DIVERSITY, POPULATION STRUCTURE AND REGENERATION POTENTIAL OF TREE SPECIES IN A COMMUNITY CONSERVED SACRED FOREST FROM WESTERN ODISHA, INDIA

摘要

Analysis of tree diversity, dominance, population structure and regeneration potential of tree species in a community conserved sacred forest from Western Odisha, India has been reported in this present paper. A total of 58 tree species of 50 genera and 31 families were recorded from the site. Shorea robusta emerged as the dominant tree species followed by sub dominant species like Cleistanthus collinus and Anogeissus latifolia. The tree stem density was found to be relatively higher than the nearbynatural forest due to better management strategy and restriction of tree felling and overexploitation. This sacred forest site supports a rich biodiversity and act as a refuge for several RET (Rare, Endangered and Threatened) species. A reverse J shapedpopulation curve with lagers stem density in lower girth class observed for the site showed a good regeneration potential with a stable nature of the forest stand. Besides this the sacred forest conserved through religious faith and beliefs posses a highcultural significance in the area. Hence the community based people participatory conservation measures should be encouraged for further effective conservational measures.