Comparison of terrestrial vertebrates between natural and teak plantation forest in Peninsular Malaysia: A case study in Perlis State Park and Mata Ayer Field Center, FRIM

Abstract Species compositions are influenced by the habitat types and methods used in a study. The objectives of this study are to document species diversity in teak plantation in Mata Ayer Research Station, FRIM and to compare differences in species diversity and composition between plantation and natural forest of Perlis State Park. Different types of traps and methods were used to survey four targeted groups of vertebrates (small mammal, bird, reptile and amphibian), including mist net, harp trap, collapsible trap, and active search. A total of 252 individuals were captured, representing 117 species of 53 families of vertebrates. Alpha diversity analysis shows that natural forest has higher species diversity than a teak plantation. Shannon-Weiner Index show higher result in natural forest (3.768) than teak plantation (3.439) while evenness of species distribution is higher in teak plantation (0.8419) than the natural forest (0.4755). Sorenson dissimilarity index indicates that 90.4% significant difference between sites thus; both sites have different species composition of vertebrates. Taxonomic distinctness however reflects different significant variation responses of both areas. Natural forest shows more species compared to plantation forest as it provides more food resources, suitable home and higher rate of reproduction while teak plantation shows a similar habitable environment with structural and conditions more similar to natural forest. So, both natural forest and plantation should be protected, manage and use suitable planning in order to sustain the biodiversity for future generation.