Diversity and Conservation of Exudates-Producing Plant Species in Southeast Asia

Millions of people, particularly in developing nations, depend on collecting exudates from the wild as a means of their livelihood. However, the use and production of exudates have declined in the last 100 years mainly due to the availability of superior and cheaper synthetic alternatives as well as the unsustainable tapping technique that leads to the death of the tapped plant individuals. In this contribution, we present the status of exudates-producing plant species in Southeast Asia, including the diversity, distribution, use, conservation status, protection, and ex situ conservation. The results of the present study can be used as a baseline for evolving a conservation strategy and action plant for exudates-producing plant species in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, the results can also be used to support the sustainable utilization of exudates-producing plant species in the region.