Phytosociological Status of a Monotypic Genus Indopiptadenia: A Near Threatened Tree from the Terai-Bhabar Region of Central Himalaya

Abstract

A phytosociological assessment was done in Terai-Bhabar region of the central Himalaya to understand the current status of a monotypic genus Indopiptadenia. Identification of different forest communities within the region was also accomplished. Cluster analysis and PCA revealed five forest communities (i.e., sal miscellaneous forest, sal dominant forest, lowland miscellaneous forest, teak plantation and Indopiptadenia population) on the basis of their species composition. Out of these 5 communities, Indopiptadenia population attracted more attention due to its small and declining population. The unique habitat of this small population found chiefly on gravely-sandy soil along the water streams edges places it before the natural threats of floods and cutting of river banks. The lowest tree density (440.00 stem haG1) and basal cover (19.35 m2 haG1) values were exhibited by this plant community. This suggests that the population of Indopiptadenia is more exposed forest community in comparison to others and faces higher degree of anthropogenic pressures for their fodder and timber values.