LOWLAND DIPTEROCARP FORESTS

Lowland dipterocarp forests are tropical rainforests dominated by dipterocarp trees. These forests are found in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Borneo. Characteristics

• Trees: Dipterocarp trees are tall hardwoods with two-winged fruits. They are known for their cauliflower-shaped crowns. 
• Flowering: Dipterocarp trees flower infrequently, sometimes only once or twice every 10 years. 
• Habitat: Dipterocarp trees thrive in well-drained areas, and can be found up to an altitude of about 1,000 meters. 
• Timber: Dipterocarp trees are a source of valuable timber. 
• Other products: Dipterocarp trees are also a source of aromatic oils and resins. 

Diversity

• The greatest diversity of dipterocarp trees occurs in Borneo. 
• In Borneo, over 270 species of dipterocarp trees have been identified, with 155 of them endemic to the island. 

Conservation 

• Logging has reduced the size of many dipterocarp forests in Malaysia.
• Taman Negara in Peninsular Malaysia contains 80% of the remaining virgin lowland forests in the region.