Status of floristic diversity and impact of development on two sacred groves from Maval Tehsil (Maharashtra, India) after a century

Abstract

Global urbanisation and anthropogenic activities are leading to a decline in religious beliefs and adversely affecting the biodiversity, ecology, and environmental sustainability of sacred groves, particularly in Lonavala (Rye Wood Park) and Karla Grove in Maval Tehsil, Pune district, Maharashtra, India. The Lonavala Grove, situated at 18.749° N, 73.403° E, and 622 m, and the Karla Grove, located at 18.760° N, 73.478° E, with an elevation of 621 m, both within the Western Ghats, are undergoing transformations due to landscape gardens and urban developments despite their historical significance. Gammie Alexander‘s 1903 floristic research identified 84 species across both groves, but our present study reveals a significant decline. Lonavala and Karla groves now host 46 genera and 42 species and 25 genera and 29 species, respectively, totaling 120 species from 49 families and 110 genera. This decline is attributed to the introduction of alien and invasive species, resulting in the disappearance of six indigenous species over the past century. The research aims to explore and document changes in floristic diversity, utilising remote sensing methods like NDVI for growth and deterioration assessment, measuring tree and liana girth, and analysing the impact on native flora due to the spread of alien species.