Common (Translated Scientific) Name: Micronesian Lowland Rainforest Group

Colloquial Name: Micronesian Lowland Rainforest

Hierarchy Level:  Group

Type Concept: These forests historically dominated coastal plains and volcanic slopes up to about 300 m elevation. Mature forests had large buttressed trees and dense canopies; and sparse undergrowth. Ferns were abundant (including as epiphytes). Composition varied considerably, and still varies today, but genera include Parinari (= Atuna), Maranthes, Campnosperma, Cynometra, Dysoxlum, Semecarpus, Ficus, Calophyllum, Clinostigma, Ptychosperma, Elaeocarpus, Aidia, Fagraea, Eugenia, Syzygium, Pitosporum, and Horsfieldia. Campnosperma brevipetiolata appears to be a key canopy species across the Caroline Islands. The upland forests of Palau are the most species diverse in Micronesia and contain several endemic species. There are six native palm species, generally found in the understory or middle canopy layers of the forest. Campnosperma brevipetiolata is one of most common canopy trees in the upland forest. It is generally found at lower elevations (less than 150 m) on flat or gently sloping sites, and in riparian areas. Other major species include Parinari corymbosa, Alphitonia carolinensis, Rhus taitensis, Elaeocarpus carolinensis, Serianthes kanehirae, Semecarpus venenosus, Calophyllum inophyllum, Gmelina palawensis, and Pterocarpus indicus. Common understory species include Pandanus aimiriikensis, Ixora casei, Eugenia cuminii, Osmoxylon oliveri, Manilkara udoido, Symplocos racemosa, and Cyathea lunulata. Atoll forests are found toward the interior of the larger, wetter uninhabited atolls and along coasts of the high islands. They are generally located behind the strand zone, but may be mixed with strand vegetation.

Diagnostic Characteristics: No Data Available

Rationale for Nominal Species or Physiognomic Features: No Data Available

Classification Comments: No Data Available

Similar NVC Types: No Data Available

note: No Data Available