Extinct tree species found in Pelagat forest reserve

Mohd Ridza (left) and Terengganu forestry department director Muhamad Abdullah with Damar Hitam Siput Daun Besar saplings. — Bernama

JERTEH: The Damar Hitam Siput Daun Besar tree species, known by it scientific name Shorea kuantanensis, that was reported to have become extinct in 2010, was discovered at Taman Eco-Rimba Lata Tembakah in Pelagat Forest Reserve, Hulu Besut.

Peninsular Malaysia Forestry Department (JPSM) director-general Datuk Mohd Ridza Awang said three trees from the medium hardwood group were discovered in August 2014 by Mohd Nasir Mohd and Salleh Endut from the department.