15 April 2014, IISD news - Noting that forest genetic diversity can  be lost after just one logging event, Bioversity International and the  Forest Research Institute of Malaysia have published a case study reviewing what  is known about the impacts of logging on genetic diversity in Asian tropical  forests. To accompany this research, they have also issued a factsheet to help  policymakers and forest managers raise awareness of and conserve forest  biodiversity.

The research article, titled 'Integrating genetic factors into  management of tropical Asian production forest: A review of current knowledge,'  focuses on the impacts of logging practices, such as logging intensity,  minimum diameter cutting limits and spatial patterns of  tree removal on mixed dipterocarp forests. The research shows that  even single logging events can lead to a decrease in biodiversity through  increased inbreeding, reduced viability of seedlings and other impacts. It notes  that conservation practices, including minimum population densities as a  precondition for logging or documentation of sources of  propagation material, not only prevent biodiversity loss, but can also  enhance the conservation value of tropical forests as well as landscape  connectivity.

The factsheet, titled 'Sustaining tropical timber trees in production  forests of Asia - Ensuring their genetic viability,' summarizes research and  provides policy recommendations for, inter alia, the development of  harvesting guidelines for species or species groups; the establishment of  minimum population densities and maximum diameter cutting limits; training for  forest botanists; and systematic documentation. Recommendations for forest  managers include: avoiding systematic removal of trees above maximum cutting  diameters; random removal of species growing in clumps to avoid inbreeding; and  monitoring seedlings and saplings.

Source: http://forests-l.iisd.org/news/bioversity-issues-factsheet-on-genetic-diversity-conservation-in-asian-tropical-forests/