Generating Multifunctional Landscape through Reforestation with Native Trees in the Tropical Region: A Case Study of Gunung Dahu Research Forest, Bogor, Indonesia

Gunung Dahu Research Forest (GDRF) is a 250 ha tropical degraded land reforested by native dipterocarps species. The reforestation success was valued by evaluating the planted trees' growth performance, their potential timber stock, natural regeneration capacity, soil improvement, biological interdependence, and environmental services. This scientific report used a combination of literature review and also primary data processing to describe the reforestation success within the area. A hilly species of Shorea platyclados showed the best growth performance with its average diameter and height of 43 cm and 23 m, respectively, with its mean diameter annual increment of 2.1 cm/year and the predicted standing stock at 220 m(3)/ha. Six Shorea species were identified to show their natural regeneration capacity and the occurrence of ectomycorrhizal fruiting bodies, predominantly by the genus Rusula, determined the establishment of biological interdependency at the site. Reforestation improved soil organic matters as revealed by high soil porosity (51.06-52.32%) and infiltration rate (120-155.33 mm/h). The reforested landscape also ensures a continuous water supply and provides an economic benefit for the community. Thus, planting native trees for reforesting degraded tropical landscapes is prospective and may deliver multiple benefits in an ecological and economic view.