Forest resources of Bihar: Bio-ecological and socio-economic perspectives

Abstract

Due to its geographical origin, varied physiographic conditions, and favorable climate, Bihar is one of India's states with the most biodiversity. It is well-known because of its indigenous populations and abundant forest resources. Bihar is home to tropical moist deciduous and tropical dry deciduous forests consisting of main plant species like Shorea robusta , Anogeisuss latifolia , Terminalia tomentosa , Diospyros melanoxylon , Pterocarpus marsupium , Butea monosperma , Madhuca longifolia , etc. Timber, fuel wood, fodder, and a variety of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) such as fruits, nuts, edible fungus, vegetables, fish, animals, medicinal plants, resins, essences, and a variety of barks and fibres like bamboo, rattans, palms, and grasses are all commonly extracted forest products. Some of the serious threats endangering the current populations of significant plants include over-exploitation of useful plants, a lack of knowledge and awareness about the status of the plants' current populations. Researchers' collection of plant materials, particularly rare and endangered plant species, from natural settings for diverse experimental reasons also endangers the species' wild populations. To meet the increasing demand for these precious resources while also ensuring their long-term sustainability, efforts should be made to cultivate and multiply them on a vast scale. Research on the spatial distribution patterns, habitat utilization patterns, feeding ecology, and effects of herbivores on significant plant populations is urgently needed.