Distribution and Population Structure of <I>Amentotaxus assamica</I> Ferguson, a Critically Endangered and Endemic Species in Arunachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

Amentotaxus assamica, belonging to family Taxaceae, is a critically endangered and endemic species in Arunachal Pradesh (North-East India). The species has a limited distribution within the altitudinal range of 1.600 - 2, 000m amsl. The species was reported for the first time in 1928 by D.K. Ferguson from Dallai valley in Lohit District of Arunachal Pradesh. Recently, the same has been collected from the Papum Pare District of the state where it has a good population structure. The plant is found growing within the patches of Chimnobambusa sp. occurring abundantly in the locality. The present study deals with the population structure of Amentotaxus assamica occurring in this pure undisturbed forest stand. The density of seedlings is higher than saplings and trees which reveals good regeneration in this natural stand. No anthropogenic threats were observed in the present natural habitat however, practice of 'jhum' cultivation at the foothills show a possibility of destruction in due course of time. Degradation of this species from the earlier recorded areas due to various anthropogenic threats also justifies the needs for the conservation and protection of Amentotaxus assamica in their natural habitat. The in-situ conservation of the species is required due to its restricted distribution within a particular altitudinal range in that micro-environment. However effective conservation of the species is possible only if the area is included in the existing protected area prevailing in the adjacent region.