Lowland and hill dipterocarp forests
Dipterocarp forests are so-called because of the dominance of the timber family Dipterocarpaceae. Lowland, hill and upper dipterocarp forests are the most complex and species-rich forests that flourish on the well-drained soils of the plains, undulating lands and foothills of Malaysia. They occur from sea level to about 1200 metres. Until 1990, dipterocarp forests in Malaysia constituted about 85 per cent of all forested land, which itself covered about 58 per cent of the total landmass. Apart from being the country's main source of valuable timber, dipterocarp forests play a vital role in providing habitats for wildlife and in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding areas.
- Information in the full article includes
- Recent history
- Species composition and richness
- Unique features of dipterocarp forests
- Economic importance
