In each of the three areas, studied sites were mature (15-
25 yrs old) rubber plantations (RP) and mixed forests (MF) that
were in close proximity (less than 1 km). The RP possess well
developed canopy covers and horizontal distribution of roots in the
topsoil. The plantation floor remained covered with Hevea leaf litter.
At least fifty plant species were distributed scatteredly in the mixed
forests.