Observation on Distribution and Population Structure of Pterocarpus santalinus L.f. in Guvvalachervu Ghat Forest area of Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve of Andhra Pradesh, India
Dr.M.V.Suresh Babu
, Dr.P.Sivaramakrishna , Dr.N.Rajasekhar Reddy , Dr.A.Narayanaswamy , Dr.P.V.Krishna Reddy
Red Sanders, Endangered, Seshachalam Biosphere, Southern Eastern Ghats and Population Structure
ABSTRACT
Pterocarpus santalinus (Red Sanders), an endangered and economically vital tree endemic to the Southern Eastern Ghats of India, faces severe threats from over-exploitation and illegal trade. This study investigated its distribution and population structure in the Guvvalachervu Ghat forest area of the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve, a critical habitat for the species. Quantitative analysis of 10 plots revealed a mean density of 9.8 ± 6.61 individuals/plot, with a range of 3-22 individuals. While no significant correlation was found between P. santalinus density and total tree density, the study highlighted its preference for hill slopes and flat terrains with quartzite rock formations. The population exhibited a Shannon index of 0.9458, a Simpson index of 0.486, and an Evenness index of 0.4292. Girth class distribution showed that 49% (72 individuals) were in the 31-60 cm gbh class, with 14% (21 individuals) exceeding 60 cm gbh, and 36% in the 15-30 cm gbh category. The presence of numerous seedlings and saplings suggests P. santalinus is an early successional and shade-intolerant species, capable of re-sprouting after disturbances like annual fires. However, illegal logging, particularly of mature trees (51-70 cm gbh), significantly impacts fruit set and overall population biology. Despite its resilience, sustained demand, restricted distribution, and poor natural regeneration necessitate urgent conservation efforts. These include large-scale plantations, sustainable trade policies involving all stakeholders, and strict management of exploitation, especially in protected areas, to ensure the long-term survival of this culturally and economically significant species, which is currently categorized as Endangered by IUCN and listed in CITES Appendix II.
"Observation on Distribution and Population Structure of Pterocarpus santalinus L.f. in Guvvalachervu Ghat Forest area of Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve of Andhra Pradesh, India", IJSDR - International Journal of Scientific Development and Research (www.IJSDR.org), ISSN:2455-2631, Vol.10, Issue 8, page no.a209-a222, August-2025, Available :https://ijsdr.org/papers/IJSDR2508021.pdf
Volume 10
Issue 8,
August-2025
Pages : a209-a222
Paper Reg. ID: IJSDR_304378
Published Paper Id: IJSDR2508021
Downloads: 000296
Research Area: Biological Science
Country: YSR Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, India
ISSN: 2455-2631 | IMPACT FACTOR: 9.15 Calculated By Google Scholar | ESTD YEAR: 2016
An International Scholarly Open Access Journal, Peer-Reviewed, Refereed Journal Impact Factor 9.15 Calculate by Google Scholar and Semantic Scholar | AI-Powered Research Tool, Multidisciplinary, Monthly, Multilanguage Journal Indexing in All Major Database & Metadata, Citation Generator
Publisher: IJSDR(IJ Publication) Janvi Wave
