Ecology and Conservation status of Phoebe hainesiana Brandis: a data deficit timber species of Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot

Phoebe hainesiana Brandis (Lauraceae) is an economically significant timber yielding forest species endemic to North-East India in Indo-Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot (IMBH). The tree exhibits significant commercial importance in timber industries due to its peculiar wood qualities. The timbers strength, toughness, and durability make it in high demand for furniture making. Despite its significance, the botanical description of the species is not well documented due to the confined distribution of the species in IMBH region. The natural population is rare, but it is the least concerned species in the IUCN Red List. Moreover, no taxonomical description of the species is available for its distinct identity among the other species from the genus. In the present study, we conducted a taxonomic, ecological, and forestry assessment of the species in its natural environment, researching the literature and conducting a field survey. A significant variation in intra-specific wood density (450 kg/m3 to 800 kg/m3) determines the scope of robust selection for the genetic improvement of the species. Its population has been severely fragmented due to over-harvesting in lack of sustainable management. According to our findings, the species is endangered due to a rapid decline in its population, a limited extent of occurrence, and a small area of occupancy. Among the other four species from the genus found in India, P. hainesiana can be identified based on its distinct lobes of the fruiting perianth. We recommend a sincere effort for the conservation of this key species of tropical evergreen forest in IMBH region.