Distribution, Species Composition and Use of Buchanania latifolia in Banke District, Nepal

Abstract

Background and Objective: Buchanania latifolia is one of the important tree species in Terai. The seeds of this species can be used to produce commercially valuable oils. Thus, this will be a handsome source of income for local people but there is not any research regarding this in Nepal. Thus, this study was objectively conducted to show its distribution, status and use. Materials and Methods: This research was done in eight community forests of Banke District, Nepal. Total 90 plots were established having 25×20 m for the tree, 10×10 m for pole and 5×5 m for regeneration in the field to collect primary data. The diameter at breast height and height of the tree was measured, associated species were listed. The GPS coordinates of the location of this species in the forest were recorded to show its distribution. Moreover, the key informant interview and focus group discussion were conducted to know its distribution, status and use and analyzed. The density and volume were calculated. The distribution map was prepared. Descriptive analysis was done to analyze the collected data. Results: The result showed that Shorea robusta, Terminalia alata, Lagerstroemia parviflora, Dillenia pentagyna, Terminalia bellirica and Terminalia chebula were the most common associate species of Buchanania latifolia in CFs. The highest volume was around 0.826±0.045 m 3 /stem in Madhu community forest. About 2-3 tons of seed may be collected every year from all CFs. The seed collection of this species together with Aegle marmelos (Bael), Ziziphus mauritiana (Bayar), Phyllanthus emblica (Amala), Terminalia chebula (Harro) and Terminalia bellirica (Barro) may be cost effective. Conclusion: Herder can generate about NPR 200-300 per day for 3 months as a side business so over 6000 employment may be created. The timber can be used for soft furniture, madal, plough materials, paduka and seeds as edible oil.