Rediscovery of Schizostachyum caudatum Backer ex Heyne (Poaceae: Bambusoideae) and predicting its habitat preference using geospatial analysis

Abstract

Schizostachyum caudatum is a Sumatran native bamboo that has a solid culm. This species is rarely utilized and considered sacred by the locals, although it has great commercial value. It merits a lot more research. Research data on this species dates back 30 years, with no updates since then. We performed rediscoveries of this species and built a distribution map. Field research revealed four records of its presence in a population size of one clump each, except for the population in Umbul Limau, Sukarame Village, which has ten clumps. The clump density is approximately one per square meter. However, the clump density can reach 0.3 per square meter in Umbul Limau, Sukarame Village. Two records of this species are new cultivations, and their location has never been previously reported. We assessed the environmental parameters of the native habitat of S. caudatum based on the attribute data layers, such as rocks, topography, and rainfall. The habitat preference of this species is an area with volcanic substratum, high humidity, and annual rainfall of around 3000 mm. The topography ranges from hilly to mountainous areas, with an 850–1100 m above sea level. Understanding the distribution patterns of this endemic and vulnerable species is important when determining suitable locations for ex-situ conservation and implementation.