Research Article | Published: 31 March 2025

Mapping, germination studies and restoration of Piliostigma foveolatum: An endemic plant from Western Ghats, India

Rushikesh Sanjay Jadhav, Sharad Suresh Kambale and Sanjay Gajanan Auti

Indian Journal of Forestry | Volume: 48 | Issue: 1 | Page No. 64-71 | 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps1000-2025-92066J | Cite this article

Abstract

Populations of rare, endangered, and endemic plant species are declining under changing climatic conditions, largely due to poor germination and lack of effective propagation techniques. The present study focuses on Piliostigma foveolatum, a rare and endemic species of the Western Ghats, India, with a restricted distribution and meagre population. The species is dioecious, and field surveys revealed a marked gender imbalance, with fewer female plants, indicating potential reproductive constraints. A stiff seed coat was identified as a major barrier to germination, prompting detailed seed coat and germination studies using different pre-treatments. Among the treatments, mechanical scarification resulted in the highest germination percentage, followed by acid scarification. Successfully raised seedlings were restored to their natural habitat, along with public awareness initiatives. This work contributes to the conservation and restoration of P. foveolatum through enhanced propagation and population reinforcement.

Keywords

Conservation, Dormancy, Effect of pre-treatment, Propagation, Seed coat studies

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About this article

How to cite

Jadhav, R.S., Kambale, S.S. and Auti, S.G., 2025. Mapping, germination studies and restoration of Piliostigma foveolatum: An endemic plant from Western Ghats, India. Indian Journal of Forestry, 48(1), pp.64-71. https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps1000-2025-92066J

Publication History

Manuscript Received on 08 July 2024

Manuscript Revised on 24 February 2025

Manuscript Accepted on 21 March 2025

Manuscript Published on 31 March 2025

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