Flora in Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Kabirdham district of Chhattisgarh, India, is a remarkable biodiversity hotspot that offers a rich tapestry of flora.
Spanning over an area of 163 square kilometers, the sanctuary is nestled in the Maikal Hill range and is known for its varied landscapes ranging from dense forests to grasslands, which support a diverse array of plant species.
Forest Types and Dominant Species
The sanctuary’s flora is primarily categorized into tropical moist and dry deciduous forests. These forests are home to a wide variety of tree species, each playing a crucial role in the ecosystem.
The dominant tree species in the tropical moist deciduous forests include Sal (Shorea robusta), Teak (Tectona grandis), and Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium).
These trees are significant not only for their ecological role but also for their economic value, providing timber and other forest products.
In the dry deciduous forests, one can find species such as Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), Mahua (Madhuca indica), and Palash (Butea monosperma). These trees are well-adapted to the drier conditions and are important for the local communities, especially the Tendu leaves which are used for making traditional Indian cigarettes, bidis.
Understory and Ground Flora
The understory of Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is equally rich and diverse. It comprises various shrubs, herbs, and grasses that thrive under the canopy of the taller trees. Notable among these are the Lantana camara, Vitex negundo, and Cassia tora.
These plants provide food and shelter to a myriad of wildlife species, including insects, birds, and small mammals.
The ground flora includes a variety of grasses and herbs which are particularly prominent in the grassland areas of the sanctuary.
Species such as Chrysopogon fulvus, Heteropogon contortus, and Cynodon dactylon dominate these grasslands. These grasses are crucial for the herbivorous fauna of the sanctuary, providing them with the necessary sustenance.
Climbers and Epiphytes
Bhoramdev is also home to an array of climbers and epiphytes which add to the complexity and diversity of the forest structure.
Climbers like Bauhinia vahlii and Mucuna pruriens are commonly seen entwining themselves around the trees. Epiphytes, though not as numerous as in tropical rainforests, include species such as Vanda tessellata, an orchid that clings to tree trunks and branches
Medicinal Plants
The sanctuary is a treasure trove of medicinal plants, many of which have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Plants such as Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) are found here. These plants are highly valued for their therapeutic properties and are often harvested by local communities for medicinal purposes
Conservation and Challenges
While Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for flora, it faces several conservation challenges. Human activities such as illegal logging, encroachment, and overgrazing by livestock pose significant threats to the sanctuary’s flora. Efforts are being made to mitigate these impacts through strict enforcement of conservation laws, community engagement, and sustainable management practices.
In conclusion, the flora of Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is a vibrant and vital component of its ecosystem. From towering trees to delicate herbs, the sanctuary’s plant life supports a wide range of wildlife and sustains local human populations. Preserving this rich botanical diversity is essential for maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring the continued prosperity of this natural haven