A study on the conservation model of Camellia dalatensis (Camellia L., Theaceae) in Lam Dong province, Vietnam

Camellia dalatensis is a small tree with yellow flowers in the genus Camellia L. (Theaceae). The species is found in a single in Dalat, southern Vietnam. It is known that the Da Lat Plateau has suffered from habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation in places, and deforestation is directly impacting the range of C. dalatensis. The species is listed as Critically Endangered (CR). To provide an appropriate method for the conservation and sustainable development of this species, the study experimented with air layering and planting in their habitat (in situ). An ex situ experiment for C. dalatensis with several other species was also performed to assess their adaptability. The results showed that the average rooting time was from 3.5-4 months, the rooting rate of air layering was 78.89 % and the survival rate after planting was 96.06 %. Plants were replanted grow well in the habitat of the original population. In a new environment, the survival rate of C. dalatensis is lower than that of other species of the same genus, only 17.14 %. The surviving plants have not yet shown the ability to grow. Thus, at this time, in situ conservation method for C. dalatensis is appropriate.