ECOLOGICAL STATUS OF THERAPEUTICALLY IMPORTANT PLANTS IN THIASHOLA, MANJOOR, WESTERN GHATS, TAMIL NADU, INDIA

S. Sharmila*, K. Kalaichelvi and P. Premamalini

ABSTRACT

Sholas are the places of high biodiversity, which includes many endemic, endangered and rare species of both flora and fauna. Documentation of flora with their medicinal uses and the identification of ecological status are the most essential part in the conservation programmes. For this purpose in the present investigation was undertaken to document the ecological status, medicinal and economic uses of herbaceous plants in Thiashola, Manjoor, Nilgiris South Division, Western Ghats. The results of the study revealed that out of 53 species enumerated, 36 have been recognized as therapeutically important species. Among them, the species such as Achyranthes bidentata, Acmella calva, Asparagus fysoni, Centella asiatica and Gaultheria fragrantissima are suggested for cultivation and conservation so as to reduce the pressure upon wild population. Conclusion: These species may lose their ecological importance further and may become rare elements due to some intrinsic and extrinsic factors. However, long-term studies on their sociological behaviour are required to confirm this fact. Hence, it is suggested that in addition to habitat protection, priorities must be given for these species so as to protect the genetic stock and species as well.

Keywords: Shola, Nilgiris, Therapeutic, Conservation, Thiashola.