KERANGAS FOREST

Also known as tropical heath forest, is one of the distinctive forest ecosystems found in Brunei Darussalam. It generally occurs on sandy, acidic and nutrient-poor soils, particularly podzolic soils. These challenging soil conditions have resulted in a unique forest environment with vegetation that is specially adapted to survive with limited nutrients.

Characteristics

Kerangas Forest is generally characterised by:

1. Sandy and acidic soils with low nutrient availability;
2. Relatively short and slender trees compared to those found in more fertile lowland forests;
3. A lower and more open canopy in some areas;
4. Plants adapted to nutrient-poor soil conditions; and
5. A distinctive composition of plant species, including species with limited distributions.

The trees and other vegetation within Kerangas Forest have developed various adaptations to the harsh soil conditions. These may include relatively small, thick or leathery leaves and slower growth rates, allowing plants to conserve nutrients and survive in an environment where essential nutrients are limited.

Biodiversity and Importance

Despite its nutrient-poor soils, Kerangas Forest supports a distinctive range of flora and fauna. Some plant communities found within these forests are uncommon and have important conservation value.

Kerangas Forest is therefore important for:

1. Biodiversity conservation in supporting specialised plant and animal communities;
2. Habitat protection on providing habitat for a range of forest-dependent species;
3. Genetic resources for conserving unique plant diversity and genetic resources; and
4. Ecosystem conservation and contributing to the overall diversity and ecological resilience of Brunei’s forest ecosystems.

Kerangas Forest in Brunei Darussalam

Kerangas Forest occurs in several areas of Brunei where suitable soil and environmental conditions are present. Notable areas associated with Kerangas Forest include Berakas Forest Reserve and Tutong White Sands.

Berakas Forest Reserve contains significant areas of Kerangas Forest and has also been subject to forest rehabilitation efforts following previous forest fires.

The Tutong White Sands area is also recognised for its distinctive Kerangas vegetation and plant diversity, including species of conservation significance.

Threats and Conservation

Kerangas Forest is a sensitive ecosystem and can be particularly vulnerable to disturbance. Forest fire is one of the major threats, as dry and sandy conditions can facilitate the spread of fire. Recovery following severe fires may also take a considerable period of time.

Other potential threats include: 

• Habitat disturbance and land-use changes;
• Forest fragmentation;
• Uncontrolled or repeated burning; and
• The establishment of invasive plant species in disturbed areas.

The Forestry Department continues to support the protection, management, monitoring and rehabilitation of forest ecosystems in Brunei Darussalam. The conservation of Kerangas Forest is important in maintaining the country’s unique biodiversity and ensuring that these specialised forest ecosystems remain protected for future generations.

Kerangas Forest is a unique part of Brunei Darussalam’s natural heritage, supporting specialised biodiversity adapted to some of the country’s most nutrient-poor forest soils.