Biodiversity Assessment of Trees and Shrubs at Tirunelveli’s Science Centre in Southern India: A Conservation Perspective
Shrikanth Saraswathi Krishnamurthi *
Department of Science and Technology-Technology Enabling Centre, School of Life Science, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi and Innovation Research Centre Hub, District Science Centre (NCSM, Govt. of India) Tirunelveli, India.
Vinoth
Department of Botany, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.
Siva
Department of Botany, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.
Dinesh Raj
Department of Botany, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
A comprehensive taxonomical floristic survey conducted at the District Science Centre in Tirunelveli identified 84 species of trees and shrubs, documenting each plant species with detailed information on medicinal uses, family classification, commercial importance, and population count of individual plants. The survey identified 33 families and 68 genera, with Fabaceae being the most dominant family, followed by Rubiaceae, Arecaceae, and Malvaceae. Additionally, the survey highlighted a list of vulnerable, threatened, and endangered tree species such as Cycas beddomei Dyer., Santalum album L., emphasizing the need for conservation efforts based on their spatial reach and anthropogenic pressures. These species face various threats, including loss of habitat, agriculture, pollution load, and recreational disturbances, and were assessed according to the IUCN Red List criteria. This study provides valuable insights for botanists, conservationists, and policymakers, promoting sustainable management and protection of plant biodiversity in the region.
Keywords: Tirunelveli science centre, medicinal plants, conservation of plants, flora diversity