Mapping the Vulnerability of Asian Rosewood Species to Multiple Threats: A Guide for Prioritizing Conservation and Restoration Areas Considering Ecoregional Diversity

Gaisberger H.; Fremout T.; Kettle C.; Warrier R.R.; So T.; Sreng S.; Bounithiphonh C.; Ping H.; Yongqi Z.; Yuskianti V.; Jalonen R. · Materials Horizons: From Nature to Nanomaterials (2025) · DOI: 10.1007/978-981-96-9459-4_30

Resumen

Rosewoods, including species belonging to the genus of Dalbergia, are highly prized for their rich color, durability, and unique grain patterns, making their wood desirable for furniture, musical instruments, and decorative items. However, many rosewood species face severe threats due to habitat loss, illegal logging, and overexploitation. This chapter examines the vulnerability of five Dalbergia species (Dalbergia cochinchinensis, D. cultrata, D. latifolia, D. oliveri, and D. sissoo) to current threats (overexploitation, fire, overgrazing, and habitat conversion) and climate change across their native ranges in Asia using a spatially explicit approach. The vulnerability of each species to the threats is analyzed by ecoregion and compared to land cover data and designated protected areas, to provide insights into their threat status. In addition, we make recommendations for the establishment of new conservation and restoration areas to ensure the long-term viability of these tree populations through climate-smart seed sourcing with maximized intraspecific genetic diversity. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025.