Environment and Natural Resources Journal

Modeling the Bioclimatic Range of Musa ingens (Giant Highland Banana) under Conditions of Climate Change Scenarios

2024-04-18T11:38:54+07:00

Climate change significantly impacts living organisms, leading to alterations in their range, distribution, and abundance. This study estimates the potential distribution of representatives of the family Musaceae, noted for their large size and importance to tropical ecosystems. We focus on Musa ingens Simmonds 1960 and employ bioclimatic variables and in situ datasets to model its species distribution. We differentiate potential distribution areas for M. ingens and present a prognostic map of its distribution under four climate change scenarios. Precipitation during the warmest quarter emerges as the primary factor influencing the spatial distribution of M. ingens. Under the RCP (Representative Concentration Pathway) 6.0 scenario, the potential distribution shows an initial decrease, followed by a significant increase by 2070. Meanwhile, the RCP 8.5 scenario indicates an increase in 2050, with a subsequent six percent decrease in 2070. Under the RCP 4.5 scenario for 2050, the species distribution shifts regionally, particularly around the Osua Trikora Mountains and the highlands of the Giluwe Mountains to Mount Victoria. By 2070, the feasible area is expected to expand. Notably, the RCP 2.6 scenario for 2070 predicts a dramatic reduction in habitable area around Mount Bintang Lestari, on the border between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, rendering the entire lowland region of Papua uninhabitable. Consequently, a sharp decline in the population of M. ingens in this area is predicted.

Remote Sensing Analysis of Smog-Inducing Aerosol Optical Depth: An Integrated Approach for Air Pollution Mitigation

2024-03-22T11:40:05+07:00

Aerosol aggravation poses a significant challenge in the administrative Lahore Division of Punjab, Pakistan and contributes greatly to the persistent issue of smog. Since 2017, the division has experienced recurrent episodes of smog pollution, most notably in the months of October and November. In the present study, aerosol optical depth (AOD) has been analyzed alongside three metrological parameters: temperature, humidity and rainfall. These were tracked in October and November of 2018, 2020, and 2022 using remote sensing data and satellite imaging. Additionally, anthropogenic emissions data from automobile exhaust, industries and stubble burning were derived from secondary sources. Ultimately, the study helped piece together the complex environmental picture in Lahore Division in October and November. The results showed that AOD levels not only increased during this time, they were significantly influenced by a full range of metrological variables such as low temperature, high relative humidity, lack of rainfall and emissions from a variety of human activities. It was found that trucks, tractors and buses were among the worst contributors, alongside industry and stubble burning. Therefore, the present study suggests multi sectoral plans to mitigate aerosol levels and combat the smog menace, promoting environmental sustainability in the Lahore Division. A full set of recommendation is included, divided into three categories: industry, transport and agriculture. These are focused on technology, control systems, disposal, incentives, green solutions and more. At all levels, commitment, collaboration, and coordination are absolutely vital.

Seasonal Diversity of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) in the Mangrove Forests of Bakkhali, Sundarban, India

2024-04-18T14:44:16+07:00

Mangroves, despite thriving at the fringes of habitat tolerance in coastal regions, stand out as one of the world’s most highly productive ecosystems. This study delves into the remarkable symbiotic relationship between mangroves and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Specifically, it assesses seasonal diversity in six true mangrove species and four associated species, situated in Henry’s Island, Bakkhali, India. Spore density and root colonization were examined across different seasons. The highest spore density was observed in Heritiera fomes (a timber-producing mangrove) during the post-monsoon season, followed by pre-monsoon and monsoon periods. Root colonization was notably prominent in Ceriops tagal (Indian mangrove), Bruguira gymnorrhiza (Oriental mangrove), and Sonneratia alba (flowering evergreen mangrove) during both pre- and post-monsoon seasons. This study unveiled a rich fungal diversity, with a total of 60 AMF species belonging to 13 genera. Among these, the genus Glomus emerged as the dominant group, with species such as G. deserticola along with another genus Rhizophagus intraradics displaying widespread distribution. Notably, Glomus consistently ranked as the most prevalent genus throughout the year, indicating its remarkable adaptability and strong dispersal capacity in both true and associate mangrove plant species. This research sheds light on the seasonal dynamics of AMF associations in mangrove ecosystems, emphasizing the significance of Glomus as a key player in this symbiotic relationship. These findings contribute to our understanding of the ecological intricacies within mangrove habitats and highlight the adaptability of certain AMF genera to varying environmental conditions.

Comparison of the Yield and Quality of Teak Wood from Different Plantations in Phrae Province, Thailand

2024-06-20T11:07:54+07:00

This study aims to compare the yield and quality of Teak wood from a Forest Industry Organization (FIO) plantation and a private teak plantation (PTP) in Thailand to provide guidelines for the sustainable utilization of teak wood. To quantify yields, we employed a randomized design at two locations (FIO and PTP), and determined volumetric proportions, the yields of milled teak and wood properties. We found that the whole lumber yield differed significantly (p≤0.05) between the two locations, although the yield of lumber sheets did not differ (p>0.05). While more teak wood was produced at the FIO plantation than the PTP, the sawing techniques used at the two locations resulted in no significant difference in wood yield. Wood drying had significantly different effects (p≤0.05) between the two locations, but the drying method did not differ (p>0.05). Overall, the lumber yields were greater for timber harvested from an FIO plantation than a PTP. Even though there are differences in sawing techniques adopted, the final lumber yield did not differ significantly between these two sources. The mechanical properties of teak wood improved with kiln drying, FIO plantation exhibits better properties than dried wood from the PTP.

Space-Time Variability of Drought in Tay Nguyen Provinces, Vietnam Using Satellite-Based Vegetation Time Series from 2000 to 2023

2024-07-03T15:39:08+07:00

Droughts are among the most costly hazards in Tay Nguyen (known as Vietnamese Central Highlands), causing significant threats to agriculture and vegetation ecosystems. This study investigated the spatial and temporal dynamics of vegetation-based drought in the Tay Nguyen Provinces of Dak Lak and Dak Nong, using a long-term series of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer (MODIS) Vegetation Condition Index (VCI) from 2000 to 2023. The results exhibited a high positive correlation (R=0.73) between VCI and soil moisture-based drought index in drought-detected areas. Monthly analysis revealed severe drought events during the dry months, notably in 2005, 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2019. In contrast, wetter conditions were primarily observed during 2017-2018 and 2022-2023. Despite temporal variability of drought, larger trends of decreasing and increasing vegetation-based drought were detected during the dry season. These trends remained a relatively stable during the rainy season. Among vegetation types, shrubland exhibited the lowest VCI trends. This research offers valuable insights for stakeholders and policymakers to develop targeted strategies for sustainable land management and regional drought resilience.

Warming Effect from Soil Greenhouse Gas Emission of Each Mangrove Zone during the Dry Season in Ngurah Rai Forest Park, Bali, Indonesia

2024-07-09T10:04:35+07:00

In addition to functioning as a carbon sink, mangrove soil also releases greenhouse gases (GHGs) through microbial metabolism. GHG flux fluctuates according to the ecological parameters of mangroves and climate variability. We quantified GHG fluxes from the soil using a closed-chamber technique and assessed soil and porewater conditions in three primary mangrove zones (each zone was dominated by one of the mangrove types) at Ngurah Rai Forest Park, Bali, Indonesia, categorized by genera: Bruguiera, Rhizophora, and Sonneratia. We found that the CO₂ flux ranged from 322.5 to 3,494.5 µg/m²/h, CH₄ flux ranged from -24.7 to 60.9 µg/m²/h, and N₂O flux ranged from -1.2 to 2.3 µg/m²/h. None of the GHG fluxes varied significantly between mangrove zones. Overall, the highest CO₂ fluxes were observed in the Bruguiera zones, while the highest CH₄and N₂O fluxes were found in the Sonneratia and Rhizophora zones, respectively. A significant relationship between GHG fluxes and soil properties, including soil organic carbon (SOC), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), water content, bulk density, and soil type. The average warming effect on GHG fluxes ranged from 0.9 and 1.8 MgCO₂/ha/year, accounting for only 1.1% to 2.2% of the annual plant carbon sequestration rate of 75.9 to 81.6 MgCO₂/ha/year. These findings suggest that the variability of GHG fluxes is not significantly influenced by mangrove type; instead, soil conditions play a crucial role. Calculations of the net carbon stock may overlook the relatively low warming effect of GHG fluxes in this area.

Distribution of Salinity in Surface Water Surrounding Salt Mines in Non Thai and Phra Thong Kham Districts, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand

2024-05-24T11:11:25+07:00

Nakhon Ratchasima Province faces significant challenges due to saline soil and water, resulting from natural salt rock deposits and salt mining activities. This study investigates the physicochemical properties, salinity distribution, and surface water quality in Non Thai and Phra Thong Kham District. A total of 75 samples were collected, with 48 from Non Thai and 27 from Phra Thong Kham. The analysis focused on properties such as temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity, chloride, sodium, calcium, and magnesium. Water quality was assessed using standards from the Thai Department of Health and the World Health Organization. Additionally, the Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) was employed to evaluate irrigation suitability, and ArcGIS 10.5 was utilized to map salinity and water quality distribution. Results indicated that surface water pH remained relatively neutral and within acceptable limits. However, salinity levels varied from 0.5 to 30 ppt, indicating brackish to saline conditions. In several areas, concentrations of salinity, sodium, and chloride exceeded standard limits. Factors such as proximity to salt mines, water flow direction, lower terrain, and smaller reservoirs were linked to increased salinity, with Phang Thiam Subdistrict in Phra Thong Kham District showing the highest levels. The SAR index further indicated that water quality in Phra Thong Kham was unsuitable for domestic use and irrigation, unlike Non Thai. Further research in other salt mine areas are essential for a deeper understanding of salinity distribution, which is crucial for assessing risks and making informed decisions to protect public health and the environment.

Enhancement of Shear Strength Properties of Soft Clay Using Coir Fiber-Coconut Husk Ash-Wood Ash Mixture

2024-06-19T14:57:11+07:00

Soft clay is a problematic type of soil because it has high water content, low shear strength, low bearing capacity, and high compressibility. This study explores the effectiveness of stabilizing soft clay using a combination of coir fiber, coconut husk ash, and wood ash. This research investigated the impact of incorporating 0.75% coir fiber and varying levels of a coconut husk ash-wood ash mixture (ranging from 0% to 10%) on the shear strength properties of soft clay. The study applied two different curing times: seven and 21 days. An unconsolidated-undrained triaxial test was conducted following ASTM D2850-03. The results demonstrated that combining coir fiber reinforcement with chemical stabilization through the ash mixture significantly enhanced the deviatoric stress, cohesion, internal friction angle, shear strength, and elastic modulus of soft soil. Specifically, an 8% ash content with a 21-day curing time achieved the highest deviatoric stress and shear strength. This highest shear strength value was 210% greater than soil solely reinforced with coir fiber.