Lesser Known Timber Trees of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Abstract

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are classified as one of the 12 biogeographical zones of India. The vegetation of these islands is classified as 'Littoral' and 'Inland'. These islands represent 700 genera belonging to 140 families. About 14% of angiospermic species are endemic to these islands. The flora of Andaman Group of islands is distinct from that of Nicobar. This paper records 52 Lesser Known Timber Trees of these Islands. Tropical forests, the centres of biodiversity and the cradle of evolution, have been the worst affected. They were being destroyed at the rate of 100,000 km² every year. Most of the species in Andaman & Nicobar Islands are poorly known not only taxonomically but also from economic point of view. The vegetation of these islands are the only last bit of tropical evergreen Malesian available within territory with great use for future generation. It is also clinging on a very delicate balance in the face of grave threat from encroaching civilized man. In order to protect and preserve them for posterity, it is strongly recommended for immediate implementation that steps to be taken to establish a Arboretum of tropical region near Port Blair where rare, endemic and endangered species can be conserved and propagated, for that Rutland Island is quite ideal.