Phytosociological analysis of Myristica swamp forests of Kulathupuzha, Kerala, India

Abstract

The vegetation of Myristica swamp forests in Kulathupuzha, southern Kerala, India, was examined with reference to floristic composition, structure and diversity. Quadrates of 100*10 m were laid inside (17) and outside the swamps (14), and trees >10 cm girth at breast height were enumerated. A total of 2246 individual trees belonging to 58 species were recorded inside the swamps as against 1203 trees belonging to 89 species from outside the swamps. A total of 1775 shrubs belonging to 46 species and 26 species of herbs with 1082 individuals were recorded from inside the swamps. A total of 3535 shrubs belonging to 83 species and 491 herbs belonging to 30 species were recorded from outside the swamps. The Myristica swamp forests showed less diversity when compared to other forest types and was dominated by two Myristicaceae species, Myristica fatua var. magnifica and Gymnacranthera farquhariana. Comparison with Myristica swamps in other regions indicates that the Kulathupuzha region has the largest populations of the endangered M. fatua var. magnifica. Immediate steps for conservation are suggested.