Angiospermic Diversity of Gobichettipalayam Taluk

Introduction

In a broad sense, biodiversity represents the comprehensive assembly of species, populations, and ecological communities that exist within both natural and human-managed environments. This biological variety spans diverse landscapes, including arid deserts, dense forests, aquatic ecosystems such as rivers and lakes, and agricultural zones. Specifically, ecosystem diversity highlights the variety of habitats available across different geographical scales on Earth. Beyond its ecological role, biodiversity is fundamental to human survival, providing a consistent and varied supply of flora and fauna for global food security [2].

India holds a prestigious status as one of the world’s 17 “megadiverse” nations, sheltering a vast proportion of the planet’s biological wealth [10]. As a subcontinent, its unique positioning within the global biogeographical realm allows it to host an extraordinary range of life forms and habitats [5].

Tamil Nadu stands out as one of India’s most biologically significant states. Its geography is a mosaic of varied ecosystems, ranging from the mountain ranges of the Western and Eastern Ghats to expansive coastal regions, wetlands, and dry deciduous forests. The state is a sanctuary for numerous endemic species, making the preservation of its flora and fauna a critical environmental priority. An indigenous conservation model is evident in the state’s 5,000+ sacred groves. These small forest fragments are protected by local communities through traditional religious beliefs. Globally, over 50,000 species are harvested for their medicinal and aromatic properties, serving as the foundation for perfumes, personal care, and traditional healing systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani [6]. Ultimately, the human species remains intrinsically linked to the natural world. We rely on healthy ecosystems for the most fundamental necessities of life, including the oxygen required for respiration, as well as our daily requirements for water, nutrition, and shelter.

Materials and methods

2.1 Study area

Gobichettipalayam Taluk is situated at an average elevation of 213 meters (699 ft) above mean sea level. Geographically, the region is influenced by the Western Ghats, which border the area to the west and north. The study site is located between the coordinates of 11°27’20” N latitude and 77°26’01” E longitude. The environmental conditions of the Taluk are characterized by the following sectors. The area receives an average annual precipitation of 92 cm. Rainfall is typically moderate to high, though it remains unpredictable and unevenly distributed throughout the year. The climate is predominantly dry and sultry, with peak temperatures occurring during the summer months. A distinct cooling trend is observed during the winter season, particularly from November to January, when temperatures often drop below the regional average.

2.2 Field Study and Identification of Plants

A comprehensive floristic survey was carried out across Gobichettipalayam Taluk during 2024–2025. To document the full range of seasonal plant variations, the survey was conducted at regular intervals. Following conservation ethics, all plant samples were collected using non-destructive methods. While most plants were identified in their natural environment, specimens needing further detailed analysis were collected and made into herbarium sheets. This preservation enabled thorough morphological examination and long-term record-keeping. The taxonomic identities of the plants were determined and verified through consultation of authoritative regional and national floras. The main references used for confirmation included:

• Gamble and Fischer (1915–1935): Flora of the Presidency of Madras
• Fyson (1932): The Flora of the South Indian Hill Stations
• Hooker (1897): The Flora of British India
• Henry et al. (1994): Flora of Tamil Nadu, India

Results and Discussion

          The floristic study of Gobichettipalayam Taluk revealed a diverse collection of 310 angiosperm species across 77 families. A taxonomic analysis shows a clear dominance of Dicotyledonae, which includes 262 species (84.5%), while Monocotyledonae features 48 species (15.5%). According to the Bentham and Hooker system, Polypetalae emerges as the main subclass (40.9%), followed by Gamopetalae (30%), Monochlamydeae (13.2%), and Monocotyledons (15.4%). Analyzing the vegetative habits within the area indicates that herbs are the most common life form with 115 species, suggesting a rich herbaceous understory. This is followed by shrubs (90 species), trees (60 species), and climbers (40 species), while succulents are the least represented, with just one species. Additionally, the study identifies Leguminosae as the most important family, with 25 genera and 25 species. Other notable families contributing to the region’s biodiversity include Poaceae (20 species), Malvaceae (18 species), and Amaranthaceae and Euphorbiaceae, each with 15 species. This distribution highlights the ecological significance of the Gobichettipalayam area as an important storehouse of regional plant diversity.

The nutritional aspects of some wild edible plants play a crucial role in the diet and food security of indigenous communities in India, including Alternanthera sessilis, Amaranthus campestris, Amaranthus caudatus, Amaranthus dubius, Amaranthus spinosus, Amaranthus viridis, Psilotrichum elliotti, Scadoxux multiflorus, Zizyphus jujuba, Syzygium cumini, Areca catechu, Arachis hypogea, Artocarpus heterophyllus, and Anona squamosa.[13]

The survey highlighted several species with significant medicinal and dietary value, many of which are integrated into local daily consumption. Notably, species such as Coriandrum sativum [15], Cissus quadrangularis, and Centella asiatica [9] are recognized for their therapeutic potential. Other important medicinal plants recorded include Eclipta alba [7], Alternanthera sessilis, Acalypha indica, Abutilon indicum, and Euphorbia hirta [1].

The region also supports a variety of nutrient-dense green leafy vegetables and woody perennials, including Spinacia oleracea, Kedrostis foetidissima, Moringa oleifera, Murraya koenigii, Phyllanthus niruri, and Sesbania grandiflora. These plants are valued not only as food sources but also for their functional health benefits. They are particularly noted for enhancing digestive health and possessing potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, making them vital components of traditional wellness practices and daily nutrition.

The Cucurbitaceae family represents a significant component of the local flora, offering substantial nutritional and medicinal benefits due to its complex phytochemical profile. Several species from this family are actively utilized in both traditional and contemporary medicinal practices, including Cucumis maderaspatanus, Cucumis sativus, Cucurbita pepo, Luffa acutangula, Luffa cylindrica, Lagenaria siceraria, Kedrostis foetidissima, and Coccinia grandis [8]. Furthermore, the genus Amaranthus is globally recognized for its high nutrient density and therapeutic versatility [11, 4]. Specifically, Amaranthus viridis and Amaranthus spinosus are valued for their medicinal properties; leaf and flower decoctions or infusions are traditionally applied to manage inflammatory conditions such as gout. These plants serve multiple pharmacological roles in local healthcare, acting as natural antiseptics, diuretics, and laxatives.

Spinacia oleracea is low in carbohydrates and dietary fiber. (3.6 g per 100 g) , (2.9 g per 100 g with essential proteins and low in fat (0.4 g per 100 g ) making it a low calorie food as it is rich in Vitamins A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Vitamin B9 are rich in minerals, phytochemicals and anti-oxidants moreover it has high health benefits such as supports eye health, Boots immunity, Improves Bone Health, Aids digestion, Regulates blood pressure and Reduces oxidative stress[14,3].

Conclusion:

The present floristic investigation of Gobichettipalayam Taluk establishes the region as a significant repository of angiospermic diversity within the Western Ghats’ transition zone. The survey identifies a heterogeneous botanical composition, ranging from seasonal herbaceous ground cover to structural perennial arborescents. The dominance of species such as Azadirachta indica and Millingtonia hortensis underscores the stable ecological framework of the local plains, while the high frequency of medicinal flora highlights the ethnobotanical importance of this riverine ecosystem.

Our findings indicate that the biodiversity of this taluk acts as a critical biological corridor that resists fragmentation. However, the documented flora faces increasing pressure from anthropogenic factors, including habitat encroachment and climate-induced shifts. To preserve this genetic reservoir, it is imperative to move beyond isolated protection and adopt landscape-level conservation strategies. This study serves as a baseline for future phytosociological research and emphasizes the urgency of integrating sustainable management practices to ensure the resilience of these natural habitats for future generations.

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