Biodiversity based on agroforestry

Abstract

Wijayanto N, Hartoyo APP. 2015. Biodiversity based on agroforestry. Pros Sem Nas Masy Biodiv Indon 1 (2): 242-246. Agroforestry has been widely practiced by our society and has many local names. The advantages of agroforestry include aspects in ecology, economic, social and culture. Biodiversity in agroforestry is important to be studied regarding the components and benefits of the species. Repong damar in Krui, Lampung and mixed farms (kebun campuran) in West Java, are two forms of agroforestry, which are interesting to study, in particular, the components of plant species and its benefits for life. Data were collected from interviews with farmers, the observation plots, and literature study. The results showed that repong damar in Lampung is dominated by damar trees (Shorea javanica), while mixed farms in West Java is dominated by mangosteen trees (Garcinia mangostana). The damar trees primarily yield a valuable product of resin, known as damar mata kucing, while mangosteen trees are mainly harvested for their fruits. Both products produced from the agroforestry are important export commodities. This study concludes that agroforestry farming communities have implemented a system of biodiversity in their land use, and have also produced superior products for export. These products could potentially have higher added value if processed further in the country before being exported.