Background: This study investigates the occurrence and distribution of six threatened tree species within the Coastal Grama Panchayath of Sree Narayana Puram, spanning an area of 19.4 km². The study underscores the ecological importance of these species, particularly in sacred groves, as well as the threats posed by urbanization, tree removal, and climate change-induced degradation.
Methods: A systematic sampling method was employed for the study. The study area is divided into 42 subunits corresponding to the 21 administrative units, the wards. Surveys were conducted covering 1 km at a time and the completed surveys were in every 21 wards. Data was collected using Google Forms with GPS geotagging in a collaborative effort involving local community members, ward members, the Biodiversity Management Committee, and environmentalists.
Results: Among these species, the White Dammar tree (Vateria indica) exhibited a notable frequency of 52.3%, with a density of 1.72 trees per km. Other threatened species, including Saraca asoca and Hydnocarpus pentandrus, demonstrated densities of 0.50 and 0.45 trees per km, respectively, each showing approximately 25% frequency. Syzygium caryophyllatum had a frequency of 21.4% with a density of 0.5 trees per km. The findings highlight the clustered distribution of Hopea ponga and Aporosa cardiosperma, which, despite their lower density, indicate significant local abundance. The coastal region, excluding saline intrusion areas, is deemed suitable for the preservation of these threatened species.
Conclusion: To enhance conservation efforts, the study advocates for the integration of these findings into the Local Level Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (LBSAP), alongside initiatives aimed at safeguarding the identified species and their habitats.
western ghats, kerala, diversity, red list, coastal
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