Propagation and community perspective of the climber species Smilax nageliana A.DC. endemic to Java Island

A conservation approach for Smilax nageliana A.DC. was implemented by integrating ex-situ propagation, habitat suitability modeling, and SWOT analysis. The propagation of S. nageliana has proven successful in rescuing and preserving this threatened species, resulting in 0.55 shoots per cutting, with an average shoot length of 3.51 cm and 1.05 leaves per shoot. Approximately 66.7% of the forest-adjacent community engages in field cultivation activities, resulting in minimal disturbance to S. nageliana habitats. Conservation strategy development for S. nageliana employed Partial Least Squares (PLS) analysis, which identified slope as a significant factor influencing habitat suitability, which influences the growth of S. nageliana, particularly stem diameter. SWOT analysis revealed that S. nageliana’s strengths include its status as an East Java endemic species, coupled with limited knowledge about this plant. The primary weakness of S. nageliana is its critically endangered status on the IUCN Red List. External factors presenting opportunities for S. nageliana conservation include community interest in utilizing the plant as livestock feed and support for exploring its medicinal potential. The main external threat is the prevalence of farming and forest product harvesting among survey respondents. A recommended conservation strategy model for S. nageliana involves all stakeholders’ increasing knowledge and sustainable plant utilization.