The Conservation, Management and Ethnobotany of Sago (Metroxylon vitiense) in Southeastern Viti Levu, Fiji
Metroxylon vitiense is an endemic palm currently listed as Vulnerable by IUCN. Once widespread throughout the main island of Viti Levu, Fiji, it is now restricted to the southeastern corner of the island. The aims of this study were to determine the current distribution of M. vitiense, determine harvesting impacts on population structure, conduct ethnobotanical studies on the local use of M. vitiense and develop a conservation management plan for the sustainable use of M. vitiense. Field surveys were used to determine the current distribution of M. vitiense within its original range. Four populations were selected for the harvest impacts study. Areas with different harvest intensities (high or low) were identified within each population. Fourteen subplots were placed in each population (7 each in high and low intensity areas). The height of all palms found were measured and each plant was classified into one of three categories; seedling, juvenile or adult. A detailed questionnaire was used with the resource owners of each population to determine the extent of local use of M. vitiense. Average plant size was significantly smaller in high harvest areas mainly due to larger numbers of seedlings and juveniles. The density of palms (/10m2) was higher in low harvest areas than in high harvest areas. Seedlings were the most abundant age class in all sub-plots (54-86%), followed by juveniles (8-30%) and adults (1-25%). Questionnaires revealed that most M. vitiense was harvested for roof thatching and palm heart consumption. The current harvest rates of M. vitiense are unsustainable as there is no replanting. In addition, the harvesting of leaves opens up canopy gaps which facilitate the introduction of weeds such as Mikania macrantha, Annona glabra and Merremia peltata. Based on our results we suggest that M. vitiense be reclassified as Endangered under IUCN.