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Endangered tree species and their populations: a case study Dendrosicyos socotrana
Ali, Abdulwahab Saad Saeed
The study was performed on 24 localities throughout Socotra Island to approach the threatened tree species of Dendrosicyos socotrana (DS, Cucumber tree), its population and regeneration. 14 localities out of these localities contain DS individuals. This survey studied the land-cover classes of High Shrubland with Succulents, Low Croton-Jatropha Shrubland, Sparse Dwarf Shrubland, Wadies, Submontane Grassland, Submontane Shrubland, Frankincense Woodland, Dracaena Woodland, Urban land, Date Palm Plantation, and Frankincense Forest. Studied localities form an area of 96 square kilometres and 204 individuals have been found (excluding seedlings). The basic measurement of specimens had been taken (height, GBH, fertility and coordinates) as well as collected data about biotope site and regeneration. Regeneration occurred approximately on 36 % of all localities. Dendrosicyos socotrana could be fertile on height of 2 m. The estimation of total number of DS population on Socotra Island could be 8 113 individuals. It is conspicuously showing that High Shrubland with Succulents and Wadies are the best habitat for Dendrosicyos socotrana, the reason is that the northern-slopes and wadies protect Dendrosicyos socotrana from the strong monsoon wind in the Island. As for others land-cover, DS species prefers wind-protected locations. In conclusion the DS population are decreasing in whole Island and I am suggesting to seek for a solution for this unique species.
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