Status of Biodiversity in the Sacred Groves of Jaintia Hills , Meghalaya

Abstract

In three sacred groves of Jaintia Hills (Meghalaya) , covering a total area of approximately 28 ha , a total of 395 plant species was found distributed in 108 families. Proximity of this region to the species-rich regions of Eastern Himalayas , Myanmar , and South-Central China has resulted in high species and family richness of the groves. Complex community structure with many growth forms has also contributed to species richness. However , cultural and developmental activities have posed serious threats to the very survival of these groves.