Phytosociological Status of Grasses in Forest Division of Jhalawar, Rajasthan

Abstract

Phytosociological analysis is one of the best methods for the assessment and documentation of the present status of grasses in the light of rapid extinction of native species. A total of 36 grass species belonging to Poaceae family with highest importance value index (IVI) of Apluda mutica (49.27) as dominant followed by Aristida depressa (22.78) and Heteropogon contortus (21.70) as co-dominant grass species has been reported. The Shannon diversity index (3.29) indicates quite diverse, healthy and complex ecosystem with richness and evenness of many different grass species. The forest area facing excessive grazing practice leads to expansion of non-fodder herbaceous species as well as invasion of obnoxious exotic species. Therefore, the study provides a comprehensive understanding with baseline information crucial for ecological dynamics and conservation planning of grasses in Forest Division of Jhalawar, Rajasthan.