Ethnobotany of the use of Nelambo Suon (Bikkia sp.) plants based on the traditional knowledge of the Yali tribe, Papua Pegunungan Province

Abstract

The use of plants for human needs is widespread, particularly among suburban and rural communities. These communities depend heavily on forests as their main source of sustenance. This study aimed to determine how the Yali tribe in Yahukimo Regency, Papua, uses Nelambo Suon (Bikkia sp.) plant stems. A survey was conducted through field observations and interviews using questionnaires. The study took place in four villages: Sabelebi, Muhumu, Kinkun, and Ohena. These villages are located in the Heriapini District of Yahukimo Regency in the Papua Mountains. The study involved 43 respondents, including primary, key, and supplementary informants. The results showed that the Bikkia plant is widely used by the Yali tribe in the Papua Mountains. The bark can be used to treat malaria, and the trunk can be used to make seehen and suap arrows and wangkun sticks for harvesting crops. As many as 88.37% of community members acknowledged the strength of the tree trunk and its various uses. However, the community has not yet undertaken conservation efforts for this plant. Considering that Bikkia sp., found in Yahukimo, is one of several species with limited distribution worldwide, conservation efforts are necessary.