Effects of selective logging on the regeneration of two commercial tree species in the Kabaung Reserved Forest, Bago Mountains, Myanmar

The density and growth of two commercial tree species from shoot recruitment after selective logging were studied for 13 months in the Kabaung Reserved Forest, Myanmar. The highest density and greatest initial height growth of Tectona grandis (teak) were observed in log landing and logging road sites. These were areas with disturbed soils and increased light intensity. Despite the higher light availability in felling gaps compared with areas unaffected by logging, the density and height of recruited teak shoots at both sites were not significantly different. Among disturbance types, log landing created the highest canopy openness and caused the greatest recruitment and growth of new teak shoots. These findings suggest that the level of disturbance in felling gaps caused by current selective logging practices may be inadequate to promote satisfactory teak regeneration. Activities that increase light and control interference from competing vegetation in felling gaps may be necessary. Xylia xylocarpa did not resprout because of the damage to both stems and roots of shoots caused by the construction of logging roads and log landing sites. This resulted in a much lower post-logging recruitment than mortality of pre-existing shoots.