Vegetation Status, Species Diversity and Endemism of Sulimudi Forests in Southern Western Ghats of Kerala, India

The present study deals with floristic analysis, phytodiversity and endemism of Sulimudi area in Idamalayar Forest Range of Malayattur Forest Division in Kerala state. From the study area 124 species of flowering plants belonging to 114 genera and 56 families were recorded. Among these, 34 species were reported as endemic to different geographical areas. Of these, Vateria indica is critically endangered, Euphorbia santapaui is endangered, species like Belosynapsis vivipara, Bentinckia condapanna, Dalbergia latifolia and Drypetes wightii are vulnerable and Pothos armatus is threatened. Phytosociological studies revealed that Mesua ferrea, Vateria indica, Palaquium ellipticum and Cullenia exarillata are the dominant species. Diversity indices such as Shannon's index and Simpson's index are also worked out. The paper highlights the base line information on the rich floral wealth and endemic diversity of the Sulimudi area, one of pristine patch in southern Western Ghats of Kerala, aiming the forest managers for better conservation planning.