Phytosociological analysis of a traditionally managed sacred grove in transitional ecosystem of eastern lateritic part of India

Background: Traditionally managed sacred groves in the lateritic parts of eastern India are a common phenomenon. Groves located in the transitional ecosystem are characteristically rich in biodiversity and are found to be showcasing local refuges. Besides the cultural and aesthetic needs of mankind, these ancient forest remnants are the center of attraction to the researchers for their immense veritable gene pool thriving on sacred belief. Present study highlights the phytosociological characteristics along with the way of traditional management of a sacred grove. Method: Traditional management practices were observed from the local community. Plants were identified following standard literature. Nature of relationship between different climbers and lianas with the major tree species of the grove was studied through cluster analysis, based on percentage cover data of each of the major climbers and lianas on the host trees. Results: Syzygium cumini, Shorea robusta and Terminalia arjuna contributed most to the architecture built up of the grove. Out of 12 major species of climbers and lianas, Derris scandens showed its maximum abundance in terms of canopy coverage throughout the grove followed by Tinospora cordifolia and Gouania tiliaefolia. Certain degree of positive correlation was observed between different climbers and lianas with the mean height and mean diameter at breast height of the major tree species. Conclusions: High species richness, confinement of the species and less undergrowth are the key characteristics of a sacred grove in transitional ecosystem. Opportunistic and aggressive nature of spreading have rendered Derris scandens, Tinospora cordifolia and Gouania tiliaefolia fittest in these highly overlapping niches of the grove. Adaptive management involving the local folk may help the Government in formulating the conservation strategies especially in non forest areas.