Dissertation Research: Dipterocarp Seedling Growth and Understory Light Availability

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This proposal by Dr. Fakhri Bazzaz of Harvard University presents an interesting approach to comparative studies of seedling growth in a large number of Dipterocarp species from Malaysia. In the past, seedling growth studies in tropical forests have largely focused on single or small numbers of species. As a result, it has been difficult to generalize from their results. However, as our knowledge of the ecological relationships of tropical forest trees increases, we badly need more comparative studies which can allow broader ecological principles to be delineated. In a sense, this study is a more physiological approach to the type of demographic studies being carried out by other researchers in Panama and Sarawak. It is most timely given the increasing concern about decreasing biodiversity in tropical forests and the general alarm about the rappid disappearence of many tropical forests. Dr. Bazzaz is a world renowned plant ecologist with many recognitions and honors for his outstanding work. Harvard University is preeminently suited to support this kind of work. The Program recommends funding.