Village Fengshui forests contribute to the biodiversity conservation in mountainous villages: a case study of Pseudolarix amabilis

Abstract

Pseudolarix amabilis is one of the most internationally influential ancient relict plants in China, and faces a multitude of threats, including habitat fragmentation, population isolation, and declining numbers. Fortunately, the Village Fengshui forests, sacred forests protected by Fengshui culture, has emerged as a potential refuge for the natural population of P. amabilis. Nonetheless, the underlying mechanisms by which the Village Fengshui forests safeguards the natural population of P. amabilis warrant in-depth exploration. To address this research gap, this study employed rigorous field investigations and community interviews to comprehensively assess the recruitment status, conservation behaviors, and extent of disturbances for the natural population of P. amabilis. Moreover, we selected the P. amabilis population in Linjiatang as a representative study case to elucidate the protective and management paradigm of P. amabilis Village Fengshui forests. The results were as follows：(1) The diameter at breast height (DBH) structure of P. amabilis in the Village Fengshui forests exhibited continuity, and the seedling density was higher compared to other habitat types. (2) Protecting effectiveness of Village Fengshui forests in the natural population of P. amabilis could be attributed to the Fengshui and taboo cultures associated with Shuikou forest (Village Fengshui forests near water sources), cemetery forest, and Yangji tree (heritage tree near residential houses). (3) The development of rural tourism further contributed to the preservation of P. amabilis Village Fengshui forests. In conclusion, in the context of rural revitalization, the protection and management approach based on Fengshui and taboo cultures in Village Fengshui forests presents an effective paradigm for safeguarding the natural population of P. amabilis.

Keywords

• pseudolarix amabilis
• village fengshui forests
• conservation behavior
• management paradigm
• oecms
• rural revitalization