Big-Leaf Mahogany is the most important commercial timber species of the tropics. Current debate concerning whether to protect it as an endangered species has been hampered by the lack of complete, definitive scientific documentation. This book reports on vital research on the ecology of big-leaf mahogany, including genetic variations, regeneration, natural distribution patterns and the silvicutural and trade implications for the tree.

This publication contains the papers presented at an international workshop held at Kandy, Sri Lanka in August 1996. The review describes the biology and ecology of the main Hypsipyla species and highlights areas warranting further research.