Study method

We searched using internet-based search engines, databases on scientific literature (e.g. science direct, scopus, ISI) and leading ecology and conservation journals with keywords, including “sacred grove biodiversity”, “ecology of sacred grove”, “sacred grove India”. We restricted ourselves to quantitative studies and documented observations on grove biodiversity and ecology. As the ecology and biodiversity of sacred groves are regional and ecosystem specific we also retrieved local information where possible. We also considered a few qualitative and inventory studies because of the subject or region they covered.

We shortlisted 75 studies based on their scientific merit, subject and availability. Studies were arranged according to area of work, year, problems/issues addressed and major findings. Details of our findings are followed below.