Comprehensive, high-precision tree census enhances conservation justification for critically threatened tropical forest fragments

Abstract

AbstractSmall, isolated tropical forest fragments may be suitable targets for conservation intervention. Where significant financial investment is required (e.g. conservation easement, private land acquisition) justification requires evidence of importance, threat, and strategic importance. Comprehensive inventories of biodiversity can enhance this justification. We used historical imagery and a comprehensive high-precision tree census to assess conservation importance, threat and strategy of a 9.33 ha fragment of lowland pahoehoe lava flow forest. Using high-precision total station mapping of all trees (n = 4087), we demonstrate the botanic and wildlife importance of this fragment. We use aerial imagery extending back 70 years to illustrate the continued and increasing threats to this fragment and argue that conservation intervention can mitigate those threats and promote long-term persistence of the forest and its biodiversity. Finally, we illustrate the strategic cultural services of this site, in particular opportunities for public engagement with the forest. Finally, we discuss several key benefits of total station mapping for research, conservation and management of tropical forests.