Randrianjafy (1999) says that Eucalyptus plantations totalled about 146 700 ha in 1994, and accounted for 46.5 percent of the plantations. Thus, the total plantation area as of that year is estimated to be approximately 315 900 ha. Levasseur (1996) gives the area of plantations established during 1987-1990 at 22 587 ha. Given the average planting rate during these years of 5 600 ha per year, and applying this to the estimated area in 1994, the total area as of 2000 is estimated to be 349 500 ha.

Regarding species composition, Randrianjafy (1999) reports that Eucalyptus spp. are mainly used, accounting for 46.5 percent of the area. Data are not available for other species. However, Ramamonjisoa (1999) gives species names. In addition, Pandey (1997) estimates species composition and this is assumed to remain valid up to 2000 except for Eucalyptus spp.

Ownership and purpose are not mentioned in detail, except for Eucalyptus spp. Randrianjafy (1999) gives data about Eucalyptus spp. Purpose is estimated using production data. An estimate about purpose by Pandey (1997) is assumed to be valid to 2000. Industrial plantations account for 47.8 percent of the area.

Regarding non-forest species, APCC (1997) reports coconut plantation area by year between 1993 and 1997. During that period the total remained the same and this area, 33 000 ha, is assumed to remain constant to 2000.

References