Small-scale logging in mangroves of Timor Leste

Updated: 2018-04-30

The impact of small-scale cutting of mangroves by family groups was examined in 3 high-salinity forests on the dry tropical, north coast of Timor Leste.Forests characteristics were stems (ha-1) and average basal area (m2 ha-1), total above-ground biomass (t ha-1) measured by diameter at breast height (dbh), canopy cover (%), and leaf area index - LAI: leaf area, ground area (m2). Concentrations of particulate nutrients were examined. Interstitial concentrations of dissolved sulfide, metals, and ammonium were measured as well as soil desiccation (i.e. its salinity). Also measured were solute uptake and O2 translocation to live roots, and rates of anaerobic soil metabolism (sulfate reduction). Mangrove species noted were Ceriops tagal, Rhizophora apiculata, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, and Avicennia marina. A pilot study to measure mangrove primary production and biogeochemistry on the southern coast and northern coast of Timor Leste. Sediment chemistry, forest biomass estimates (DBH), socio-economic pressure, costs and benefits of limited logging, implications for sustainability.