Evaluating Biodiversity: The Batu Apoi Experience

Das, Indraneil (1994) Evaluating Biodiversity: The Batu Apoi Experience. Ambio, 23 (4 & 5). pp. 238-242. ISSN 1654-7209

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Abstract

Batu Apoi, a dipterocarp forest in Brunei Darussalam is being developed into the country's first National Park. Universiti Brunei Darussalam-Royal Geographical Society ran a rainforest expedition at the site in order to document the great biological diversity of the reserve, beginning in 1991. This 14-month project and subsequent research have resulted in the collection of many species of plants and animals, indicating that Batu Apoi is richer in species than might be expected from its size. New species of virtually every group of plants and animals have been identified. Many of the plant and animal species are used by the Iban tribesmen, who, thanks to an enactment that prohibits guns in Brunei, hunt employing traditional methods such as traps, snares and spears. A variety of plants are purported to possess pharmaceutical properties, according to local beliefs, many of which do not have botanical names. With revenue generated from overseas investments, besides oil and gas production at home, Brunei Darussalam is in an enviable position in being perhaps one of few countries that has relatively large areas under rainforest cover, but does not need to exploit its forest for timber export. However, immense opportunities that remain in studying and eventually utilizing these forest resources sustainably will be a challenge for the country in the years to come.

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