ID: 66625
Title: Potential biocontrol agents of Patialus tecomella (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a defoliator of Tecomella undulata in Rajasthan, India
Author: Shiwani Bhatnagar,Ameen Ullah Khan,Mamta Sankhla, Raj Kumar Suman
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (12) Dec. 25 Pg No. 1168-1173 (2025)
Subject: Potential biocontrol agents of Patialus tecomella (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a defoliator of Tecomella undulata in Rajasthan, India
Keywords: Tecomella undulata, Patialus tecomella, Biocontrol agents, Billaea atkinsoni, Andrallus spinidens
Abstract: Tecomella undulata is a key species in the Thar Desert (Rajasthan) and often locally known as Rohida. The plant is currently listed as threatened. Patialus tecomella, an ootheca-laying weevil, has been known to heavily infest nursery plants and tree stands of T. undulata and causes moderate to heavy defoliation. P. tecomella larvae feed voraciously on leaves and severely skeletonize them. Adults make irregular holes while feeding on green leaves by cutting the leaves from the margin in uneven patterns. P. tecomella has been known to cause severe infestations between September and October. The larvae feeds on leaf and later move into the soil to pupate. Adult stage hibernates in winter during December to February. The insect goes through 5–6 overlapping generations in a year. Two natural enemies, Billaea atkinsoni (a pupal parasitoid) and Andrallus spinidens (a predator), have been found to act as biocontrol agents in natural settings and can be used in an eco-friendly pest management strategy to control Marwar teak defoliator.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ahmed S.I., Gaur M. and Gupta R.K. (1999). Morphometrical studies of larvae of rohida defoliator, Patialus tecomella Pajni, Kumar and Rose (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), Van Vigyan, 36: 74–77.
Chopra N.P. and Sucheta K. (1986). Taxonomic studies on the genus Andrallus Bergroth (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae: Asopinae), Bull. Entomol., 27: 37–40.
Literature cited 2: Choudhary G.P. (2011). Immunomodulatory activity of alcoholic extract of Tecoma undulata Linn in mice, Asian J Pharm Biol Res, 1: 67–70
Gaur M. and Ahmed S.I. (1996). Incidence of Patialus tecomella Pajni (Coleoptera: Cuculionidae) on Tecomella undulata in Rajasthan India, Bulletin of Pure and Applied Sciences, 15(1): 51-53.
ID: 66624
Title: The Hidden Harmony: From Ashes to Abundance – Ecological Significance of Forest Fires
Author: Taranisen Panda,Satikanta Sahoo,Rajballav Mohanty
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (12) Dec. 25 Pg No. 1160-1167 (2025)
Subject: The Hidden Harmony: From Ashes to Abundance – Ecological Significance of Forest Fires
Keywords: Fire ecology, Forest fire management, Biodiversity resilience, Controlled burning, Pyrodiversity
Abstract: The present review explores the ecological significance of forest fires, challenging the widespread perception of fire as solely destructive. It focuses on the ecological, evolutionary, and socio-cultural dimensions of fire for sustainable forest management. A literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed journal articles from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, emphasizing studies on wildfire impacts, fire-adapted plant traits, ecological benefits, interactions with climate and biodiversity, and contemporary fire management strategies. The review highlights that forest fires—particularly low-intensity and controlled burns—play critical roles in nutrient cycling, seed germination, pest control, soil enrichment, and habitat diversification. Fire-adapted species exhibit traits such as serotiny, thick bark, and resprouting ability, indicating the long-standing influence of fire on plant evolution. Traditional fire management practices, such as India's Podu Chasa and Aboriginal “cool burning,” exemplify sustainable fire use. Geospatial technologies are now essential tools for wildfire monitoring. Recognizing fire's dual nature is vital for adaptive, ecological, and culturally inclusive forest management policies.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bargali H., Bhatt D. and Sundriyal R.C. (2023). Effect of forest fire on tree diversity and regeneration in the forest of Uttarakhand, Western Himalaya, India. Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 6: 1198143.
Bond W.J. and Keeley J.E. (2005). Fire as a global 'herbivore': The ecology and evolution of flammable ecosystems. Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 20(7): 387–394.
Literature cited 2: Bargali H., Bhatt D. and Sundriyal R.C. (2023). Effect of forest fire on tree diversity and regeneration in the forest of Uttarakhand, Western Himalaya, India. Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 6: 1198143.
Bond W.J. and Keeley J.E. (2005). Fire as a global 'herbivore': The ecology and evolution of flammable ecosystems. Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 20(7): 387–394.
ID: 66623
Title: Evaluation of Vulnerability of Agricultural Crops to Climate Change in Rainfed Districts of Haryana, India
Author: Hement Kumar, Manoj Kumar, Smita Chaudhry
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (12) Dec. 25 Pg No. 1153-1159 (2025)
Subject: Evaluation of Vulnerability of Agricultural Crops to Climate Change in Rainfed Districts of Haryana, India
Keywords: Climate Change, Cropland, NPP, Vulnerability, Rainfed Agriculture, Food Security, Adaptability
Abstract: Agriculture is particularly sensitive to potential of climate change, including an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events. The productivity of agriculture crops can be distressed by changes in both of water and soil regimes brought about by variations in rainfall and temperature.
To evaluate the impacts, it is necessary to evaluate vulnerability and the adaptive capacity of the lands affected by climate change. This study examined changes in agricultural crops sensitivity and vulnerability to climate change using Net Primary Productivity (NPP). The vulnerability of agricultural land was assessed by analysing the sensitivity and adaptation patterns of NPP. In this context, sensitivity refers to how much a system reacts to shifts in climate conditions, and adaptability signifies the system's ability to sustain, recover, or improve its core characteristics when encountering climate-related obstacles. The findings revealed that the major areas were covered by low to moderate sensitivity and vulnerability. The study revealed a positive relationship of NPP with both precipitation and the number of rainy days. The findings have been consolidated to assess the vulnerability at the administrative boundary level of governance, specifically the districts. To evaluate vulnerability at the district level, the average vulnerability value of all cropland pixels in the district was computed. We conclude that one unified indicator that captures agricultural vulnerability may not be adequate to direct resilience to climate change. We stress the importance of conducting more research on the measurement and visualization of agricultural vulnerability as well as the communication of limitations in data and methodology.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Abrol I.P., Singh S.R., Lohan H.S. and Singh D.P. (2012). Working Group Report On Natural Resource Management in Haryana. Haryana Kisan Ayog.
Al-Bakri J., Suleiman A., Abdulla F. and Ayad J. (2011). Potential impact of climate change on rainfed agriculture of a semi-arid basin in Jordan. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C, 36(5–6): 125–134.
Literature cited 2: Arunanondchai P., Fei C., Fisher A., McCarl B.A., Wang W. and Yang Y. (2018). How does climate change affect agriculture? In The Routledge handbook of agricultural economics (pp. 191–210). Routledge.
Coulson D. and Joyce L. (2006). Indexing variability: a case study with climate change impacts on ecosystems. Ecological Indicators, 6(4): 749–769.
ID: 66622
Title: Utricularia gibba (Lentibulariaceae): Ecological indicator carnivorous plant of Ansupa & Loktak Lake of India
Author: Lalit Mohan Sahu, Arti Sharma, Sweta Mishra, Sanjeet Kumar
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (12) Dec. 25 Pg No. 1147-1152 (2025)
Subject: Utricularia gibba (Lentibulariaceae): Ecological indicator carnivorous plant of Ansupa & Loktak Lake of India
Keywords: Asnsupa Lake, Ecological indicators, Loktak Lake, Utricularia gibba.
Abstract: Utricularia gibba L., a carnivorous plant from the family Lentibulariaceae, usually grows in fresh water with a low pH. In India, the two freshwater lakes, Ansupa Lake and Loktak Lake, are well-known as the largest freshwater lakes in Odisha and North-East India, respectively. These two freshwater lakes are the hub of carnivorous plant species, and U. gibba is the most frequently available bladderwort in both lakes. In our present studies, authors have focused on vegetative morphology, ecology, ecosystem, association with other groups of organisms, biotic factors, and abiotic factors of this species as an indicator of the ecology of the above-mentioned freshwater lakes. Today, ecological indicators are used in many countries for assessments of our environmental conditions and biodiversity performance to mitigate their negative impacts. Therefore, present study simply hypothesized the criteria for selection and the future aspects of this bladderwort.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adamec L. (2006). Respiration and photosynthesis of bladder and leaves of aquatic Utricularia species. Plant Biology, 8(6): 765-769.
Adamec L. (2007). Oxygen concentration inside the traps of carnivorous plants Utricularia and Genlisea (Lentibulariaceae). Annals of Botany, 100: 849-856.
Literature cited 2: Adekola O. and Fanen T. (2015). Integrating ecosystem services approaching achieving development goals: the role of Geographer. Journal of Environment and Earth Science, 5(4): 92-100.
Augustynowick J., Lukowick K., Tokarz K. and Plachno B.J. (2015). Potential for chromium (VI) Bioremediation by the aquatic carnivorous plants. Utricularia gibba L. (Lentibulariaceae). Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 22: 9742-9748.
ID: 66621
Title: Influence of pH of Seed Soaking Water and Cow Dung–Urine Mixtures on Seed Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album L.)
Author: Sandeep Chakraborty ,B.S. Chandrashekar, L. Manjunatha, C.M. Arunkumar, N. Ravi, Ayushman Malakar, Animesh Sinha
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (12) Dec. 25 Pg No. 1140-1146 (2025)
Subject: Influence of pH of Seed Soaking Water and Cow Dung–Urine Mixtures on Seed Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album L.)
Keywords: Sandalwood, Seedling, pH, Cow dung, Cow urine, Germination, Santalum album
Abstract: Two parallel experiments were conducted at the Institute of Wood Science and Technology, Bengaluru, India, to evaluate the effects of different pretreatments on sandalwood (Santalum album) seed germination and seedling growth in neutral media. The first experiment assessed the impact of varying pH levels, while the second focused on conventional treatments using cow dung and cow urine in different concentrations. Among all treatments, the application of GA3 (Gibberellic Acid) at 500 ppm (99% purity) demonstrated the highest germination percentage (78–80%) considered as the standard. In the pH-based experiment, treatment T4 (pH 4.32) showed notable germination (62%), Mean Daily Germination (0.81), Peak Value of Germination (0.40), and Seedling Vigour Index (682.6). Acidic conditions (pH 3.64–5.67) were more favourable for germination, while alkaline conditions (pH 7.05–9.59) negatively impacted germination, likely due to ion imbalance and metabolic disruption. However, in large prospective the subsequent vegetative growth data in neutral media (root +shoot length) obtained after bio-waste experiment (using Cow Dung & Cow Urine) was similar to pH experiment (except category 1). In the conventional experiment (cow dung and cow urine), the CT4 (30:70 :: Cow Dung: Cow Urine) and BT4 (30:70::Cow Dung: Water) treatments yielded the highest germination (36%) after GA3. The treatment CT4 also showed a high Seedling Vigour Index (392). Treatments with high concentration of cow urine indicated poor germination, potentially due to elevated pH and presence of abscisic acid. On the basis of this study, it can be stated that using hard or saline water (strong alkaline) as a soaking macedium before sowing may not be an economically viable pretreatment option for sandalwood seeds.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Abdul Baki A.A. and Anderson J.D. (1973). Vigor determination in soybean by multiple criteria. Crop Science, 13: 630–633.
Amalraj E.L.D., Praveen Kumar G., Mir Hassan Ahmed S.K., Abdul R. and Kishore N. (2013). Microbiological analysis of panchagavya, vermicompost and FYM and their effect on plant growth promotion of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L.). Organic Agriculture, 3: 23–29.
Literature cited 2: Anon. (1996). International rules for seed testing. Seed Science and Technology (Supplement), 24: 1–335.
Awad M.A., Abohassan R.A., Sarkar M.D. and Ibrahim O.H. (2025). Germination enhancement and phytohormonal dynamics in sandalwood seeds. HortScience, 60(6): 906–909.
ID: 66620
Title: Growth, Biomass and Rooting Behaviour of Selected Fast Growing Tree Species in Irrigated Agroecosystem
Author: S. K. Chauhan, Rajni Sharma,H.S. Saralch, Varun Attri
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (12) Dec. 25 Pg No. 1132-1139 (2025)
Subject: Growth, Biomass and Rooting Behaviour of Selected Fast Growing Tree Species in Irrigated Agroecosystem
Keywords: Short rotation species, Growth dynamics, Biomass, Rooting behaviour, Canopy, Agroecosystem
Abstract: Understanding the growth dynamics and root architecture of fast growing tree species is essential for optimizing agroforestry systems, particularly in irrigated environments. This study evaluated the above and below ground growth characteristics, biomass accumulation, and rooting patterns of fifteen short rotation tree species over a period of 2.5 and 3.5 years under uniform site conditions in Punjab, India. The highest above ground biomass was observed in Gmelina arborea (clonal), Populus deltoides and Eucalyptus tereticornis (clonal), indicating superior productivity potential. Rooting behaviour varied widely among species, with vegetatively propagated trees exhibiting dominant horizontal root spread and indigenous species such as Acacia nilotica and Ailanthus excelsa displaying deeper vertical roots but lower biomass accumulation. The shoot to root biomass ratio and canopy to root spread ratios differed significantly among species, with implications for water and nutrient competition in agroforestry systems. This study emphasizes the importance of species-specific root and shoots traits in selecting suitable trees for integrated land use planning, with potential applications in carbon sequestration, soil health improvement, and sustainable agroecosystem management.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Anon. (2011). Tackle climate change: use wood. 84p. www.ceibois.org.
Cannell M.G.R. and Willet S.C. (1976). Shoot growth phenology, dry matter distribution and root: shoot ratios of provenances of Populus trichocarpa, Picea sitchensis and Pinus contorta growing in Scotland. Silvae Genetica, 25: 40-59.
Literature cited 2: Chaturvedi O.P. and Das D.K. (2002). Studies on rooting patterns of 5 year-old important agroforestry tree species in North Bihar, India. Forests Trees and Livelihoods, 12: 329-339.
Chaturvedi O.P., Das O.K. and Jha A.N. (1992). Biomass and net production of five 15 month old multipurpose tree species in North Bihar, India. Nitrogen Fixing Tree Research Report, 10: 47-50.
ID: 66619
Title: Study of Bhutan's Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) event on Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal and Mitigation Measures regarding it
Author: Akash Verma
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (12) Dec. 25 Pg No. 1123-1131 (2025)
Subject: Study of Bhutan's Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) event on Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal and Mitigation Measures regarding it
Keywords: Glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), Jaldapara National Park, Bhutan himalayas, Climate change and Flood risk, Disaster mitigation strategies.
Abstract: Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) are major hydrological hazards in the eastern Himalayas, threatening downstream ecosystems like Jaldapara National Park (JNP) in West Bengal. This study investigates Bhutan's GLOF events and their impact on Jaldapara, located along the Torsa River and vulnerable to floods from glacial lakes in the Amochu, Phochu, and Mangchu basins. Combining climate science, hydrology, and conservation biology, the study analyzes historical flood data, satellite imagery, and river dynamics to assess past events and future risks. Findings reveal that climate-induced glacial lake expansion in Bhutan poses escalating threats to Jaldapara's ecosystem, including riverbank erosion, habitat loss, and disruption of wildlife, notably the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The study recommends early warning systems, cross-border cooperation, structural reinforcements, and adaptive conservation strategies. Integrating disaster risk reduction with ecological planning, the research advocates for a holistic approach to enhance Jaldapara's resilience against GLOFs and ensure long term biodiversity conservation.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bajracharya S.R., Mool P.K. and Shrestha B.R. (2007). Impact of climate change on Himalayan glaciers and glacial lakes: Case studies on GLOF and associated hazards in Nepal and Bhutan, ICIMOD, Kathmandu.
Carey M. (2012). In the Shadow of Melting Glaciers: Climate Change and Andean Society. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Literature cited 2: Chandra Ghosh, Sumita Ghatak, Kishor Biswas, A.P. Das (2021). Status of tree diversity of the Jaldapara National Park in West Bengal, India; Trees, Forests and People, 3,100061, ISSN 2666-7193, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tfp.2020.100061.
Chatterjee R., Basu R. and Sen D. (2023). Flash flood susceptibility mapping in Alipurduar district: A GIS-based approach, Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences, 23(5): 987-1003. Doi:10.5194/nhess-23-987-2023.
ID: 66618
Title: Habitat shift of black kite (Milvus migrans) in response to easy availability of food in Municipal dumpers
Author: Fayaz Ahmad Ahanger, Sheikh Tanveer Salam, Mohammad Lateef
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (11) Nov. 25 Pg No. 1119-1121 (2025)
Subject: Habitat shift of black kite (Milvus migrans) in response to easy availability of food in Municipal dumpers
Keywords: None
Abstract: Black kite is regarded as bird of prey which usually obtains its food by preying on animals like small birds, their young ones, bats, rodents, eggs, fish and also feeds upon on dead bodies of animals or animal parts whenever available (Narayanana,1989;Sharma and ,Soni ,2017).It is usually nests on large Chinar trees where egg laying and rearing of young one takes place. It has been observed that due to increasing urbanization a lot of garbage including wastes of animal origin like dead bodies of animal, animal parts,skins,and viscera of poultry and fish,hides of animals are collected in municipal dumpers (large dustbins).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Blanco G. (1997). Role of refuse as food for migrant, floater and breeding Black Kites (Milvus migrans),J.Raptor Res., 31:71-76.
Delibes M. (1975). Alimentacion del milano negro Milvus migrans en Donan Huelva ,Espana.Ardeolo,21:183-207.
Literature cited 2: Ferguson-Lees J. and Chirstie D.A. (2001).Raptors of the world.Houghton Miffin Company. New York.
Geroudet P. (1965). Les rapaces dilumes et noctumes d' Europe Delachaux et Niestle, Neuchatel,Switerzerland.
ID: 66617
Title: Frequently used Plant Species Diversity along Disturbance Gradients in Behali Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, Northeast India
Author: Imrana Laskar, Ranjit Dutta, Milu R. Das,S. I. Bhuyan
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (11) Nov. 25 Pg No. 1114-1118 (2025)
Subject: Frequently used Plant Species Diversity along Disturbance Gradients in Behali Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, Northeast India
Keywords: None
Abstract: Plants resources are the main significant source of rural people's livelihood, socio-economy, and it is related to the culture, traditions and human health. Local people mostly depend on the forest resources so much so that they constitute an integral component of the forest ecosystem of the region. This indigenous use technology also has a huge role in the conservation of native plants (Bhulyan and Laskar,2020). These renewable resources are excessively fond in the northeastern of India.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bhuyan S.I and Laskar I (2020). Traditional technology on Medicinal plant Used by Indigenous People of Behali Wildlife Sanctuary,Assam,North East India. Advances in Zoology and Botany, 8 (3):218-224.
Bhuyan S.I, Tripathi O.P and Khan M.L. (2014). Soil characteristics, dynamics of microbial biomass: a study of hill agro-ecosytems, Eastern Himalaya, India.International Journal of Current Science,12:79-86.
Literature cited 2: Chatterjee D. (1939).Studies on the endemic flora of India and Burma J.Asiat.Soc.Bengal, Sci,5:19-67.
Haridasn K. and Rao R.R. (1985). Forest Flora of Meghalaya. Bishen Singh and Mahendrapal Singh, Dehradun.
ID: 66616
Title: Lectotypification of Coelogyne pantlingii Lucksom
Author: Durga Kumar Pradhan
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (11) Nov. 25 Pg No. 1112-1113 (2025)
Subject: Lectotypification of Coelogyne pantlingii Lucksom
Keywords: None
Abstract: Sikkim Himalaya is bestowed with the richness of orchids and has 529 species under 132 genera till date on record (Hara,1966,1971, Matty and Malti ,2024). Meanwhile, in the recent time, Luckson (2007) published a species Coelogyne partingii. In the protologue by Lucksom, the type specimens are clearly indicated in holotype at CAL, along with isotypes at K(collection Number Lucksom 456a) and Gangtok Forest dept. Herbarium (collection Number Lucksom 457b,c).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Hara H. (1966). The Flora of Easteran Himalaya: Results of the Botanical Expedition to Eastern Himalaya. Part I. Organized by the University of Tokyo 1960 and 1963. University of Tokyo, Tokyo.
Hara H. (1971). The Flora of Eastern Himalaya. Second Report, University Museum, University of Tokyo.
Literature cited 2: Lucksom S.Z. (2007). The Orchids of Sikkim and North East Himalaya. S.Z. Lucksom, Siliguri, India.
Maity D. and Maiti G.G. (2024). Flora of Sikkim. A comprehensive Accounts of Angiosperms with Identification Keys. Vol. 3 Monocotyledons (Acoraceae–Zingiberaceae), Bishen Singh Mahendra Pal Singh, Dehra Dun, India. pp. 1342–1451.
ID: 66615
Title: Eco-physiological Observations on selected Grasses from Kheda District, Gujarat, India-Proline Estimation, pH Trends and Ecology of Selected Grasses from Kheda District
Author: Nupur A. Vijyanshi,Rupesh N. Nakar
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (11) Nov. 25 Pg No. 1103-1111 (2025)
Subject: Eco-physiological Observations on selected Grasses from Kheda District, Gujarat, India-Proline Estimation, pH Trends and Ecology of Selected Grasses from Kheda District
Keywords: Grasses, Importance value index (IVI), Plant diversity, Pearson correlation analysis, Proline content, Soil parameters, Grassland ecosystems.
Abstract: Grasses play a vital role in ecosystems and human life. This study investigates the seasonal responses of 29 grass species in Kheda district, Gujarat, highlighting Cynodon dactylon L. as the most dominant species in both summer (IVI: 46.08) and winter (IVI: 21.23). Paniceae was the dominant tribe (35%), followed by Andropogoneae (21%), with others contributing 4–17%. Pearson correlation analysis showed strong seasonal links between physiological and environmental factors—e.g., Proline strongly correlated with EC and TDS in both seasons. Diversity indices revealed moderate dominance and uneven distribution in summer, while winter showed higher diversity and more even distribution. These findings deepen our understanding of seasonal plant dynamics and support future ecological and conservation efforts.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Barnabás B., Jäger K. and Fehér A. (2008). The effect of drought and heat stress on reproductive processes in cereals. Plant, cell & environment, 31(1): 11-38. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-3040.2007.01727.x
Bates L.S., Waldren R.A. and Teare I.D. (1973). Rapid determination of free proline for water-stress studies. Plant and soil, 39: 205-207. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00018060.
Literature cited 2: Black A.L. (1973). Soil Property changes associated with crop residue management in a wheat fallow rotation. Soil Science Society of American Journal, 37: 943-946.
Boyer J.S. and Westgate M.E. (2004). Grain yields with limited water. Journal of experimental botany, 55(407): 2385-2394. https://doi.org/10.1093/jxb/erh219
ID: 66614
Title: Macrofungal Assemblage in Itanagar Capital Complex of Arunachal Pradesh, India and Ethnomycological usage Pattern in Nyishi Tribe
Author: Karma Tashi Sherpa,Karuna Shrivastava
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (11) Nov. 25 Pg No. 1086-1102 (2025)
Subject: Macrofungal Assemblage in Itanagar Capital Complex of Arunachal Pradesh, India and Ethnomycological usage Pattern in Nyishi Tribe
Keywords: Wild edible mushrooms, Diversity, Ethnomycology, Utilization, Local community.
Abstract: Macrofungi or mushrooms are central component of forest ecosystem that influence other life forms. Plant diversity rich areas are most favoured zones for macrofungi. Arunachal Pradesh, India, situated between the Eastern Himalaya and Indo-Burmese world's biodiversity hotspots, is also an important sub-centre for origin of wide variety of mushrooms. This paper deals with the mushroom diversity of Itanagar capital complex region of Arunachal Pradesh. A total of 641 fruiting bodies were collected and identified to 60 species, 45 genera, 24 families and 9 orders. The members of order Polyporales (43.3%) and Agaricales (46.5%) shared largest in total species diversity and family Polyporaceae (31.7%) was the most dominant. Pycnoporus cinnabarinus (135%) was most dominant species with highest Importance Value Index (8.67). Microporus xanthopus exhibited highest frequency (50%) and Trametes versicolor was most abundant species (59).
The ethnic acquaintance and beliefs of Nyishi tribe was also documented. Ethnomycological information collected through questionnaire and personal interviews indicated use of 16 wild edible mushrooms commonly called here as 'Tayin' (also named as Ikhnuro, Indhi, Lolam Tayin, Pukhaso, Rubhj Tayin, Inya, Huhiun etc.) as food. The species used in medicine locally named as 'Heimey Yoru' are used for blood pressure control. The current data has revealed rich diversity and ethnic importance of wild mushrooms of Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. This may help to promote future research on mushrooms and to make people aware of their importance in the region.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adekunle V.A.J. and Ajao K. (2005). Contributions of edible mushrooms (A non-timber forest product of tropical ecosystem) to rural livelihood in Oyo State, Nigeria, Pakistan Journal of Social Science, 3(5): 809-12.
Alam N.B., Shetu F.A., Shuvo M.N., Jazib A. and Alam N. (2022). A checklist of wild mushroom diversity and distribution in the Jahangirnagar University campus area, Bangladesh, Jahangirnagar University Journal of Biological Sciences, 11(1-2): 41-67.
Literature cited 2: Andrew E.E., Kinge R.T., Tabi E.M., Thiobal N. and Mih A.M. (2013). Diversity and distribution of macrofungi (mushrooms) in the Mount Cameroon Region, Journal of Ecology and the Natural Environment, 5(10): 318-334.
Ao T., Seb J., Ajungla T. and Deb C. (2016). Diversity of Wild Mushrooms in Nagaland, India, Open Journal of Forestry, 6: 404-419.
ID: 66613
Title: Status of Family Orchidaceae in Madhya Pradesh, India
Author: Sanjay Mishra,Neelima A. M.,B. Lakshmanudu,Vinay Ranjan
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (11) Nov. 25 Pg No. 1079-1085 (2025)
Subject: Status of Family Orchidaceae in Madhya Pradesh, India
Keywords: Diversity, Madhya Pradesh, Orchidaceae.
Abstract: A checklist of the family Orchidaceae of Madhya Pradesh with updated taxonomy has been prepared to assess the diversity of the family in the state with updated taxonomy after the bifurcation of the state. The checklist has been prepared on the basis of the herbarium consultation (BSA) and the relevant literatures pertaining to the floristic diversity of the state. The checklist comprises 59 species under 27 genera. At the species level, maximum diversity has been recorded in genus Habenaria (11 species) Peristylis and Vanda (6 species each).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: India State of Forest Report, 2023. (ISFR 2023) https://fsi.nic.in/isfr19/vol2/isfr-2019-vol-ii-madhya-pradesh.pdf
Khan S.S. (2016). The flora of Bhopal, its analysis and reassessment, Indian J. Applied & Pure Bio., 31(2): 203-217.
Literature cited 2: Kumar A. and Khanna K.K. (2001). Wild ornamental orchids of Madhya Pradesh India, Journal of Economic and Taxonomic Botany, 25(3): 523- 529.
ID: 66612
Title: Impact of Climate Change on the Distribution of Endemic orchid Habenaria grandifloriformis Blatt. & McCann in Peninsular India
Author: Yasaswinee Rout,Jeewan Singh Jalal
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (11) Nov. 25 Pg No. 1069-1078 (2025)
Subject: Impact of Climate Change on the Distribution of Endemic orchid Habenaria grandifloriformis Blatt. & McCann in Peninsular India
Keywords: Climate change, Endemic, Peninsular India, Near threatened, MaxEnt
Abstract: The present study investigated the species distributional model of Habenaria grandifloriformis Blatt & McCann in Peninsular India using the MaxEnt model under two climate change scenarios (SSP2-4.5 & SSP5-8.5). Both primary (field surveys) and secondary data (herbarium & literature surveys), along with aspect, elevation, slope, and 19 bioclimatic variables, were used to determine the current and future habitat suitability of the species. A total of 249 occurrence records were taken into account, out of which 30% were used as training data. Of the total study area, 51332.33 km2 (2.93%) is highly suitable for the species. The model projects a substantial decrease in the future by 4.93% to 25.90% under SSP2-4.5 and 4.10% to 49.13% in SSP5-8.5 scenarios by 2090. A state-wise analysis indicates that Maharashtra has the highest suitable habitat and is projected to decrease in the future, except in 2040. The present study highlights that the Maximum Temperature of the Warmest Month (Bio5) and Annual precipitation (Bio12) were the most significant variables in the model, followed by Precipitation Seasonality (Bio15), which also contributed substantially to the species distribution. Moreover, Rajasthan is projected to have more than 100 km2 of suitable habitat under future climatic conditions in both scenarios. As the habitat of the species is severely threatened by tourism and other human activities, this study provides baseline data on probable suitable habitat to support conservationists in taking essential steps for the species' protection.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Alarcón D., Santos D. and Arroyo M.T. (2023). Population Based Evidence of Climate Change Adaptation in an Endangered Plant Endemic to a Biodiversity Hotspot, Plants, 12(10): 2017.
Ali F., Khan N., Khan A.M., Ali K. and Abbas F. (2023). “Species Distribution Modelling of Monotheca buxifolia (Falc.) A. DC.: Present Distribution and Impacts of Potential Climate Change.” Heliyon, 9(2): e13417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.
Literature cited 2: oral D. and Moktan S. (2024). Modelling current and future potential distribution of medicinal orchids in Darjeeling eastern Himalaya. Plant Ecology, 225(3): 213-226.
Chandra N., Singh G., Lingwal S., Jalal J.S., Bisht M.S., Pal V., Bisht M.P.S., Rawat B. and Tiwari L.M. (2022). Ecological niche modeling and status of threatened alpine medicinal plant Dactylorhiza hatagirea D. Don in Western Himalaya. Journal of Sustainable Forestry, 41(10): 1029-1045.
ID: 66611
Title: Threats to Epiphytic Orchids in Joypur Forest Range, Bankura, West Bengal, India
Author: Susanta Jana,Bingshati Singha Mahapatra,Subrata Das,Sudipta Mandal
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (11) Nov. 25 Pg No. 1064-1068 (2025)
Subject: Threats to Epiphytic Orchids in Joypur Forest Range, Bankura, West Bengal, India
Keywords: Epiphytic orchids, Importance value index, Joypur forest, Orchid host plant, Tree diversity.
Abstract: Epiphytic orchids are generally found in subtropical forests, they can also be found in tropical dry deciduous forests. However, their phorophyte preferences is largely dependent on the diversity of tree species in forest ecosystem. The aims of this present study to assess the diversity of tree species in Joypur Forest Range of Bankura district, with a focus on the density of host plants for significant epiphytic orchids. We recorded a total of 39 tree species belonging to 22 families, and also identified 06 species of epiphytic orchids. The highest Important value Index (IVI value-58.09) was recorded for the dominant tree species Shorea robusta Gaertn., associated with Semecarpus anacardium L.f. (29.00), and Croton persimilis Müll. Arg. (14.33). Diversity index (H'), Dominance index(cd) and Evenness index(E) were calculated from total sample. The value of the indices is 1.58, 0.06 and 0.204 respectively. Along with calculating the Importance Value Index (IVI) of the dominant tree species, we also calculated the IVI of the orchid host tree species and determined their density per hectare of forest area. The present investigation suggests that the reduced density of orchid host trees in the forest area could be a threat to the survival of epiphytic orchids. Therefore, additional research is needed to investigate the factors affecting the survival of epiphytic orchids, including fungal diversity and host tree bark ecology, in order to develop and implement effective conservation management plans for the Joypur Forest.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Chakraborti S.D., Oraon D. and Samanta S. (2021). Orchidaceae in Ajodhya Hills of Purulia, West Bengal, India: diversity, threats and conservation strategies. Richardiana. pp.267-282.
Curtis J.T. (1959). The Vegetation of Wisconsin, An ordination of Plant Communities. University Wisconsin Press, Madison Wisconsin, USA.
Literature cited 2: Harvais G. and Hadley G (1967). The Relation between Host and Endophyte in Orchid Mycorrhiza. New Phytol., 66: 205-215.
ISFR. (2023). India state Forest Report, Forest Survey of India, Forest and Climate change, Government of India, 1: 184-185