Distribution

Peninsular Malaysia (Genting Highlands, Gunung Hulu Kali, Negeri Pahang)

Habitat and Ecology

Dacrydium comosum occurs on exposed mountain ridges as a local dominant in stunted mossy forest on rocky acidic soil or shallow peat; in one area at altitudes between 1170 and 1440 metres above sea-level (the altitudinal range is incompletely known). Occasional individuals may grow in forest below the ridge and attain tree size to reach the canopy

Conservation Status

Global status

Endangered B1ab(ii,iii,iv,v)+2ab(ii,iii,iv,v)

Global rationale

Extensive surveys of the flora of peninsular Malaysia have resulted in the discovery of only five locations of this species. Four of these are situated within areas that have been highly developed for tourism. This highly increases the risk of disasters like fire even if the actual rocky localities themselves were not subject to further development.

Global threats

Dacrydium comosum is known from two separate areas and in total from less than five localities within these areas. Corner (1939) mentioned four trees from the type locality, but the numbers at other localities are not known. There is a risk of fire from burning and clearing forest at lower elevations threatening these small populations. Seed production seems to be low and seedlings are sparse.

Conservation Actions

Populations occurring on the Gunung Tahan Massif are protected within a national park.