Framework Species to Restore Southern Thailand's Lowland Evergreen Forest

Extensive study was made by FORRU-CMU, local forestry staff and students of Wailailak University of the trees of the lowland forest in the remaining range of the highly endangered Gurney’s Pitta in southern Thailand, including the identity of species and their flowering and fruiting phenologies. Over 180 species of tree were identified and voucher specimens collected of foliage flowers and fruits. Phenology trails were established and over 200 trees individually labelled and monitored for 5 years.

Germination data and measurements of sapling growth rates were made in the tree nursery. Filed trials were established to identify potential framework species the lowland evergreen forest of the region. Three different forest restoration methods were trialled; accelerated natural regeneration, replanting with framework species and direct seeding. All three showed potential for successful forest -ecosystem restoration. A technical guide to the most successful species choices and restoration techniques was compiled in both English and Thai (see download panel). A list of recommended framework species for the area can be viewed here.

Moreover, a local school curriculum “Gurney’s Pitta and Nature” was developed mainly by BCST  and its partners. The project developed educational materials fro school children and their teachers and helped to raise awareness of habitat restoration to conserve the lowland evergreen forest birds,.