Indian Journal of Ecology

The biodiversity heritage site of GKVK in Bengaluru was assessed for its herbaceous species composition, diversity and structure to better understand the seasonal vegetation dynamics and to provide baseline data for future conservation.Atotal of 600 quadrats (1 m x 1 m) in summer and winter season were established using random quadrat sampling method for vegetation sampling. A total of 59 species belonging to 55 genera and 25 families were recorded in winter and 39 species belonging to 36 genera and 14 families in summer season. The study site was dominated by the individuals of Cynodon dactylon (IVI=20.96) in summer season and Panicum maximum (IVI=26.25) in winter season. Shannon diversity index (3.12 and 3.30) and Simpson diversity index (0.94, 0.95) varied between summer and winter season, respectively. Herbaceous species diversity varied greatly between different seasons and different land use systems. Agricultural land use system had the greatest number of species with 35 and 39 species followed by planted Forest with 15 and 28 species in summer and winter season, respectively. Natural forest ecosystem had the least number of species compared to other land use systems. The present study hints at the influence of changes in land use pattern around the natural ecosystem and the work will provide baseline data for future conservation and management practices in the study area.