Difference between revisions of "Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra" - New World Encyclopedia

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{{Infobox World Heritage Site
 
{{Infobox World Heritage Site
 
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'''Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra''' comprises three [[Indonesia]]n national parks on the island of [[Sumatra]] — Gunung Leuser National Park, Kerinci Seblat National Park and the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park.
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The '''Tropical Rainforest of Sumatra''', is situated in the middle of the [[island]] [[Sumatra]], [[Indonesia]], and consists of three national parks; Gunung Leuser National Park {{convert|8629.75|km²}}, Kerinci Seblat National Park (KSNP) {{convert|13753.50|km²}} and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (BBSNP) {{convert|3568|km²}}. The [[rainforest]] covers a total area of {{convert|25000|km2}}, and represents a major portion of all the forests on the island of Sumatra.  
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[[UNESCO]] designated the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra a  [[World Heritage]] in 2004. The site is listed under Criteria vii - outstanding scenic beauty; ix- an outstanding example representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes; and x- contains the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation.
 
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==Location and Size==
 
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The Tropical Rainforest of Sumatra, situated on the middle of Sumatra, Indonesia, consists of three national parks; Gunung Leuser National Park {{convert|8629.75|km²}}, Kerinci Seblat National Park (KSNP) {{convert|13753.50|km²}} and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (BBSNP) {{convert|3568|km²}}.<ref>Patrick Witton, ''Indonesia'' (Melbourne: Lonely Planet, 2003), p. 430</ref> The [[rainforest]] covers a total area of {{convert|25000|km2}}, representing major portion of forests on the island of Sumatra. UNESCO designated ''The Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra'' a [[World Heritage Site]] for its biodiversity and its lowland and mountain forest. This once vast island of tropical rainforest has been condensed to secluded areas, in the space of fifty years.
 
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The national parks that make up the heritage all locate on the key spine of the [[Bukit Barisan]] Mountains, known as the ‘[[Andes]] of Sumatra’. A magnificent panoramic view greets the explorer.<ref>Kim H. Tan, ''Soils in the humid tropics and monsoon region of Indonesia. Books in soils, plants, and the environment'' (Boca Raton: CRC Press, 2008), p. 35</ref> The mountainous and untouched national parks constitute a contrast to the established and developed lowlands of Sumatra. The mixture of the stunning [[Lake Gunung Tujuh]] (the highest lake in [[Southeast Asia]]), the splendor of the giant [[Mount Kerinci]] [[volcano]], many small volcanic, coastal and glacial lakes in natural forested settings create an environment of stunning beauty.  
 
  
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The three national parks host varied habitats and exceptional [[biodiversity]]. The comprise fifty percent of the total plant variety in Sumatra. At least ninety two local common species have been recognized in Gunung Leuser National Park. Populations of both the world’s largest flower ([[Rafflesia arnoldi]]) and the tallest flower ([[Amorphophallus titanum]]) exist.<ref>Danielle Nierenberg, ''State of the world 2006: a Worldwatch Institute report on progress toward a sustainable society'' (New York: W.W. Norton, 2006), p. 125</ref>
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The national parks that make up the heritage site are all located on the spine of the [[Bukit Barisan]] Mountains, known as the [[Andes]] of Sumatra. Offering a magnificent panoramic view, the mountainous and untouched national parks contrast remarkably to the cultivated and developed lowlands of Sumatra. The mixed views from the Bukit Barisan mountain chain of the stunning [[Lake Gunung Tujuh]] (the highest lake in [[Southeast Asia]]), the splendor of the giant [[volcano]] [[Mount Kerinci]], and many small volcanic, coastal and glacial lakes in natural forest settings create an environment of spectacular beauty.
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{{toc}}
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The three national parks host varied habitats and unique [[biodiversity]]. They comprise 50 percent of the total plant variety in Sumatra. At least ninety local common species have been recognized in Gunung Leuser National Park. Populations of both the world’s largest flower ([[Rafflesia arnoldi]]) and the world's tallest flower ([[Amorphophallus titanum]]) are found there. During the twentieth century, this once vast island tropical rainforest was condensed into secluded areas in the space of 50 years. [[UNESCO]] designated ''The Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra'' a [[World Heritage Site]] for its [[biodiversity]] and its lowland and mountain forest.  
  
 
==Geography==
 
==Geography==
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The mountains have year-round little changing high temperatures, high humidity and high rainfall for nine months in wetter areas, seven months in drier areas. That climate has encouraged the high speciation (formation of new species) and variety of species. Gunung Leuser National Park, receives {{convert|3000|mm}} of [[rainfall]], in the north, and collects {{convert|4657|mm}} in the lowland south. Temperatures average between 21 °C to 28 °C and the humidity  measures above sixty percent, especially when over {{convert|1700|m}}. In Kerinci Seblat National Park, the rainfall averages {{convert|2990|mm}}, temperatures range from 16° to 28 °C with humidity high at (seventy seven-ninety percent). In Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, the rocky west received heavy rain fall, especially during the November to May [[monsoon]]: rainfall measures {{convert|3000|mm}}-{{convert|4000|mm}}. The east receives less rain, with {{convert|2500|mm}}-{{convert|3000|mm}} of rainfall and the temperature ranging between 20°and 28 °C.
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[[Image:Sumatra.png|thumb|right|220px|Sumatra]]
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The mountains have year-round little changing high temperatures, high humidity and high rainfall for nine months in wetter areas, seven months in drier areas.<ref>Patrick Witton. ''Indonesia.'' (Melbourne: Lonely Planet, 2003), 430</ref> That climate has encouraged the high speciation (formation of new species) and variety of species. Gunung Leuser National Park, receives {{convert|3000|mm}} of [[rainfall]], in the north, and collects {{convert|4657|mm}} in the lowland south. Temperatures average between {{convert|21|C}} to {{convert|28|C}} and the humidity  measures above 60 percent, especially when over {{convert|1700|m}}. In Kerinci Seblat National Park, the rainfall averages {{convert|2990|mm}}, temperatures range from {{convert|16|C}} to {{convert|28|C}} with humidity high at 77-97 percent). In Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, the rocky west received heavy [[rain]] fall, especially during the November to May [[monsoon]]: rainfall measures {{convert|3000|mm}}-{{convert|4000|mm}}. The east receives less rain, with {{convert|2500|mm}}-{{convert|3000|mm}} of rainfall and the temperature ranging between {{convert|20|C}}and {{convert|28|C}}.
  
 
==Gunung Leuser National Park==
 
==Gunung Leuser National Park==
 
{{Infobox_protected_area | name = Gunung Leuser National Park
 
{{Infobox_protected_area | name = Gunung Leuser National Park
 
   | iucn_category = II
 
   | iucn_category = II
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   | image =  
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   | caption = "Orang-utan" is Bahasa (Indonesian) for "man of the forest".
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   | caption = "Orang-utan" is Bahasa (Indonesian) for "man of the forest."  
 
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'''Gunung Leuser National Park''' is a [[national park]] covering {{convert|7927|km²}} in northern [[Sumatra]], [[Indonesia]], straddling the border of [[North Sumatra]] and [[Aceh]] provinces.<ref>World Database on Protected Areas: [http://sea.unep-wcmc.org/wdpa/sitedetails.cfm?siteid=1251&level=nat Entry of Gunung Leuser National Park]</ref> The national park, named after 3,381&nbsp;m height of [[Mount Leuser]], protects a wide range of ecosystems. An [[orangutan]] sanctuary of [[Bukit Lawang]] sits inside the park. Together with Bukit Barisan Selatan and Kerinci Seblat national parks it forms a [[World Heritage Site]], [[Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra]].<ref name="heritage_sumatra">{{cite web
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'''Gunung Leuser National Park''' is a [[national park]] covering {{convert|7927|km²}} in northern [[Sumatra]], [[Indonesia]], straddling the border of [[North Sumatra]] and [[Aceh]] provinces.<ref>World Database on Protected Areas: [http://sea.unep-wcmc.org/wdpa/sitedetails.cfm?siteid=1251&level=nat Entry of Gunung Leuser National Park]. ''wcmc.org''.</ref> The national park, named after {{convert|3381|m}} high [[Mount Leuser]], protects a wide range of ecosystems. An [[orangutan]] sanctuary of [[Bukit Lawang]] sits inside the park.  
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  | url = http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1167
 
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  | title = Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra
 
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  | publisher = [[UNESCO]]
 
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  | accessdate=2008-12-09}}</ref>
 
  
 
===Animals===
 
===Animals===
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Gunung Leuser National Park numbers among the eighteen Indonesian regions classified by the [[World Wide Fund for Nature]] (WWF) among the 200 global ecoregions of importance for preservation of the world’s biodiversity.<ref>John Terborgh, ''Requiem for nature'' (Washington, D.C.: Island Press [for] Shearwater Books, 2004, p. 163)</ref> 174 [[mammals]], three [[endemism|endemic]] and twenty one listed as threatened in 2000. Little is known about the smaller mammals. 380 species of birds have been listed, thirteen endemic and fifty two threatened. Some of the important species include the [[orangutan]], [[Sumatran rhinoceros]], and the pigtailed monkey. Important plants include Rafflesia arnoldi, and the Amorphophallus titanium. Rueck’s blue flycatcher and the white winged duck number among the several important bird species.
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Gunung Leuser National Park numbers among the 18 Indonesian regions classified by the [[World Wide Fund for Nature]] (WWF) among the 200 global ecoregions of importance for preservation of the world’s biodiversity.<ref>John Terborgh. ''Requiem for nature.'' (Washington, DC: Island Press [for] Shearwater Books, 2004), 163</ref> 174 [[mammals]], three [[endemism|endemic]] and 21 listed as threatened in 2000. Little is known about the smaller mammals. 380 species of birds have been listed, 13 endemic and 52 threatened. Some of the important species include the [[orangutan]], [[Sumatran rhinoceros]], and the pigtailed [[monkey]]. Important plants include Rafflesia arnoldi, and the Amorphophallus titanium.<ref>Danielle Nierenberg. ''State of the world 2006: a Worldwatch Institute report on progress toward a sustainable society.'' (New York: W.W. Norton, 2006), 125</ref> Rueck’s blue flycatcher and the white winged duck number among the several important bird species.
  
 
===Geography===
 
===Geography===
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[[Gunung Leuser National Park]] in the north extends {{convert|150|km}} in length and {{convert|100|km}} in width. , Mostly mountainous, forty percent of the park stands over {{1,500|m}} in height. Twelve percent of the Park, in the lower southern half, stands less than {{convert|600|m}}, running {{convert|25|km}} along the coast. Eleven peaks stand over {{convert|2700|m}}, [[Gunung Leuser]] the highest peak at {{convert|3466|m}}.
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Gunung Leuser National Park in the north extends {{convert|150|km}} in length and {{convert|100|km}} in width. Mostly mountainous, 40 percent of the park stands over {{1,500|m}} in height. Twelve percent of the Park, in the lower southern half, stands less than {{convert|600|m}}, running {{convert|25|km}} along the coast. Eleven peaks stand over {{convert|2700|m}}, [[Gunung Leuser]] the highest peak at {{convert|3466|m}}.  
  
 
=== Ecology ===
 
=== Ecology ===
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Gunung Leuser National Park is one of the two remaining habitat for [[Sumatran Orangutan]]s (''Pongo abelii'').<ref>{{cite journal| title=The status of the Sumatran orang-utan ''Pongo abelii'': an update| author=S. A. Wich; I. Singleton; S. S. Utami-Atmoko; M. L. Geurts; H. D. Rijksen; and C. P. van Schaik| journal=Flora & Fauna International| volume=37| issue=1| date=2003| doi=10.1017/S0030605303000115| pages=49}}</ref> In 1971, Herman Rijksen established the [[Ketambe research station]], a specially designated research area for the orangutan.<ref>{{cite journal| title=Life history of wild Sumatran orangutans (''Pongo abelii'')| author=S. A. Wich; S. S. Utami-Atmoko; T. M. Setia; H. D. Rijksen; C. Schürmann, J.A.R.A.M. van Hooff and C. P. van Schaik| journal=Journal of Human Evolution | volume=47| issue=6| date=2004| pages=385&ndash;398| doi=10.1016/j.jhevol.2004.08.006}}</ref>
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Gunung Leuser National Park serves as one of the two remaining habitat for [[Sumatran Orangutan]]s ''(Pongo abelii).''<ref>S. A. Wich; I. Singleton; S. S. Utami-Atmoko; M. L. Geurts; H. D. Rijksen; and C. P. van Schaik, "The status of the Sumatran orang-utan ''Pongo abelii'': an update." ''Flora & Fauna International'' 37 (1) (2003): 49  doi=10.1017/S0030605303000115.</ref> In 1971, Herman Rijksen established the [[Ketambe research station]], a specially designated research area for the orangutan.<ref>S. A. Wich; S. S. Utami-Atmoko; T. M. Setia; H. D. Rijksen; C. Schürmann, J.A.R.A.M. van Hooff and C. P. van Schaik, "Life history of wild Sumatran orangutans ''(Pongo abelii)''." ''Journal of Human Evolution'' 47 (6) (2004): 385&ndash;398. [http://www.greatapetrust.org/pdfs/Life%20History%20of%20Wild%20Orangutans%20-%20Wich.pdf]. (PDF) Retrieved September 13, 2009.</ref>
  
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=== Threats ===
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=== Environmental threats ===
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[[Image:Jungle Life Indonesia Gunung Leuser National Park.jpg|thumb|right|220px|Jungle Life, Indonesia, Gunung Leuser National Park]]
 
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In November 1995 the [[Langkat Regency]] government proposed a road to connect an old enclave, known as Sapo Padang, inside the park. In persute of business opportunities, 34 families who had been living in the enclave formed a cooperative in March 1996 and subsequently submitted a proposal to develop an [[oil palm]] plantation in August 1997.<ref name="oilpalm">{{cite book|author=Emily Matthews, Global Forest Watch (Organization) and Forest Watch Indonesia (Organization)| title=The State of Forest in Indonesia| url=http://www.globalforestwatch.org/common/indonesia/sof.indonesia.english.low.pdf| publisher=World Resources Institute| location=Washington DC| accessdate=2007-01-11|date=2002| id=ISBN 1-56973-492-5| othesr=Box 2.3. Oil Palm Development in Gunung Leuser National Park, p.21}}</ref> The oil palm proposal was accepted by the regency and the head of the park agreed to the road construction.
 
  
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In accordance to the government's Proverty Alleviation Program, the oil palm project proceed with 42.5&nbsp;km² of clearance area, but the project has made a major forest destruction of the park during its implementation.<ref name="oilpalm"/> The local cooperation unit formed a partnership with PT Amal Tani which has strong relationship with the military command in the area.{{ref label|army_conn|note 1|1}} In January 1998, the Indonesian Forest Ministry granted a permission of 11&nbsp;km road to be built. In June 1998, local office of the Forestry Service issued a decree stating that the Sapo Padang enclave was no longer legally a part of the national park; a controversial decision which consequently led to further forest destruction during the road construction and invited newcomers to [[slash and burn]] forest area to create local plantations a way deeper to the park.
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In November 1995, the [[Langkat Regency]] government proposed a road to connect an enclave, known as Sapo Padang, inside the park. At that time, 34 families who had been living in the enclave formed a cooperative in March 1996. They submitted a proposal to develop an [[oil palm]] plantation in August 1997.<ref name="oilpalm">Emily Matthews, Global Forest Watch (Organization) and Forest Watch Indonesia (Organization). ''The State of Forest in Indonesia.'' (Washington, DC: World Resources Institute. 2002. ISBN 1569734925), 21. [http://www.globalforestwatch.org/common/indonesia/sof.indonesia.english.low.pdf]. accessdate 2008-12-09 </ref> In accordance to the government's Poverty Alleviation Program, the authorities accepted the oil palm proposal and the road construction. The project has resulted in [[deforestation]] of {{convert|42.5|km²}} In June 1998, local office of the Forestry Service issued a decree stating that the Sapo Padang enclave was no longer legally a part of the national park; a controversial decision which consequently led to further forest destruction during the road construction and invited newcomers to [[slash and burn]] forest area to create local plantations a way deeper to the park.  
  
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In 1999, two university-based [[NGO]]s filed a legal suit to the Medan State Court, while a group of 61 [[lawyer]]s brought a parallel case in the National Administrative Court. In July 1999 the National Administrative Court rejected the case, while the local NGOs won with 30 million rupiahs damage, but the legal process continues with [[appeal]]s.<ref name="oilpalm"/> The legal process did not stop the project that extensive logging and clearing, road-building and oil palm plantation continue operating inside the national park.
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In 1999, two university-based [[NGO]]s filed a legal suit to the Medan State Court, while a group of 61 [[lawyer]]s brought a parallel case in the National Administrative Court. The National Administrative Court rejected the case, while the local NGOs won with 30 million rupiahs damage in their case.<ref name="oilpalm"/> Extensive logging and clearing, road-building and oil palm plantation continued operating inside the national park during and after the court cases.
  
 
==Kerinci Seblat National Park==
 
==Kerinci Seblat National Park==
 
{{Infobox_protected_area | name = Kerinci Seblat National Park
 
{{Infobox_protected_area | name = Kerinci Seblat National Park
 
   | iucn_category = II
 
   | iucn_category = II
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   | image = Jungle Mist.jpg|Kerinci Seblat National Park, Jambi, Sumatra, Indonesia
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'''Kerinci Seblat National Park''' is the largest [[national park]] in [[Sumatra]] [[Indonesia]]. It has a total area of 13,750 km², and spans four provinces:  
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'''Kerinci Seblat National Park''' is the largest [[national park]] in [[Sumatra]] [[Indonesia]] with a total area of {{convert|13750|km²}}, spaning four provinces:  
 
*[[West Sumatra]],  
 
*[[West Sumatra]],  
 
*[[Jambi]],  
 
*[[Jambi]],  
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===Geography===
 
===Geography===
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Kerinci Seblat National Park in the centre extends {{convert|350|km}} down the back of the Bukit Barisan, averaging {{convert|45|km}} wide and {{convert|2000|m}} above sea level. The northern half has a lower eastern mountain range, between {{convert|800|m}}-{{convert|1500|m}}. Three quarters of the park is steep. The highest point, and highest volcano in Indonesia, is the Mount Kerinci, standing at {{convert|3805|m}}.    
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Kerinci Seblat National Park extends {{convert|350|km}} along the Bukit Barisan, averaging {{convert|45|km}} wide and {{convert|2000|m}} above sea level.<ref>Kim H. Tan. ''Soils in the humid tropics and monsoon region of Indonesia. Books in soils, plants, and the environment.'' (Boca Raton: CRC Press, 2008), 35</ref> The mountains range in the northern part measure {{convert|800|m}}-{{convert|1500|m}} in height. Most of the park is mountainous. Mount Kerinci, stands {{convert|3805|m}}, the highest mountain and [[volcano]] in [[Indonesia]]. Located between 100°31'18"E - 102°44'01"E and 1°07'13"S - 3°26'14"S, the park includes hot springs, rivers with rapids, caves, scenic [[waterfall]]s, and the highest caldera lake in [[Southeast Asia]] - [[Lake Gunung Tujuh]].
  
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It is located between 100°31'18"E - 102°44'01"E and 1°07'13"S - 3°26'14"S. Together with [[Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park|Bukit Barisan Selatan]] and Gunung Leuser national parks it forms a [[World Heritage Site]], [[Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra]].<ref name="heritage_sumatra">{{cite web
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===Fauna and flora===
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  | url = http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1167
 
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  | title = Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra
 
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  | publisher = [[UNESCO]]
 
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  | accessdate=2007-09-30}}</ref>
 
  
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The park area includes a large part of the [[Barisan Mountains|Barisan mountain range]], including the highest peak in Sumatra, [[Mount Kerinci]] (3,805 m). The park includes hot springs, rivers with rapids, caves, scenic waterfalls and the highest caldera lake in [[Southeast Asia]] - [[Lake Gunung Tujuh]].
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The park serves as home to a diversity of fauna and flora: 85 [[mammal]] species have been recorded, including five endemic and 23 threatened. [[Sumatran Tiger]]s, [[Sumatran Rhinoceros]], [[Sumatran elephant]]s, [[Bornean Clouded Leopard]], [[Malayan Tapir]], [[Sun Bear|Malay Sun Bear]] number among the rare fauna.
  
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==Fauna and Flora==
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370 species of birds have been listed including 23 endemic and 58 threatened. The White-winged duck and the Sumatran ground cuckoo number among rare bird species. Over 4000 plant species grow in the park area, including the world's largest flower, ''[[Rafflesia arnoldi]],'' and the tallest flower, [[Titan Arum]]. [[Hopea beccariana]], ''Shorea ovalis ssp. seicea'' number among the rare plants.
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[[Image:Danau Gunung Tujuh.jpg|right|thumb|220px|Sampan traversing the lake in Kerinci Seblat National Park, Jambi, Sumatra, Indonesia]]
 
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In Kerinci Seblat National Park, 85 mammal species are recorded, 5 endemic and 23 listed threatened 370 species of birds are listed, 13 being endemic and 58 threatened. Some important mammal species: [[Bornean Clouded Leopard]], Asian [[tapir]], and the Sumatran rhino. Several important bird species: White-winged duck and the Sumatran ground cuckoo. A few of important plant species: [[Hopea beccariana]], Shorea ovalis ssp.seicea.
 
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The park is home to diversity of flora and fauna. Over 4,000 plant species grow in the park area, including the world's largest flower, ''[[Rafflesia arnoldi]]'', and the tallest flower, [[Titan Arum]]. The fauna include [[Sumatran Tiger]]s, [[Sumatran Rhinoceros]], [[Sumatran elephant]]s, [[Bornean Clouded Leopard]], [[Malayan Tapir]], [[Sun Bear|Malay Sun Bear]] and 370 bird species.
 
  
 
==Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park==
 
==Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park==
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'''Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park''' is a national park in [[Sumatra]], [[Indonesia]]. The park has a total area of 3,568 km², and spans three provinces:
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'''Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park''' is a national park in [[Sumatra]], [[Indonesia]]. Starting as a [[Wildlife Sanctuary]] in 1935, the area became a National Park in 1982. The park has a total area of {{convert|3568|km²}}, and spans three provinces:
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* [[Lampung]],
 
* [[Lampung]],
 
* [[Bengkulu]],
 
* [[Bengkulu]],
 
* [[South Sumatra]]
 
* [[South Sumatra]]
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Starting as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1935, the area became a National Park in 1982. Together with [[Gunung Leuser National Park|Gunung Leuser]] and [[Kerinci Seblat National Park|Kerinci Seblat]] national parks it forms a [[World Heritage Site]], [[Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra]].<ref name="heritage_sumatra">{{cite web
 
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  | url = http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1167
 
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  | title = Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra
 
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  | publisher = [[UNESCO]]
 
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===Geography===
 
===Geography===
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Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park is also {{convert|350|km}} long but only {{convert|45|km}} wide on average. The northern two-thirds are rocky, averaging {{convert|1500|m}} with the highest point, Mount Pulung standing at {{convert|1964|m}}. The southern half is lower; {{convert|90|km}} of it is a cape and the Park borders the sea for half its length. Many of [[rivers]] derive in the Parks and there are several lakes and hot springs.
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Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park is {{convert|350|km}} long and {{convert|45|km}} wide on average. The northern two-thirds of the park are mountainous, averaging {{convert|1500|m}} with the highest point, Mount Pulung standing at {{convert|1964|m}}. Mountains in the southern half stand at a lower altitude. {{convert|90|km}} forms a cape with borders on the sea for half its length. Many of [[rivers]] have their source the park. Several [[lake]]s and [[hot springs]] may be found.
  
 
==Fauna and Flora==
 
==Fauna and Flora==
  
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Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, has 98 mammals are recorded, with 1 endemic and 25 threatened 379 species of birds are listed, 7 being endemic and 58. 59 reptile and [[amphibian]] species are recorded.<ref>Randall A. Kramer, Carel van Schaik, and Julie Johnson, ''Last stand: protected areas and the defense of tropical biodiversity'' (New York: Oxford University Press,1997), p. 43</ref> BBSNP has the same bird species as KSNP. Some important mammal species: [[Sumatran elephant]], and the [[leatherback turtle]].
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Ninety eight mammals have been recorded in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, one endemic and 25 threatened. 379 species of birds, seven endemic and 58 threatened, have been sighted. Fifty nine reptile and [[amphibian]] species are recorded.<ref>Randall A. Kramer, Carel van Schaik, and Julie Johnson. ''Last stand: protected areas and the defense of tropical biodiversity.'' (New York: Oxford University Press, 1997), 43</ref> BBSNP has the same bird species as KSNP. Some important mammal species: [[Sumatran elephant]], and the [[leatherback turtle]].
  
 
The park is home to many endangered species, including:
 
The park is home to many endangered species, including:
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* [[Sumatran Elephant]] (about 500 animals, or 25% of the total remaining population of this sub-species live in the park)
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* [[Sumatran Elephant]] (about 500 animals, or t25 percent of the total remaining population of this sub-species live in the park)
 
* [[Sumatran Striped Rabbit]]
 
* [[Sumatran Striped Rabbit]]
 
* [[Sumatran Rhino]] (an estimated 60-85 Sumatran rhinos live in the park, the largest population anywhere on Sumatra)
 
* [[Sumatran Rhino]] (an estimated 60-85 Sumatran rhinos live in the park, the largest population anywhere on Sumatra)
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* [[Sumatran Tiger]] (approximately 40 adult tigers or 10% of the remaining Sumatran tigers live in the park).
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* [[Sumatran Tiger]] (approximately 40 adult tigers or ten percent of the remaining Sumatran tigers live in the park).
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The park has recently lost 20% of its forests to illegal agriculture, according to the [[World Wide Fund for Nature]]. WWF found that more than 450 km² of park land is being used for growing coffee, and the organisation is now working with multinational coffee companies (including [[Nestle]]) to help them avoid buying illegally grown coffee.<ref> Claire Leow.  [http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/01/18/bloomberg/bxnestle.php Nestlé to scrutinize Indonesia coffee amid wildlife-endangerment fears], ''International Herald Tribune''.</ref>
 
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The park has recently lost 20 percent of its forests to illegal agriculture, according to the [[World Wide Fund for Nature]]. WWF found that more than {{convert|450|km²}} of park land is under [[coffee]] cultivation, and the organization has been working with multinational coffee companies (including [[Nestle]]) to avoid buying illegally grown coffee.<ref>Claire Leow, January 19, 2007. [http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/01/18/bloomberg/bxnestle.php Nestlé to scrutinize Indonesia coffee amid wildlife-endangerment fears], ''International Herald Tribune''. </ref>
  
 
==See Also==
 
==See Also==
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==Notes==
 
==Notes==
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
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<div class="references-small">
 
−
:{{note label|army_conn||1}} PT Amal Tani was owned by the immediate family of the commander of the Indonesian army's territorial military command of the area, ''KODAM I Bukit Barisan''. The principal function of the military partnership is to organize "administrative details" when obtaining permissions to build the roads and other related projects. The director of PT Amal Tani became the executive of the local cooperation unit. The military's unit charitable foundation, ''Yayasan Kodam I Bukit Barisan'', also involved in the project.<ref name="oilpalm"/>
 
−
</div>
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
−
* Kramer, Randall A., Carel van Schaik, and Julie Johnson. 1997. Last stand: protected areas and the defense of tropical biodiversity. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780195095548.
+
* Kramer, Randall A., Carel van Schaik, and Julie Johnson. ''Last stand: protected areas and the defense of tropical biodiversity.'' New York: Oxford University Press, 1997. ISBN 9780195095548.
−
* Nierenberg, Danielle. 2006. State of the world 2006: a Worldwatch Institute report on progress toward a sustainable society. New York: W.W. Norton. ISBN 9780393327717.
+
* Matthews, Emily, and Global Forest Watch (Organization) and Forest Watch Indonesia (Organization). ''The State of Forest in Indonesia.'' Washington, DC: World Resources Institute. 2002. ISBN 1569734925.
−
* Tan, Kim H. 2008. Soils in the humid tropics and monsoon region of Indonesia. Books in soils, plants, and the environment. Boca Raton: CRC Press. ISBN 9781420069075.
+
* Nierenberg, Danielle. ''State of the world 2006: a Worldwatch Institute report on progress toward a sustainable society.'' New York: W.W. Norton, 2006. ISBN 9780393327717.
−
* Terborgh, John. 2004. Requiem for nature. Washington, D.C.: Island Press [for] Shearwater Books. ISBN 9781559635882.
+
* Tan, Kim H. ''Soils in the humid tropics and monsoon region of Indonesia.'' (Books in soils, plants, and the environment.) Boca Raton: CRC Press, 2008. ISBN 9781420069075.
−
* Witton, Patrick. 2003. Indonesia. Melbourne: Lonely Planet. ISBN 9781740591546.
+
* Terborgh, John. ''Requiem for nature.'' Washington, DC: Island Press [for] Shearwater Books, 2004. ISBN 9781559635882.
 +
* Witton, Patrick. ''Indonesia.'' Melbourne: Lonely Planet, 2003. ISBN 9781740591546.
  
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
−
Links retrieved December 8, 2008.
+
All links retrieved May 2, 2023.
 +
 
 
* [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1167 UNESCO World Heritage website]
 
* [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1167 UNESCO World Heritage website]
−
* [http://www.wcs.org/globalconservation/Asia/Indonesia/trhs Wildlife Conversation Society: Saving Rainforests]
 
−
* [http://www.wcs.org/globalconservation/Asia/Indonesia/trhs The Encyclopedia of the Earth: Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra, Indonesia]
 
−
* [http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=34886&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html Post-tsunami assistance for Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra and Nature Conservation Agency, Aceh Province, Indonesia]
 
 
* [http://www.leuserfoundation.org Leuser International Foundation]
 
* [http://www.leuserfoundation.org Leuser International Foundation]
−
* [http://sea.unep-wcmc.org/wdpa/sitedetails.cfm?siteid=4994&level=nat World Database on Protected Areas: Entry of Kerinci Seblat National Park]
+
 
−
* [http://www.panda.org/news_facts/newsroom/index.cfm?uNewsID=91840 WWF: Illegally grown coffee threatens tiger habitat in Indonesia]
 
−
* [http://sea.unep-wcmc.org/wdpa/sitedetails.cfm?siteid=1252&level=nat World Database on Protected Areas: Entry of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park]
 
  
 
{{World Heritage Sites in Indonesia}}
 
{{World Heritage Sites in Indonesia}}

Latest revision as of 18:18, 2 May 2023


Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra*
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The critically endangered Sumatran Orangutan, a great ape endemic to Sumatra, Indonesia
State Party Flag of Indonesia Indonesia
Type Natural
Criteria vii, ix, x
Reference 1167
Region** Asia-Pacific
Inscription history
Inscription 2004  (28th Session)
* Name as inscribed on World Heritage List.
** Region as classified by UNESCO.

The Tropical Rainforest of Sumatra, is situated in the middle of the island Sumatra, Indonesia, and consists of three national parks; Gunung Leuser National Park 8,629.75 square kilometers (3,331.97 sq mi), Kerinci Seblat National Park (KSNP) 13,753.50 square kilometers (5,310.26 sq mi) and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (BBSNP) 3,568 square kilometers (1,378 sq mi). The rainforest covers a total area of 25,000 square kilometers (9,700 sq mi), and represents a major portion of all the forests on the island of Sumatra.

The national parks that make up the heritage site are all located on the spine of the Bukit Barisan Mountains, known as the Andes of Sumatra. Offering a magnificent panoramic view, the mountainous and untouched national parks contrast remarkably to the cultivated and developed lowlands of Sumatra. The mixed views from the Bukit Barisan mountain chain of the stunning Lake Gunung Tujuh (the highest lake in Southeast Asia), the splendor of the giant volcano Mount Kerinci, and many small volcanic, coastal and glacial lakes in natural forest settings create an environment of spectacular beauty.

The three national parks host varied habitats and unique biodiversity. They comprise 50 percent of the total plant variety in Sumatra. At least ninety local common species have been recognized in Gunung Leuser National Park. Populations of both the world’s largest flower (Rafflesia arnoldi) and the world's tallest flower (Amorphophallus titanum) are found there. During the twentieth century, this once vast island tropical rainforest was condensed into secluded areas in the space of 50 years. UNESCO designated The Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra a World Heritage Site for its biodiversity and its lowland and mountain forest.

Geography

Sumatra

The mountains have year-round little changing high temperatures, high humidity and high rainfall for nine months in wetter areas, seven months in drier areas.[1] That climate has encouraged the high speciation (formation of new species) and variety of species. Gunung Leuser National Park, receives 3,000 millimeters (120 in) of rainfall, in the north, and collects 4,657 millimeters (183.3 in) in the lowland south. Temperatures average between 21 °C (70 °F) to 28 °C (82 °F) and the humidity measures above 60 percent, especially when over 1,700 meters (5,600 ft). In Kerinci Seblat National Park, the rainfall averages 2,990 millimeters (118 in), temperatures range from 16 °C (61 °F) to 28 °C (82 °F) with humidity high at 77-97 percent). In Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, the rocky west received heavy rain fall, especially during the November to May monsoon: rainfall measures 3,000 millimeters (120 in)-4,000 millimeters (160 in). The east receives less rain, with 2,500 millimeters (98 in)-3,000 millimeters (120 in) of rainfall and the temperature ranging between 20 °C (68 °F)and 28 °C (82 °F).

Gunung Leuser National Park

Gunung Leuser National Park
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Location: Sumatra, Indonesia
Area: 7,927 km²
Established: 1980

Gunung Leuser National Park is a national park covering 7,927 square kilometers (3,061 sq mi) in northern Sumatra, Indonesia, straddling the border of North Sumatra and Aceh provinces.[2] The national park, named after 3,381 meters (11,090 ft) high Mount Leuser, protects a wide range of ecosystems. An orangutan sanctuary of Bukit Lawang sits inside the park.

Animals

Gunung Leuser National Park numbers among the 18 Indonesian regions classified by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) among the 200 global ecoregions of importance for preservation of the world’s biodiversity.[3] 174 mammals, three endemic and 21 listed as threatened in 2000. Little is known about the smaller mammals. 380 species of birds have been listed, 13 endemic and 52 threatened. Some of the important species include the orangutan, Sumatran rhinoceros, and the pigtailed monkey. Important plants include Rafflesia arnoldi, and the Amorphophallus titanium.[4] Rueck’s blue flycatcher and the white winged duck number among the several important bird species.

Geography

Gunung Leuser National Park in the north extends 150 kilometers (93 mi) in length and 100 kilometers (62 mi) in width. Mostly mountainous, 40 percent of the park stands over Template:1,500 in height. Twelve percent of the Park, in the lower southern half, stands less than 600 meters (2,000 ft), running 25 kilometers (16 mi) along the coast. Eleven peaks stand over 2,700 meters (8,900 ft), Gunung Leuser the highest peak at 3,466 meters (11,370 ft).

Ecology

Gunung Leuser National Park serves as one of the two remaining habitat for Sumatran Orangutans (Pongo abelii).[5] In 1971, Herman Rijksen established the Ketambe research station, a specially designated research area for the orangutan.[6]

Environmental threats

In November 1995, the Langkat Regency government proposed a road to connect an enclave, known as Sapo Padang, inside the park. At that time, 34 families who had been living in the enclave formed a cooperative in March 1996. They submitted a proposal to develop an oil palm plantation in August 1997.[7] In accordance to the government's Poverty Alleviation Program, the authorities accepted the oil palm proposal and the road construction. The project has resulted in deforestation of 42.5 square kilometers (16.4 sq mi) In June 1998, local office of the Forestry Service issued a decree stating that the Sapo Padang enclave was no longer legally a part of the national park; a controversial decision which consequently led to further forest destruction during the road construction and invited newcomers to slash and burn forest area to create local plantations a way deeper to the park.

In 1999, two university-based NGOs filed a legal suit to the Medan State Court, while a group of 61 lawyers brought a parallel case in the National Administrative Court. The National Administrative Court rejected the case, while the local NGOs won with 30 million rupiahs damage in their case.[7] Extensive logging and clearing, road-building and oil palm plantation continued operating inside the national park during and after the court cases.

Kerinci Seblat National Park

Kerinci Seblat National Park
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Location: Sumatra, Indonesia
Area: 13,750 km²
Established: 1999

Kerinci Seblat National Park is the largest national park in Sumatra Indonesia with a total area of 13,750 square kilometers (5,310 sq mi), spaning four provinces:

  • West Sumatra,
  • Jambi,
  • Bengkulu and
  • South Sumatra.

Geography

Kerinci Seblat National Park extends 350 kilometers (220 mi) along the Bukit Barisan, averaging 45 kilometers (28 mi) wide and 2,000 meters (6,600 ft) above sea level.[8] The mountains range in the northern part measure 800 meters (2,600 ft)-1,500 meters (4,900 ft) in height. Most of the park is mountainous. Mount Kerinci, stands 3,805 meters (12,480 ft), the highest mountain and volcano in Indonesia. Located between 100°31'18"E - 102°44'01"E and 1°07'13"S - 3°26'14"S, the park includes hot springs, rivers with rapids, caves, scenic waterfalls, and the highest caldera lake in Southeast Asia - Lake Gunung Tujuh.

Fauna and flora

The park serves as home to a diversity of fauna and flora: 85 mammal species have been recorded, including five endemic and 23 threatened. Sumatran Tigers, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Sumatran elephants, Bornean Clouded Leopard, Malayan Tapir, Malay Sun Bear number among the rare fauna.

370 species of birds have been listed including 23 endemic and 58 threatened. The White-winged duck and the Sumatran ground cuckoo number among rare bird species. Over 4000 plant species grow in the park area, including the world's largest flower, Rafflesia arnoldi, and the tallest flower, Titan Arum. Hopea beccariana, Shorea ovalis ssp. seicea number among the rare plants.

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Geological map of Bukit Barisan mountain range.
Geological map of Bukit Barisan mountain range.
Location: Sumatra, Indonesia
Area: 3,568 km²
Established: 1982

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park is a national park in Sumatra, Indonesia. Starting as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1935, the area became a National Park in 1982. The park has a total area of 3,568 square kilometers (1,378 sq mi), and spans three provinces:

  • Lampung,
  • Bengkulu,
  • South Sumatra

Geography

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park is 350 kilometers (220 mi) long and 45 kilometers (28 mi) wide on average. The northern two-thirds of the park are mountainous, averaging 1,500 meters (4,900 ft) with the highest point, Mount Pulung standing at 1,964 meters (6,440 ft). Mountains in the southern half stand at a lower altitude. 90 kilometers (56 mi) forms a cape with borders on the sea for half its length. Many of rivers have their source the park. Several lakes and hot springs may be found.

Fauna and Flora

Ninety eight mammals have been recorded in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, one endemic and 25 threatened. 379 species of birds, seven endemic and 58 threatened, have been sighted. Fifty nine reptile and amphibian species are recorded.[9] BBSNP has the same bird species as KSNP. Some important mammal species: Sumatran elephant, and the leatherback turtle.

The park is home to many endangered species, including:

  • Sumatran Elephant (about 500 animals, or t25 percent of the total remaining population of this sub-species live in the park)
  • Sumatran Striped Rabbit
  • Sumatran Rhino (an estimated 60-85 Sumatran rhinos live in the park, the largest population anywhere on Sumatra)
  • Sumatran Tiger (approximately 40 adult tigers or ten percent of the remaining Sumatran tigers live in the park).

The park has recently lost 20 percent of its forests to illegal agriculture, according to the World Wide Fund for Nature. WWF found that more than 450 square kilometers (170 sq mi) of park land is under coffee cultivation, and the organization has been working with multinational coffee companies (including Nestle) to avoid buying illegally grown coffee.[10]

See Also

Notes

  1. ↑ Patrick Witton. Indonesia. (Melbourne: Lonely Planet, 2003), 430
  2. ↑ World Database on Protected Areas: Entry of Gunung Leuser National Park. wcmc.org.
  3. ↑ John Terborgh. Requiem for nature. (Washington, DC: Island Press [for] Shearwater Books, 2004), 163
  4. ↑ Danielle Nierenberg. State of the world 2006: a Worldwatch Institute report on progress toward a sustainable society. (New York: W.W. Norton, 2006), 125
  5. ↑ S. A. Wich; I. Singleton; S. S. Utami-Atmoko; M. L. Geurts; H. D. Rijksen; and C. P. van Schaik, "The status of the Sumatran orang-utan Pongo abelii: an update." Flora & Fauna International 37 (1) (2003): 49 doi=10.1017/S0030605303000115.
  6. ↑ S. A. Wich; S. S. Utami-Atmoko; T. M. Setia; H. D. Rijksen; C. Schürmann, J.A.R.A.M. van Hooff and C. P. van Schaik, "Life history of wild Sumatran orangutans (Pongo abelii)." Journal of Human Evolution 47 (6) (2004): 385–398. [1]. (PDF) Retrieved September 13, 2009.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Emily Matthews, Global Forest Watch (Organization) and Forest Watch Indonesia (Organization). The State of Forest in Indonesia. (Washington, DC: World Resources Institute. 2002. ISBN 1569734925), 21. [2]. accessdate 2008-12-09
  8. ↑ Kim H. Tan. Soils in the humid tropics and monsoon region of Indonesia. Books in soils, plants, and the environment. (Boca Raton: CRC Press, 2008), 35
  9. ↑ Randall A. Kramer, Carel van Schaik, and Julie Johnson. Last stand: protected areas and the defense of tropical biodiversity. (New York: Oxford University Press, 1997), 43
  10. ↑ Claire Leow, January 19, 2007. Nestlé to scrutinize Indonesia coffee amid wildlife-endangerment fears, International Herald Tribune.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Kramer, Randall A., Carel van Schaik, and Julie Johnson. Last stand: protected areas and the defense of tropical biodiversity. New York: Oxford University Press, 1997. ISBN 9780195095548.
  • Matthews, Emily, and Global Forest Watch (Organization) and Forest Watch Indonesia (Organization). The State of Forest in Indonesia. Washington, DC: World Resources Institute. 2002. ISBN 1569734925.
  • Nierenberg, Danielle. State of the world 2006: a Worldwatch Institute report on progress toward a sustainable society. New York: W.W. Norton, 2006. ISBN 9780393327717.
  • Tan, Kim H. Soils in the humid tropics and monsoon region of Indonesia. (Books in soils, plants, and the environment.) Boca Raton: CRC Press, 2008. ISBN 9781420069075.
  • Terborgh, John. Requiem for nature. Washington, DC: Island Press [for] Shearwater Books, 2004. ISBN 9781559635882.
  • Witton, Patrick. Indonesia. Melbourne: Lonely Planet, 2003. ISBN 9781740591546.

External links

All links retrieved May 2, 2023.


World Heritage Sites in Indonesia

Borobudur Temple Compounds · Komodo National Park · Lorentz National Park · Prambanan Temple Compounds · Sangiran Early Man Site · Ujung Kulon National Park · Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra

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