INVENTARISASI, DISTRIBUSI, DAN POLA PENYEBARAN Rhododendron EPIFIT DI KEBUN RAYA EKA KARYA BALI

Epiphytic Rhododendrons is an important component in an ecosystem, but there is not much information and studies related to its ecology. This research aims to inventory and study the distribution and distribution patterns of Rhododendron populations that grow naturally in Eka Karya Botanic Gardens Bali (KREK). Random sampling method was employed to census the host trees especially old ones (more than 20 years) that overgrown with Rhododendrons. The results showed that there is one species of epiphytic Rhododendron identified in the KREK, namely Rhododendron javanicum. It is found typically in thin substrate thickness with moderate light intensity, mostly in zone III and IV. There were five host species, namely Bischofia javanica Blume, Dacrycarpus imbricatus (Blume) de Laub., Glochidion rubrum Blume, Prunus sp., and Syzygium polyanthum (Wight) Walp. with a total number of 31 trees. The results of this study would provide considerations for KREK managers to conserve, develop and utilize policies of epiphytic Rhododendron species.