The Biobrio 12(3&4), 2025

An assessment of floristic composition, community structure, and net primary productivity of dominant forest types in the Jamtara District, Jharkhand

Hemlata Mandal & Amar Das

ABSTRACT:

The present study evaluates the floristic composition, community structure, biomass distribution, and Net Primary Productivity (NPP) of dominant forest types in Jamtara District, Jharkhand, situated within the Chota Nagpur Plateau. The primary objective was to generate site-specific quantitative data on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning and to examine the relationship between species diversity and productivity. A systematic field survey (2022-2025) using stratified random sampling and quadrat methods were conducted across Tropical Dry Deciduous (Sal-dominated), Mixed Deciduous, and Scrub/Degraded forest types. A total of 139 species belonging to 104 genera and 53 families were recorded, with dicotyledons contributing approximately 80.5% of the total diversity. Phytosociological analysis revealed Shorea robusta as the ecologically dominant species (IVI = 112.4), confirming the Sal-dominated character of the region. The total ecosystem biomass was estimated at 192.9 Mg ha-¹, with over 92% stored in the tree layer. Maximum NPP (14.57 Mg ha-¹ yr-¹) was recorded in Sal forests, whereas degraded forests exhibited substantially lower productivity (3.95 Mg ha-¹ yr-¹). Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant positive correlation between species diversity (Shannon-Wiener Index, H’) and NPP (P < 0.01), supporting the niche complementarity hypothesis. The findings highlight the functional importance of biodiversity in sustaining forest productivity and carbon sequestration potential.

Keywords:    

Floristic Diversity; Phytosociology; Shorea robusta; Biomass Distribution; Net Primary Productivity (NPP); Species Richness; Carbon Sequestration

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