Sri Lanka
Releasing Rain Forest Succession: A Case Study in the Dicranopteris linearis Fernlands of Sri LankabackgroundThis study evaluates the effectiveness of different site treatments for controlling the invasive fern Dicranopteris linearis which has arrested forest succession in areas of the Sinharaja Man and Biosphere (MAB) reserve in lowland Sri Lanka. The fernlands, which had existed in the reserve for 10-20 years before this study, are favored by forest clearance for swidden agriculture and periodic fires. Available with subscription or purchase |
Role of Legumes in Release of Successionally Arrested Grasslands inthe Central Hills of Sri LankaBackgroundMany cleared and abandoned forest areas have changed to successionally arrested grasslands, shrublands, or fernlands maintained by frequent fires and high herbivore populations. Many studies have shown that herbaceous legumes can protect soil surfaces, retain soil moisture, improve soil fertility, and retard ground fires. This study evaluates whether some of these species can satisfactorily establish in these arrested grassland areas to aid in the trajectory towards reforestation. Available with subscription or purchase |
Release from Root Competition Promotes Tree Seedling Survival and Growth Following Transplantation into Human-Induced Grasslands in Sri LankabackgroundThis study evaluates the growth and survival of four native tree species planted as seedlings in grasslands situated in previously abandoned tea plantations. Research Goals & MethodsEach seedling underwent one of eight different treatments based the various combinations of: with or without root competition, shoot competition, and vertebrate herbivory. Seedlings that died within the first month were replaced. Growth and survival was evaluated at 18 and 28 months. Available with subscription or purchase |
Effects of fire on the recruitment of rain forest vegetation beneath Pinus caribaea plantations, Sri LankaBackgroundGroundstory fires burn forest understories and can impact advance regeneration, contributing to conversion of forests to fire-sustained grasslands or fernlands. While plantations of fire-tolerant trees have been successfully established on these sites, managing fire in the newly developing understory remains an issue of concern. Available with subscription or purchase |
Enrichment Planting of Dipterocarps in Logged-Over Secondary Forests: Effect of Width, Direction and Maintenance Method of Planting Line on Selected Shorea SpeciesbackgroundIn this study, three different planting design experiements were conducted using three Dipterocarp tree species planted in a heavily logged area of South Kalimantan. The area was logged in 1979 and used for shifting cultivation until 1988. Available with subscription or purchase |
Mangrove Reforestation at Six LakesBackgroundMangrove forests provide a wide range of benefits; they are used as spawning grounds for fish, have medicinal properties, and protect against flood waves. Yet, mangroves around the world are being degraded. Specifically, in 2004 in Sri Lanka a Tsunami severely damaged the countries mangrove forests. The Mangrove Reforestation at Six Lakes aims to remedy this destruction. Open access copy available |
Reforestation and Regrowth in the Human Dominated Landscapes of South AsiabackgroundThis study evaluates the drivers of reforestation and regrowth in South Asia using case studies and a meta-analysis of 24 papers. Available with subscription or purchase |
Restoration pathways for rain forest in southwest Sri Lanka: A review of concepts and modelsBackgroundIn the last 10 years government policy towards remaining rain forest in Sri Lanka has changed from one that promoted commercial exploitation to one of conservation, recognizing the growing importance of uplands as catchments for water production, biodiversity conservation and other downstream services. This review article discusses recent research on rain forest dynamics of southwest Sri Lanka with the objective of how this knowledge can be used for forest restoration. Open access copy available |
