E, Malik FB. 2026. Optimization of wood waste from logging concession for local communities in tropical forest in Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100106. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100106. Timber harvesting in selective logging in tropical forest often produces significant amount of wood wastes which arises due to technical errors in the field and inappropriate planning. Instead of being left in the forest, harvesting waste might be utilized by local community, but this optimization might need information on the classification and potential use of wood waste. This study aims to determine the amount of timber harvesting waste generated by logging concession and identify the potential utilization of wood waste for the surrounding community for subsistence and small scale commercial needs. The study was conducted at a logging concession in Berau District, East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia, with wood wastes were collected at six felling plots totalling six ha and two log landing areas (TPn). The most prevalent waste type in the felling plots was tree stump with a volume of 24.58 m3, followed by tree tip, base, buttress stump waste, broken stems, and wood knots with 22.44 m3, 21.63 m3, 4.18 m3, 3.5 m3, and 0.48 m3, respectively. The wood waste found at the landing site (TPn) was predominantly red meranti, with volume of 22.69 m3. The results of interviews to local communities indicated logging waste can be utilized for a range of applications, including the production of building materials, handicrafts, furniture, bioenergy, boats, household appliances, and traditional furniture. A study on the efficiency of wood waste from logging concessions and the legal framework surrounding its utilization is necessary to ensure that the use of wood waste by local communities remains both effective and compliant with legal regulations.
Collaboration, empowerment, regulation, socio and economic, wood harvesting waste
Copyright (c) 2026 YOSEP RUSLIM, DIAH RAKHMAH SARI, ROCHADI KRISTININGRUM, EMI PURWANTI, FRISKA BUNGAN MALIK https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Urban flood susceptibility and riparian vegetation using GLM-based spatial modelling from vegetation cover in Samarinda, Indonesia
Abstract. Naufalianto IF, Madjid MIN, Fauzan MRN, Sidiq AR. 2026. Urban flood susceptibility and riparian vegetation using GLM-based spatial modelling from vegetation cover in Samarinda, Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100115. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100115. Urban flooding in tropical cities is increasingly shaped by land-cover change, yet the contribution of urban vegetation to flood susceptibility remains poorly quantified. This study mapped flood susceptibility in Samarinda, Indonesia, using a Generalized Linear Model (GLM) fitted to 123 spatially thinned flood-presence points derived from georeferenced online reports and 1,000 pseudo-absence points (1:8). Open-source covariates were derived from Sentinel-2 and SRTM, including Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), elevation, and built-up occurrence frequency. After screening for multicollinearity and selecting the best minimal model, flood occurrence was negatively associated with EVI and elevation and positively associated with built-up frequency. Model discrimination was high (AUC = 0.959 in a 70/30 split) and remained consistent under spatial block cross-validation, with predictions interpreted as relative susceptibility rather than event-based hydrological simulation. Predicted high susceptibility was concentrated along low-lying river corridors and densely built zones, whereas vegetated and elevated areas exhibited lower susceptibility. Jenks classification indicated 4.74% of the study area in the high class. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining urban vegetation cover, particularly urban riparian forests and green belts, as a nature-based component of flood-risk reduction. The susceptibility map can be used as a consideration for urban forestry planning by prioritizing riparian forest conservation and restoration in river-corridor segments with high predicted susceptibility.
Crowd-sourced data, flood susceptibility, Generalized Linear Model (GLM), urban flood, urban riparian forest
Copyright (c) 2026 IKHSAN FIQRA NAUFALIANTO, MUHAMMAD IQBAL NUR MADJID, MUHAMMAD RAFII NUR FAUZAN, ABDUL RAHMAN SIDIQ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Intergenerational adaptation in a shifting landscape through Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and forest beekeeping
Abstract. Wijayanti ARY, Arafat A, Nurhikmah. 2026. Intergenerational adaptation in a shifting landscape through Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and forest beekeeping. Asian J For 10 (1): r100114. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100114. This article aims to analyze how Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) related to forest beekeeping livelihoods is inherited, transformed, and negotiated across generations under social forestry arrangements. Focusing on the Buttu Puang community forest farmers group (KTH) in Tappina Village, Binuang Sub-district, Polewali Mandar District, West Sulawesi, Indonesia, the study employs a qualitative case study approach grounded in Berkes' corpus-praxis-cosmos framework. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis to examine intergenerational dynamics of ecological knowledge, forest management practices, and symbolic values amid socio-ecological change, involving 26 community members engaged in forest beekeeping, processing, and related activities. The findings indicate that TEK in forest beekeeping is not a static knowledge system but a dynamic and adaptive process shaped by changes in forest access, market rationalities, and shifting intergenerational values. While core ecological knowledge regarding forest flora and honeybee behavior remains relatively stable, intergenerational differences are evident in the modification of management practices and the reinterpretation of symbolic meanings. Knowledge transmission occurs through selective, situational, and negotiated processes rather than linear inheritance. These patterns indicate that continuity and change coexist within TEK, mediated through ongoing intergenerational negotiation rather than simple erosion or preservation. The study contributes to forestry and ethnobiology scholarship by demonstrating that the resilience of forest-based livelihoods under social forestry arrangements depends on maintaining social and ecological spaces that enable intergenerational learning and knowledge negotiation. Policy implications suggest that social forestry initiatives should move beyond preservation-oriented approaches and actively support adaptive, intergenerationally grounded knowledge systems to sustain community-based forest management.
Forest beekeeping, forest management, intergenerational negotiation, traditional ecological knowledge, value transmission
Copyright (c) 2026 ANDI RIDHA YAYANK WIJAYANTI, ANDI ARAFAT, NURHIKMAH https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Forest quality decline and restoration priorities in Indonesia’s New Capital Region
Abstract. Irfaddien R, Kiswanto, Herlambang H, Anwar S, Farahdita WL. 2026. Forest quality decline and restoration priorities in Indonesia’s New Capital Region. Asian J For 10 (1): r100108. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100108. Rapid development in the Capital City of Nusantara (IKN), East Kalimantan, Indonesia, is occurring within a landscape that still contains extensive humid tropical forest. This study quantifies spatiotemporal Land Cover change (2016-2025) and evaluates landscape-scale ecosystem condition using a Land Cover Quality Index (LCQI) derived from Sentinel-2 imagery, complemented by a DPSIR (Driving force–Pressure–State–Impact–Response) synthesis to frame restoration and management priorities. Land cover was mapped into 10 classes using a Random Forest classifier, achieving an overall accuracy of 85.2% (κ=0.82). Total forest cover decreased from 181,656 ha (70.8%) in 2016 to 138,700 ha (54.1%) in 2025 (-43,000 ha), including primary forest loss of 36,500 ha (-3,650 ha yr-1) and a marked increase in degraded forest (256 to 20,600 ha). Shrubland expanded by 32,600 ha, while built-up area increased from 8,400 to 27,200 ha. Consistent with these transitions, LCQI declined from 71.3 to 54.8, falling below the degradation threshold (≤65), a commonly used screening benchmark in environmental quality assessments. Hotspot analysis identified concentrated forest loss along infrastructure corridors in the northern and eastern parts of IKN, as well as near mining and river-valley conversion fronts. Insights from key-informant interviews (n=25) suggest that capital relocation, associated population growth, and investment flows are prominent drivers associated with land-conversion pressures. We do not directly measure biodiversity responses in the field; therefore, biodiversity implications are inferred from established relationships between forest loss/fragmentation and species viability. The driver–pressure linkages framed in the DPSIR framework should be interpreted as a structured synthesis of evidence and stakeholder perspectives rather than experimentally demonstrated causation. Accordingly, results are presented as spatial risk indicators to support restoration prioritization rather than as observed biological outcomes. Spatially explicit priorities include protecting remaining primary-forest blocks, rehabilitating degraded forest and shrubland-transition areas, and institutionalizing periodic LCQI-based monitoring to support the Forest City vision.
DPSIR, ecosystem restoration, forest habitat, Land Cover Quality Index, Nusantara Capital City
Copyright (c) 2026 REZHA IRFADDIEN, KISWANTO, HERU HERLAMBANG, SAIFUL ANWAR, WANDA LARAS FARAHDITA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Wood physical and mechanical properties of rambai (Baccaurea motleyana), a tropical fruit tree species
Abstract. Dayadi I, Ridho MR. 2026. Wood physical and mechanical properties of rambai (Baccaurea motleyana), a tropical fruit tree species. Asian J For 10: r100103. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100103. This study evaluated the physical and mechanical properties of rambai (Baccaurea motleyana) wood to assess its potential as a timber resource in multipurpose fruit-timber systems. Small clear specimens were prepared from the base, middle, and top section of three mature rambai trees (diameter at breast height 38-44 cm) grown in a private garden, and tested for physical and mechanical properties following the Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN) standards. The results showed that rambai wood has Green Moisture Content (GMC) of 104.98±9.20%, decreasing significantly from the base toward the top of the stem. Apparent density at ~12% MC averaged 0.62±0.04 g/cm3 and did not differ significantly among axial positions of the stem. Shrinkage behaviour was typical of hardwoods, with tangential and radial shrinkage of about 5.9% and 3.8%, respectively, and a tangential–radial ratio of 1.59±0.28, indicating satisfactory dimensional stability. Mean mechanical properties across the whole stem were 9.52±1.49 GPa for MOE, 85.16±11.28 MPa for MOR, 51.69±5.69 MPa for compression parallel to grain. Impact bending strength and shear strength averaged 7.26±1.65 J/cm2 and 11.81±1.35 MPa, respectively. Overall, these values characterize B. motleyana as a medium grade hardwood with physical and mechanical properties compatible with potential usein furniture, interior joinery and light construction, while further studies on durability, workability and anatomical characteristics are needed to provide stronger support to its promotion as a lesser-known tropical wood resource from fruit-timber systems.
Agroforestry, Baccaurea motleyana, lesser-known species, multipurpose plant, strength classes
Copyright (c) 2026 IRVIN DAYADI, MUHAMMAD ROSYID RIDHO https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Morphometric characteristics of the endemic stingless bee Wallacetrigona incisa at different altitudes in North Luwu, Indonesia
Abstract. Rahman A, Nuraeni S, Sadapotto A, Prastiyo A. 2026. Morphometric characteristics of the endemic stingless bee Wallacetrigona incisa at different altitudes in North Luwu, Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100105. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100105. The endemic stingless bee Wallacetrigona incisa is one of the important pollinator species in the Wallacea Region, contributing to the pollination of forest and agricultural plants. However, information regarding its morphological variations remains very limited, particularly in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. This study provides a novel approach to examining the morphometric characteristics of W. incisa as a basis for understanding its morphology. This research aimed to analyze the differences in morphometric traits of W. incisa at three altitudinal levels in North Luwu. Sampling was conducted purposively at lowland, midland, and highland sites with a total of 90 individual bees. Data analysis included One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Pearson correlation, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to determine relationships and grouping patterns among morphometric traits. ANOVA results showed that altitude had a significant effect (p<0.05) on several key morphometric traits, including Body Length (BL), Malar Length (ML), Hind Femur Length (HFL), and Hind Tibia Width (HTW), with the largest mean body size observed in highland populations. Pearson correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships among several morphometric traits, particularly between body size and hind leg dimensions (r>0.70, p<0.05). PCA indicated that morphometric traits cluster according to altitudinal groups, suggesting structured variation by altitude and morphological potential. PC1 covers 38.45% of the variation in bee morphometric data, while PC2 covers 12.55%. Average body size increases with height, indicating a morphological response to altitudinal and environmental differences. This study provides a scientific basis for considering elevation variations in North Luwu, thus supporting the determination of key habitats and efforts to maintain endemic stingless populations.
Body size, habitat, morphological response, pollinator, Wallacetrigona incisa
Copyright (c) 2026 ABD. RAHMAN, SITTI NURAENI, ANDI SADAPOTTO, ANDI PRASTIYO https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Valuing mangrove ecosystem services in Dumai, Indonesia, for conservation and policy
Abstract. Insusanty E, Mulyadi A, Efriyeldi, Warningsih T. 2025. Valuing mangrove ecosystem services in Dumai, Indonesia, for conservation and policy. Asian J For 9: 428-439. Mangrove ecosystems deliver diverse services that are vital for ecological stability and human well-being, encompassing provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural functions. Despite their importance, the economic value of these ecosystems is often undervalued, leading to inadequate conservation efforts. This study estimates the Total Economic Value (TEV) of mangrove ecosystem services in Dumai City, Indonesia, by applying a combination of valuation approaches: market price (effect on production), benefit transfer, individual travel cost, and contingent valuation methods. The estimated TEV of mangrove ecosystem services is approximately Rp 110.95 billion annually. Regulating services contribute the largest share (49.25%), primarily from carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and seawater intrusion control. Provisioning services account for 40.19%, mainly from fisheries and firewood, while supporting services (3.15%) and cultural services (7.41%) provide additional ecological and socio-cultural benefits. These results demonstrate that mangroves play a critical role in sustaining livelihoods and maintaining ecological balance in Dumai. Recognizing their substantial economic value can strengthen evidence-based coastal management, promote the implementation of Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES), and support long-term conservation policies that balance ecological integrity with socio-economic development.
Dumai City, economic valuation, ecosystem services, mangrove ecosystem
Copyright (c) 2026 ENNY INSUSANTY, ARAS MULYADI, EFRIYELDI, TRISLA WARNINGSIH https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effects of post-mining land reclamation on heavy metal distribution in South Tapanuli, Indonesia
Abstract. Anwar S, Mansor AB, Haris H, Dharsono M, Lubis A. 2025. Effects of post-mining land reclamation on heavy metal distribution in South Tapanuli, Indonesia. Asian J For 9: 410-417. Ecological restoration plays a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of gold mining on soil quality and ecosystem stability. This study evaluated the long-term dynamics of heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu) in post-mining reclaimed land at the Martabe Gold Mine in Indonesia. Soil samples (0-20 cm) were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and the data were assessed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The results revealed temporal fluctuations in heavy metal concentrations, with initial increases during the early restoration stages and consistent declines by 2024. These declines were influenced by the development of vegetation, particularly fast-growing species such as Falcataria falcata, Samanea saman and Gmelina arborea, as well as microclimatic improvements that enhanced soil redox balance, organic matter accumulation, and pH stabilization. The PCA results showed that the first two components explained 58% of the variation in heavy metals, with Fe, Cu, and Zn clustering and Mn forming a distinct axis, reflecting differences in metal behavior under changing soil conditions. Sites with high Fe-Cu-Zn levels (ZD and BD) indicated less effective reclamation, whereas others (HD, EM, and LD3) displayed balanced metal levels consistent with successful restoration. This six-year monitoring highlights the novelty of assessing tropical post-mining reclamation over an extended timescale, linking vegetation recovery and microclimatic changes to heavy metal reduction, and offers practical implications for forestry-based reclamation and sustainable land management.
Heavy metal, martabe, metal influence, phytoremediation, reclamation
Copyright (c) 2025 SYAIFUL ANWAR, ASYRAF BIN MANSOR, HAZZEMAN HARIS, MAHYU DHARSONO, ABDILLAH LUBIS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Wild plant knowledge and local disaster mitigation in West Java’s deforested highland, Indonesia
Abstract. Fatimah FZN, Mulyanto D. 2025. Wild plants knowledge and local disaster mitigation in West Java deforested highland, Indonesia. Asian J For 9: 418-427. Communities in disaster-prone mountainous areas often face limited access to stable food and health resources, making wild plants an essential safety net during emergencies. This study aims to identify the diversity, utilization, and role of wild plants in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) in the mountainous areas of West Java, Indonesia. A total of 26 informants were selected purposively according to the established criteria. They were individuals actively involved in wild plant collection and in small-scale domestication. Data were obtained through ethnobotanical surveys, free-listing interviews, and free walking. These data were then analyzed using Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Sørensen's Similarity Coefficient (SSC) to ensure methodological rigor. The study recorded 87 species of wild plants that serve as sources of food, medicine, and multifunctional plants. In crisis situations, wild plants contribute to the four pillars of food security: availability, access, utilization, and stability. This strengthens their role as a community-based DRR strategy. However, a limitation identified in the study area was the lack of use of carbohydrate-rich tubers and long-term preservation techniques. This gap may weaken the community's self-resilience as households would become overly dependent on external assistance when access to food supplies is disrupted. Nevertheless, the domestication of 19 wild plant species in home gardens represents another DRR-relevant adaptive strategy. It can maintain food security and easily accessible medicine at minimal cost, time, and risk. Thus, these findings confirm that knowledge and practices of wild plant utilization are an important part of community-based DRR and play a vital role in strengthening forest-based resilience strategies in disaster-prone areas.
Disaster risk reduction, ethnobotany, local knowledge, West Java, wild edible plants
Copyright (c) 2025 FAUZIYYAH ZAHRAH NUR FATIMAH, DEDE MULYANTO https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Social capital and institutional gaps in forest governance of Indonesia’s new capital city
Abstract. Anwar S, Sardjono MA, Rujehan, Suhardiman A, Kiswanto, Setiawati, Herlambang H. 2025. Social capital and institutional gaps in forest governance of Indonesia’s new capital city. Asian J For 9: 381-389. Social capital is a cornerstone of sustainable forest management, but its benefits depend on the institutional arrangements that shape how local communities participate in decision-making. The relocation of Indonesia's new capital city (IKN) to East Kalimantan is rapidly transforming forest landscapes and governance structures, creating both opportunities and risks for forest-dependent communities. This qualitative case study examines how social capital interacts with institutional gaps in forest governance across six villages located within and around the IKN development area. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 35 purposively selected informants, focus group discussions, and document analysis. Stakeholder power was analysed using an interest–influence matrix, while institutional coherence was evaluated across operational, collective-choice, and constitutional rule levels, drawing on Ostrom's Institutional Analysis and Development framework. The findings show a pronounced "social–institutional capital gap": local communities possess strong bonding and bridging social capital and high interest in forest protection, yet they have limited influence over formal land-use decisions dominated by state agencies and private investors. National and IKN-level regulations only partially recognise local rules and customary institutions, leading to overlapping authority and implementation gaps. These governance arrangements create conditions that may increase the risk of unsustainable forest conversion and biodiversity loss, even though our study does not directly measure ecological outcomes. We conclude that aligning formal rules with existing social capital through inclusive, multi-level co-governance is essential to maintain local legitimacy and reduce long-term forest-governance risks in the IKN region.
Biodiversity conservation, forest governance, institutional gaps, Nusantara Capital City, stakeholder analysis
Copyright (c) 2026 Asian Journal of Forestry
Diversity of color and chemical properties of the resins of Indonesian Styrax spp.
Abstract. Ridwansyah, Sunarti TC, Syamsu K, Fahma F, Julianti E, Lovely B. 2025. Diversity of color and chemical properties of the resins of Indonesian Styrax spp. Asian J For 9: 372-380. Styrax is a native Indonesian plant that grows in northern Sumatra and produces resin, locally known as kemenyan, as a valuable non-timber forest product widely used in perfumery, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. The present study aimed to analyze the color, chemical, and phytochemical profiles of resin from three Indonesian Styrax species, namely S. sumatrana, S. benzoin var. hiliferum, and S. benzoin. Color was assessed by the CIE Lab system, while chemical properties, including cinnamic and benzoic acids, were measured using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry. Phytochemical screening and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were performed to identify bioactive constituents and functional groups. The results revealed that S. sumatrana has the highest cinnamic acid content (32.65%) and the lowest benzoic acid level (16.08%), along with superior color parameters (L, a*, b*), qualifying it as Grade A under the Indonesian National Standard (SNI 7940:2013). FTIR spectra also indicated higher concentrations of phenolic compounds and terpenoids in S. sumatrana than in other species. The toba resin showed the most complex and abundant aromatic and resinous group spectrum, followed by bulu. Durame showed abundant carbonyl compounds and fewer aromatic structures, suggesting compositional differences between them. These findings highlight the superior quality of S. sumatrana resin, which contains a higher level of cinnamic acid and a brighter color than S. benzoin.
Benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, color, phytochemical, resin
Carbon footprint of teak plantation management in Thailand using life cycle analysis
Abstract. Intim N, Duangjai W, Diloksumpun S, Kaakkurivaara T, Kaakkurivaara N. 2026. Carbon footprint of teak plantation management in Thailand using life cycle analysis. Asian J For 10 (1): r100129. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100129. Greenhouse (GHG) emissions from forest management operations are increasingly scrutinized in the context of climate change mitigation. This study aimed to quantify the carbon footprint of a full rotation teak (Tectona grandis) plantation, identifying key direct emission sources in silviculture and harvesting. This study assessed the carbon footprint of teak plantation management in the Mae-Moh Forest Plantation, Lampang Province, Thailand, using a life-cycle emission assessment over a 30-year rotation period. The system boundary covered plantation management activities from site preparation and planting to thinning and final harvesting, following a cradle-to-log-yard framework. Carbon dioxide emissions were calculated using activity data collected during 2023-2024 and emission factors provided by the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization. The analysis consisted of two major components: silvicultural practices and harvesting operations. The life-cycle emissions of carbon dioxide from silvicultural practices were estimated at 1,726.5 kg CO₂eq ha-1, with annual firebreak construction accounting for 1,176.0 kg CO₂eq ha-1, followed by fertilizer application accounting for 338.0 kg CO₂eq ha-1. The first year of establishment generated the highest emissions owing to the implementation of all silvicultural activities. Harvesting operations resulted in 14.2 kg CO₂eq/m³ in final felling, with short distance transportation identified as the largest contributor (5.3 kg CO₂eq/m³). When aggregated over the entire rotation, the total operational carbon footprint was 4,633.4 kg CO₂eq ha-¹, with harvesting operations accounting for 62.7% of emissions and silvicultural practices 37.3%. The highest annual emissions occurred during the first thinning at year 15. These results indicate that harvesting logistics, machinery efficiency, and fertilizer management are key drivers of emissions in teak plantation management. Improving equipment efficiency, optimizing nutrient management based on soil conditions, and adopting integrated fertilizer strategies could substantially reduce the carbon footprint of plantation forestry operations.
Fuel consumption, greenhouse gases, life cycle assessment, operational efficiency, plantation forestry emissions
Copyright (c) 2026 NALINEE INTIM, WIRONGRONG DUANGJAI, SAPIT DILOKSUMPUN, TOMI KAAKKURIVAARA, NOPPARAT KAAKKURIVAARA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Comparative machine learning for forest landscape mapping in Mount Argapura, East Java, Indonesia
Abstract. Wulandari PW, Hernawan E, Sumarga E, Sulistyawati E. 2026. Comparative machine learning for forest landscape mapping in Mount Argapura, East Java, Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100122. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100122. Monitoring land cover is essential for understanding forest landscape structure and supporting sustainable management in mountainous regions. This study mapped land cover in the Mount Argapura landscape, East Java, Indonesia, using 2024 Landsat 8/9 imagery combined with topographic variables and topographic and texture metrics. Seven land-cover classes were identified: Natural Forest, Plantation Forest, Plantation Estate, Dryland Agriculture, Open Land, Settlements, and Water Bodies. Three machine-learning classifiers Classification and Regression Tree (CART), Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM) were evaluated using Overall Accuracy (OA), Kappa (κ), 95% Confidence Intervals (CI), and McNemar’s test. Results indicate that RF achieved the highest performance (OA=0.98; κ=0.97), significantly outperforming CART (OA=0.97; κ=0.96) and SVM (OA=0.87; κ=0.82). At the class level, RF showed high stability (User’s Accuracy 0.98 for forest classes), while SVM struggled with spectral confusion between plantation and Dryland Agriculture. Spatial analysis reveals a landscape dominated by managed forest systems, with Plantation Forest covering 36.3% (35,544.33 ha) and Natural Forest covering 32.7% (32,043.51 ha). Together with Plantation Estates (22.1%), these vegetated classes account for over 91% of the 97,923.33 ha study area. Comparison with the official Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MoEF) map showed moderate agreement (OA=0.54; κ=0.30), with this study identifying a larger extent of managed plantation landscapes (35,544.33 ha vs. 12,053 ha in MoEF). This discrepancy highlights the importance of local-scale mapping for capturing site-specific details. The findings provide a robust baseline for BKSDA and Perum Perhutani in biodiversity conservation, carbon stock assessment, and agroforestry planning. Future research should incorporate multi-temporal data to better detect fine-scale forest dynamics in this complex tropical terrain.
Forest landscape, Landsat, land cover mapping, Mount Argapura, Random Forest
Copyright (c) 2026 P. WIJAYATI WULANDARI, ENDANG HERNAWAN, ELHAM SUMARGA, ENDAH SULISTYAWATI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Socio-ecological perspective on forest encroachment and community adaptation in Mount Silanu, Indonesia
Abstract. Mahmud M, Maulany RI, Paembonan SA, Millang S, Asja MA, Muchtar A. 2026. Socio-ecological perspective on forest encroachment and community adaptation in Mount Silanu, Indonesia. Asian J For 10 (1): r100117. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100117. Forest encroachment poses a serious threat to ecological integrity and social stability in Indonesia's forest-edge landscapes, where livelihood dependence, tenure ambiguity, and weak governance intersect. This study examines forest encroachment dynamics and community adaptation strategies in Mount Silanu, South Sulawesi, a forest-edge area characterized by the overlap of community-managed forests (HKm), protected forest zones, and agricultural frontiers. This study draws on 32 semi-structured interviews and the focus group discussions conducted across three forest-edge villages, analyzed using NVivo-assisted thematic coding integrated with the Drivers-Pressures-State-Impacts-Responses (DPSIR) framework. The coded qualitative findings indicate that socio-economic inequality, insecure or contested tenure, limited livelihood alternatives, and long-standing dependence on forest resources function as key drivers that translate into pressures such as agricultural plot clearing, informal forest product extraction, and small-scale infrastructure expansion. Participants consistently reported ecological state changes, including declining tree cover, forest fragmentation, and perceived declines in locally valued species, alongside impacts on disaster vulnerability and boundary-related conflicts. Community responses clustered into three empirically derived adaptation typologies: Collective stewardship (e.g., mixed cropping and controlled grazing), mixed reactive–survival strategies (short-term coping combined with livelihood diversification), and individual exploitative strategies (monoculture intensification and unilateral land expansion). Overall, the findings highlight forest-edge communities as active agents responding to structural constraints, rather than isolated rule violators. The study underscores the importance of tenure-sensitive and participatory co-management approaches to mitigate encroachment while supporting ecological resilience and locally viable livelihoods.
Adaptive livelihood practices, ecological resilience, forest-edge communities, social forestry governance
Copyright (c) 2026 MAHMUD MAHMUD, RISMA ILLA MAULANY, SAMUEL A. PAEMBONAN, SYAMSUDDIN MILLANG, MAWARDI A. ASJA, ASIKIN MUCHTAR https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Biodiversity patterns in Acacia plantations and natural forest remnants in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
Abstract. Md-Isa SF, Lim SP, Besar NA, Wong WVC, Phua MH. 2026. Biodiversity patterns in Acacia plantations and natural forest remnants in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. Asian J For 10 (1): r100110. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100110. Evaluating biodiversity patterns in tropical plantations is crucial for balancing production and conservation goals. This study assessed plant biodiversity across six forest types within an Acacia hybrid plantation landscape in Sook, Keningau, Sabah, Malaysia. Twenty-nine circular plots were established in Acacia stands of different ages (13, 15, and 17 years) and adjacent natural forests (secondary, riparian, and heath). A total of 42 tree species from 24 families were recorded across all forest types, of which 39 species were native; tree-based analyses comprised 34 species from 21 families. Species diversity varied markedly among forest types, with secondary and riparian forests exhibiting the highest diversity (Shannon-Wiener H′ up to 2.547; Simpson 1-D up to 0.904), while younger Acacia stands showed the lowest values. Among plantations, the 17-year-old stand supported higher native tree species richness (mean ± SD: 4.50±2.38 species per plot) than the 13- and 15-year-old stands. Differences in native tree richness among forest types were statistically significant (Kruskal-Wallis, p=0.002). Beta diversity partitioning between Acacia plantations and natural forests showed turnover values from 0.68 to 1.00 and nestedness values from 0.078 to 0.118. Acacia mangium and A. hybrid were identified as indicator species of plantations. In contrast, the natural forests contained diagnostic native taxa, including Koordersiodendron pinnatum (classified as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List). These findings highlight the critical role of remnant natural forests as biodiversity reservoirs and the positive influence of stand age on native species recovery in plantation landscapes. Maintaining remnant patches and extending rotation cycles can enhance biodiversity outcomes in Acacia production forests.
Acacia hybrid plantation, beta diversity, conservation set-asides, species diversity, turnover partitioning
Copyright (c) 2026 SITI FATIMAH MD-ISA, SHI PIN LIM, NORMAH AWANG BESAR, WILSON VUN CHIONG WONG, MUI-HOW PHUA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Morphology and habitat of wild tea Gaultheria cumingiana in Mountain Province, Philippines
Abstract. Garsi JP, Nasungan LM, Baldic AT, Tawanna Jr. R, Cuyangoan JD, Magwilang E, Cue EG, Bangao BJD. 2026. Morphology and habitat of wild tea Gaultheria cumingiana in Mountain Province, Philippines. Asian J For 10 (1): r100133. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100133. Gaultheria cumingiana is an important indigenous wild tea species valued in Mountain Province, Philippines, for its aroma, flavor, and medicinal properties. This study aimed to characterize the morphology and habitat features of G. cumingiana and assess the relationship between key soil properties and the plant's essential morphological characteristics. A descriptive quantitative research design was employed across five distinct locations in Bontoc and Barlig, Mountain Province. At each site, ten individual plants were sampled (N = 50 total). Data collection included morphometric and reproductive morphology, as well as soil variables. One-way ANOVA, DMRT, and Pearson r test were utilized to analyze data. The results showed that G. cumingiana was a small, aromatic shrub, exhibiting significant site-based variation in growth with an overall mean of 1.07 m, meanwhile the mean Apical Dominance Index (ADI) ranged from 7 to 14, p<0.05, and the leaf area had an overall mean of 10.89 cm2. Reproductive morphology showed highly significant differences for the number of flowers per peduncle and fruit weight, while not significant for corolla diameter. Soil analysis revealed not significantly different and moderately acidic with the overall mean 5.65, while the % moisture content is highly significant (mean 37.9%). Analysis established a significant negative correlation between soil N concentration and measured leaf area (mean 10.89), indicating that it develops smaller leaves in challenging environments. The species is a strong candidate for focused conservation, sustainable wild tea production, and domestication due to its inherent resilience.
Gaultheria cumingiana, habitat, Mountain Province, soil properties, wild tea
Copyright (c) 2026 JULIE P. GARSI, LICHELYN M. NASUNGAN, ALEXANDER T. BALDIC, ROLANDO TAWANNA JR., JOYCE D. CUYANGOAN, EPIPHANIA MAGWILANG, EDGAR G. CUE, BRENT JOSEPH D. BANGAO https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The role of candlenuts in sustaining rural livelihoods from forests to household welfare
Abstract. Abdullah, Makkarennu, Syahidah. 2026. The role of candlenuts in sustaining rural livelihoods from forests to household welfare. Asian J For 10: r100101. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100101. The utilization of candlenuts (Aleurites moluccanus) represents a sustainable livelihood strategy for forest-adjacent communities, contributing to both household income and food security while promoting the diversification of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs). However, despite the widespread use of candlenuts in rural economies, empirical evidence remains limited on how candlenut utilization simultaneously affects household welfare and the sustainability of forest resources, particularly within community-managed forest landscapes. Addressing this empirical gap, this study examines the sustainability potential and economic contribution of candlenut utilization to rural livelihoods, as well as its implications for household welfare. The study was conducted within the Limited Production Forest (LPF) managed by the Maros Protected Forest Management Unit (PFMU) in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. Primary data were collected from 17 farmer members, representing all active candlenut farmers within the local Forest Farmers Group (FFG), through field surveys, interviews, and document reviews. The data were analyzed using a physical balance approach, income contribution analysis, and the household welfare index based on rice equivalent. The findings indicate that most respondents possessed an initial reserve of fewer than 40 candlenut trees, with depletion rates exceeding tree additions resulting in declining and increasingly constrained resource conditions that indicate high harvesting pressure. Economically, candlenuts provide the highest income among local commodities such as corn and cocoa, with 58.82% of farmers classified as highly dependent on candlenut-based activities. The welfare assessment indicates that the majority of farmer households (64.71%) fall within the adequate category, while 23.53% are classified as nearly poor and 11.76% have attained a decent living standard. Overall, the findings contribute to knowledge on NTFPs and household welfare by integrating sustainability and income analyses, showing that candlenut supports rural livelihoods but faces increasing sustainability pressures.
Candlenut, community welfare, economic contribution, forest farmers group, physical balance
Copyright (c) 2026 ABDULLAH, MAKKARENNU, SYAHIDAH https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Diversity of invasive alien plants in the Universitas Sumatera Utara Arboretum, Deli Serdang, Indonesia
Abstract. Nathaniel G, Basyuni M, Tarigan AA, Baba S. 2025. Diversity of invasive alien plants in the Universitas Sumatera Utara Arboretum, Deli Serdang, Indonesia. Asian J For 9: 332-345. Invasive alien plants are one or more plant species that are introduced into a different ecosystem and become dominant, disrupting the local ecosystem. In Indonesia, there are more than 300 species of invasive plants. The aim of this study is to analyze species diversity, examine morphological relationships, and analyze the distribution of invasive alien plants. This research was designed using a quantitative approach. Data collection was conducted through vegetation analysis using the "systematic sampling with random start" technique. The results of the study identified a total of 4,143 individual invasive alien plants belonging to 29 species from 16 families. The diversity index of invasive alien plants in the arboretum was calculated at 1.99, the evenness index was 0.5895, and the species richness index was 3.35. The highest importance value index at the shrub level was found in Clidemia hirta (Melastomaceae) with a value of 40.18%, while at the ground cover level it was Asystasia gangetica (Acanthaceae) with a value of 72.07%. Several species showed very close morphological relationships, indicated by a similarity index of 1. These included C. hirta with Melastoma malabathricum, Elephantopus scaber with Ageratum conyzoides, Eragrostis amabilis with Panicum maximum, Cyperus rotundus with Rhynchospora colorata, and Caladium bicolor with Alocasia macrorrhizos and Limnocharis flava. The distribution of invasive alien plants was found primarily on flat and gently sloping terrain, at distances ranging from 0 to 150 meters from the arboretum road, and from 0 to 375 meters from the river.
Clidemia hirta, distribution, Indonesia, morphological relationship, species diversity
Enrichment planting with Fokienia hodginsii and Cinnamomum obtusifolium for forest recovery in Northern Vietnam
Abstract. Minh NT, Thang NT, Duc DT, Bon TN, Khoi TT, Hoang NH, Tuan NV, Dung PT, Thanh HV, Trinh DC, Phuong NTT, Do TV. 2026. Enrichment planting with Fokienia hodginsii and Cinnamomum obtusifolium for forest recovery in Northern Vietnam. Asian J For 10 (1): r100104. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100104. This study evaluated the survival, growth, and stem quality of Fokienia hodginsii and Cinnamomum obtusifolium in enrichment planting for forest recovery. The study was conducted in Lao Cai Province, Vietnam, where F. hodginsii and C. obtusifolium were planted using the line planting technique under forest canopy conditions. Three 1,000 m² plots were established, and survival rates, growth parameters, and stem quality were assessed over four years. Results indicated high survival rates of 90.32% for F. hodginsii and 92.47% for C. obtusifolium, with no significant difference between species (p>0.05). Both species exhibited over 82% good-quality stems. While F. hodginsii showed slightly higher diameter growth (D₁.₃=2.03±0.28 cm vs. 1.88±0.15 cm) and greater height (H=2.88±0.22 m vs. 2.49±0.20 m), though these differences were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Linear correlations among growth parameters were significant for both species (p<0.005, R²=0.42-0.77), demonstrated predictable growth patterns, with both species adapting well to the site’s environmental conditions. These findings confirm the ecological compatibility and economic viability of using F. hodginsii and C. obtusifolium in enrichment planting programs. This study provides insights into optimizing restoration strategies and highlights the potential of these species to support sustainable forest management and ecological recovery in degraded tropical landscapes.
Cinnamomum obtusifolium, degraded forest restoration, Fokienia hodginsii, growth performance, native tree species
Copyright (c) 2026 NGUYEN TRONG MINH, NGUYEN TOAN THANG, DAO TRUNG DUC, TRINH NGOC BON, TRUONG TRONG KHOI, NGUYEN HUY HOANG, NGUYEN VAN TUAN, PHAM TIEN DUNG, HOANG VAN THANH, DAO CONG TRINH, NGUYEN THI THU PHUONG, TRAN VAN DO https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Agroforestry for soil health in a tropical national park of Gunung Halimun Salak, Indonesia
Abstract. Suharto FF, Wijayanto N, Wasis B. 2025. Agroforestry for soil health in a tropical national park of Gunung Halimun Salak, Indonesia. Asian J For 9: 346-360. This study evaluated the Visual Evaluation of Soil Structure (VESS) method as a rapid assessment tool for soil health across six stand types in Gunung Halimun Salak National Park, Indonesia. The research employed a comparative design across natural forest, mixed stand, and four agroforestry systems (damar-cardamom, damar-coffee, damar-chili, damar-eggplant), with three replicate plots per stand. VESS assessment followed standardized protocols, evaluating aggregate size, porosity, root distribution, and structural strength in the 0-30 cm depth. Laboratory analyses quantified bulk density, porosity, moisture content, pH, organic carbon, and Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC). Statistical analyses included ANOVA, Duncan's test, Principal Component Analysis, and Spearman correlation. We linked VESS scores to vegetation composition and laboratory-measured soil properties. Vegetation analysis revealed distinct dominance patterns: natural forest by Macropanax dispermus (IVI=120.57%), agroforestry systems by Agathis dammara (IVI=158.05-300.00%), and mixed stand by Altingia excelsa (IVI=248.50%). VESS evaluation showed good soil structure (Sq=1.0-1.84) in natural forest and low-intensity agroforestry, with moderate degradation (Sq=2.5) in intensive systems. PCA confirmed VESS as an integrative indicator, with PC1 explaining 73.55% of variance along a soil structure gradient. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Spearman correlations revealed strong correlations emerged between VESS and bulk density (ρ=+0.85), porosity (ρ=-0.85), moisture content (ρ=-0.85), organic carbon (ρ=-0.86), and CEC (ρ=-0.77). VESS scores exhibited strong and significant correlations with key soil health indicators, showing they increased with compaction and decreased with porosity, moisture content, soil organic carbon, and cation exchange capacity. The findings support VESS as a practical field tool and are effective for detecting management-induced soil degradation. We recommend its integration into the park's regular monitoring protocols to support soil conservation efforts. Promoting complex agroforestry systems is also advised. Study limitations include single-observer assessment and unmeasured environmental covariates, suggesting the need for further validation.
Agroforestry management, soil physical and chemical quality, sustainable land management, tropical agroforestry, VESS