Diversity of Epiphytic Lichens and Evaluation of Important Host Species Exploited by Them in Tropical Semi-Evergreen and Deciduous Forests of Koppa, Central Western Ghats, India

摘要

This paper deals with epiphytic lichen flora in semi-evergreen and deciduous forests of Koppa taluk, central Western Ghats. A total of 36 lichen species belonging to 15 genera and 9 families were documented. The Shannon-Winner diversity value was 3.34and Simpson's richness value was 0.031. Deciduous forests have more lichens (27 spp.) than semi-evergreen forests. More epiphytic lichens grow on the main trunk (25 spp.) than branches and fallen twigs. Twenty four different host trees were recorded from the study area. Trees < 25 cm GBH (girth at breast height) sustained the growth of more lichens (33) than the other girth classes. Randia dumetomm, which has moderate bark texture, supported Graphina sp., Graphis celata, Heterdermia incana, H. pseudospeciosa, Lecanora indica, Porina americana, and Leptogium burnetiae. The assemblage of distinct species at different sites indicates restrictive species distribution and signifies the need for protecting large areas for lichen conservation.