list of figures - Terry Sunderland

As Peters (1996) rightly points out, however, accurately measuring the length of a
rattan stem that can climb up to 150m into the forest canopy is fraught with logistical
problems. Actual measurement of stem length is almost impossible and “rough
estimation” does not provide the accuracy required for inventory purposes (Nur
supardi et al., 1996). Shim (1989) and Lee (1993), in their studies of Calamus in Asia,
found that the internode length for most species of rattan is relatively constant. By
calculating the mean internode length and multiplying by the number of internodes on
each stem, it is possible to determine the total stem length in a manner that is
relatively accurate.
Unfortunately, the mature (and harvestable) cane length is devoid of leaves and hence
internodes, and cannot be measured in this way. However, as this represents the
proximal portion of the stem, this portion can be more accurately measured by more
conventional means such as with a tape or a calibrated stick. In applying a
combination of these two methods of stem measurement provides an extremely
accurate means of determining stem length can be achieved.
3.2.2.4 Plot shape and size
Considerable discussion has surrounded the determination of plot shape and size with
regard to forest mensuration and these have been reviewed in the rattan context by
Stockdale and Wright (1994) and Nur Supardi (1999) and the wider NTFP context,
including rattan, by Peters (1996). Stockdale and Wright (1994) conclude that
rectangular plots, oriented parallel to the direction of the slope, are more cost efficient,
and within the desired level of precision, than square plots. However, Peters (1996)
concluded that rectangular enumeration plots are prone to errors in boundary
identification and area estimation, and advocates the use of square, or circular,
research plots for NTFPs.
Beyond the fact that larger individual organisms require larger sample plots, there are,
in general few guidelines that govern the selection of an appropriate plot size for
vegetation sampling. In the case of rattans, quite large sample sizes are needed if
1 Individuals clearly of the same (albeit unidentified) species within the sample area. Only a single
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