The conservation of tropical forests in fragmented landscapes: from diversity to ecosystem function

Tropical rainforests are increasingly existing as fragments in an otherwise human-dominated landscape. Fragments are formed when forest is cleared to make room for other human activities: these may be deliberately left, or are areas that are too difficult to clear for example because they are too steep.

In south-east Asia large areas of forest have been cleared to make way for oil palm plantations. Across many regions, the only ‘natural’ forest representation is in the form of the small forest fragments that remain after clearance. In these landscapes the diversity and function of these fragments is, in the long-term, the only form in which tropical rainforests will be represented.

There are major questions about the viability of both species and ecosystem processes in the light of such fragmentation. This project will seek to explore these through analyzing the extent to which key groups of species are represented in forest fragments, and the extent to which vital interactions are conserved.

The project will focus on the main family of trees (Dipterocarps) in forests in Borneo. The project will ask the following questions: (i) Are Dipterocarp species conserved within fragments, and which species are found? (ii) What is the effect of fragmentation, and fragment size on growth and recruitment, specifically following the recent mast seeding? (iii) How do composition, growth and recruitment compare with that in undisturbed forests and what are the consequences for the long-term future and structure of fragmented communities?

For more information about how to apply, or the application process, please contact Mrs S Carter (s.a.carter@sheffield.ac.uk).

To apply now go to: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/online