Freshwater and peatswamp forests
Canopy layers of a peatswamp forest
Freshwater and peatswamp forests occur on the coastal or riverine plains, on different soil types, along the east and west coasts of Peninsular Malaysia and in Sabah and Sarawak. Displaying a similar forest structure across Malaysia, they are home to a unique flora dominated by tree species. The production of high-quality timber is a source of revenue for the country, while local communities depend on these forests for minor forest products. Conservation of these forest types is extremely important as they play a significant role in the hydrological and carbon cycles.
- Information in the full article includes
- Characteristic features of swamp habitats
- Forest structure
- Species composition
- Economic importance
- Ecological role and conservation