Population Assessment of Economically Valuable Threatened Timber Species Distributed in Chhattisgarh Forest Divisions, India

Abstract

Aims: The present study deals to document the distribution of economically important threatened tree species in the different forest divisions of Chhattisgarh state. This research intends to provide researchers with the necessary information to locate these species for initiation of conservation programs within the region. Study Design: The systematic random sampling method was used for tree sampling. Place and Duration of Study: Forest divisions selected for documentation of tree species spread across over Raigarh, Jashpur, Dharamjaigarh, Korba, Bilaspur, Gourela-Pendra-Marwahi, Kawardha, Mahasamund, Gariyaband, Kanker, Dhamtari, Kondagaon, West Bhanupratapur, Jagdalpur, Sukma and Dantewara divisions.The survey was conducted for two years from 2021 to 2023. Methodology: To identify regions with greater species richness, sample plots were laid out in the forest division. A total of 12.8 hectares were covered by 320 sample plots (20 m × 20 m) spaced 100 m apart. Tree height and girth at breast height were measured with a Range Finder and Measuring Tape. Coordinates of each plot were recorded with a Garmin GPS. Relative density was calculated (Number of individuals of a species / Total number of individuals of all species) x 100. Distribution maps of targeted species were prepared using ArcGis 10.8 sofware. Results: Survey of 16 Forest Divisions in Chhattisgarh revealed 24 threatened tree species. Buchanania lanzan and Shorea robusta were the most widespread found in all divisions. Gariyaband division exhibited the highest number of threatened species (16), whereas Kondagaon and West Bhanupratappur had the least (7). Conclusion: This study identifies the distribution of threatened tree species across Chhattisgarh Forest Divisions. The information has assumed significance in the wake of conservation, planning and the development of species distribution models. The resulting data, including distribution maps of targeted species, will enable conservationists to locate areas for preservation efforts.