Abstract :
Kachchh has unique biogeography and floral diversity due to its geographical location and its climatic features. Gugariyana Reserve Forest is located in the western part of Kachchh district. A study was conducted to document the floral diversity and phyto-sociology of the area. The survey was made by using line transect method and quadrate method to analyse the floral diversity of this Reserve Forest. A total of 164 species of plants recorded from the reserve in which 38 plants were used for medicinal purposes by local people. Herbs are the most domonent life froms in this reserve. The presence of large number of medicinal plant, Medicinal Plant Conservation Area (MPCA) was made in some parts of this Reserve Forest. Invasion of Prosopis juliflora is the major threats for the floristic diversity of this Reserve Forest. Aparts from invasion, intensive grazing by livestock and excessive utilization of forest produces are also posing threats for the Reserve Forest. Both in-situ and ex-situ conservation practices is essential for survival of threatened plant species of this Reserve Forest.
Keyword :
Conservation; Floral diversity; Gugariyana; Kachchh; Medicinal plant; Threat.