Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
In situ conservation of Atuna travancorica: a critically endangered tree in the Southern Western Ghats, India
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Praveena S., Sreeraj K. B., Sujanapal P., Jose P. A., Binoy N. M.
Research Articles | Published: 23 September, 2025
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Keywords: Propagation techniques, Seed viability, n Ex-situ conservation, Western Ghats
Abstract
Atuna travancorica (Bedd.) Kosterm., a critically endangered and endemic tree species of the Southern Western Ghats, is under severe threat due to habitat degradation and extremely poor natural regeneration. This study aimed to develop effective propagation protocols to aid in its conservation and restoration. The seeds of A. travancorica were found to be of intermediate storage behavior, rapidly losing viability within three weeks. Among 14 pre-sowing treatments tested, soaking seeds in 1% hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) for 48 h significantly enhanced germination (up to 100%) and improved seedling vigor. Vegetative propagation through stem cuttings and air layering using auxins, particularly Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA), showed high rooting success when young plant material was used. These protocols resulted in robust planting materials that were successfully introduced into natural habitats. One-year post-planting monitoring across five sites in the Kerala region of the Western Ghats revealed survival rates ranging from 58 to 78%, highlighting the species’ adaptability and successful establishment under varied site conditions. The study offers a scientifically validated propagation strategy to support large-scale reintroduction, population reinforcement, and eventual downlisting of A. travancorica under IUCN criteria, thereby contributing to long-term species conservation and forest restoration initiatives.
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Author Information
Department of Silviculture, KSCSTE-Kerala Forest Research Institute, Thrissur, India