Assessing the Role of Morticulture in biodiversity conservation in Bangladesh

Abstract Deadwood plays a critical role in the functioning of forest ecosystems and maintaining biodiversity. The deadwood in the forests of Bangladesh is almost absent due to the scarcity of fuelwood. On the other hand, biodiversity loss occurs in Bangladesh at an alarming rate. The study aimed to assess how deadwood can enrich biodiversity in Bangladesh. Based on the respondents' perceptions, it was revealed that deadwood conservation in the natural habitats can increase the abundance of chickadees, Streak-breasted Woodpecker, Fairy bluebirds, leafbirds, common kestrels, magpie robins, Bay woodpeckers, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, etc. The endangered small mammals and amphibians can be increased through morticulture. Simultaneously, the decayed deadwood adds organic matter to the forest soil which in turn promotes the natural succession of many plant species. With the support of the key informants, approaches for deadwood conservation in Bangladesh were developed.