Floristic studies on some rare plants in Western Ghats of Nasik District, M. S.

Abstract

The present study deals with taxonomical aspects along with the observation regarding threats, flowering and fruiting period, precise locations of some rare plants of Western Ghats in Nasik District of Maharashtra. Extensive field visits and botanical excursions were conducted during period of investigation i. e. from 2013-2019 in and around the forest area of Nashik district. The major areas that were explored during study are mainly forest pockets and hills regions of Trimbakeshwar, Brahmhagiri mountains, Anjaneri hills, Adwadi hills, Sinnar and environs hilly ranges, Kelzar hilly areas, Mulher, Salher, etc. During the study: more than 150 species of rare plants belonging to 46 families were recorded. The probable reasons that were observe from the decrease of rare plant species population are destruction of natural habitats due to increasing illegal acquiring of forest land, massive deforestation and rapid urbanization. Also, ex-situ conservation of some plant species within the college botanical garden was attempted. However: the present study highlights an effective and purposeful conservation strategy to be adopted for the sustainable use and conservation of important rare plants in the region.