Saninten (Castanopsis argantea) is a tree species with high economic and ecological value; however, its population is declining and is classified as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List. This study aims to identify the population and habitat characteristics of Saninten in the Gunung Tilu Forest Area, Kuningan Regency. The research method used was vegetation analysis with the Gentry Forest Transect technique on two observation paths. The results showed that 25 Saninten trees and 1 sapling were found at an altitude of 606–1069 meters above sea level. Environmental factors affecting Saninten growth include temperature (20–28°C), humidity (62–81%), neutral soil pH (6.5–7), and light intensity ranging from 740 to 1947 lux. The surrounding vegetation exhibits high diversity, with 30 species at the seedling level, 33 species at the sapling level, 27 species at the pole level, and 26 species at the tree level. Saninten regeneration is very limited, likely due to disrupted natural regeneration processes, seed consumption by wildlife, and human utilization. The findings of this study provide a basis for conservation strategies for Saninten, both in situ and ex situ, and encourage habitat rehabilitation efforts to ensure the species' sustainability.
Keywords: Castanopsis argantea, population, habitat, conservation, Gunung Tilu