Kalimantan mango (Mangifera casturi) Case Study

GEF Grant 242535995
Plant

Continent: Asia

Country: Indonesia

Grant Amount: $10,000

Awarded Date: January 21, 2025

Range Harnata Palodang

The Ethnobiological Society of Indonesia


Ahmad Yani St., No. 251

East Barito

Central Kalimantan

73661

Indonesia

Tel: 6285345393220

Mob: 6285345393220

Propagation and Reintroduction of Mangifera casturi Kosterm. in South Kalimantan (Indonesia).

This project has made a meaningful contribution to the conservation of Mangifera casturi, an endemic fruit tree from South Kalimantan currently classified as Extinct in the Wild. By integrating ex-situ propagation, phased reintroduction, post-planting monitoring, and conservation education, the project addressed both ecological recovery and long-term capacity building.

By the end of July 2025, 350 healthy seedlings were successfully produced, confirming the feasibility of propagating Mangifera casturi under managed conditions. Despite prolonged dry-season conditions and delayed rainfall, 64 seedlings were carefully reintroduced into suitable natural habitats in September 2025. To reduce risk and maximize survival, the remaining seedlings are being maintained in the nursery and will be planted gradually using an adaptive management approach.

Post-planting monitoring conducted one month after reintroduction included weed control, measurement of plant height and stem diameter, and assessment of overall plant condition. Results showed a 100% survival rate, with all planted seedlings exhibiting healthy and vigorous growth. Regular monitoring will continue every three months to support long-term establishment and evaluate reintroduction success.

The project also emphasized conservation awareness among young generations. Educational activities were conducted offline with Biology students at Lambung Mangkurat University, South Kalimantan, and online through a national seminar hosted by Padjadjaran University, West Java, increasing awareness of the conservation status and recovery challenges of Mangifera casturi.

Overall, support from the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund enabled timely, science-based, and adaptive conservation actions. The project has strengthened the foundation for restoring Mangifera casturi to its natural habitat while building awareness, local capacity, and practical knowledge essential for its long-term recovery.

Grant documents

This grant is funded as part of our Fonseca Leadership Program which was established by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). This fund supports young conservationists from developing countries.

GEF Grant 242535995 - located in Indonesia, Asia