Studies on hydro-edaphic properties of the natural habitat of Rhododendron arboreum Smith ssp. nilagiricum (Zenker) Tagg. in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Tamil Nadu.

摘要

The present investigation deals with the study of dominant habitats of Rhododendron arboreum ssp. nilagiricum which is an endemic and a key species in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The edaphic conditions of each habitat under investigation are quite conducive to proper growth and development of the species and ecologically balanced at present. It is further elucidated that Mukurty reserve forest has been the ideal habitat where this taxon shows its optimum growth and development. The habitat is characterised by montane climate and free flowing water sources along with clay-loam soil texture. The soils are slightly to moderately acidic in reaction (pH 4.6-5.5); quite rich in energy materials (carbon 2.95%-4.65%); available nitrogen (0.086%-0.386%); phosphorus (0.002%-0.006%) and excellent in water holding capacity (76.2%0-116.4%); porosity (43.5%-59.6%) and cation exchange capacity (15.8 m.e.%-32.4 m.e.%). Waters are alkaline in reaction but completely free of alkali hazards. The chemistry of soils and water appears to be complementary to each other..