Studies on Ex-situ conservation and adaptability of some native and naturalised species of western ghats

Biodiversity is a critical requirement for present and future generations. In addition to ecosystems, populations, and species, it also includes the various subunits of species, each of which has a unique set of traits. By the year 2050, there may be a significant loss in biological diversity and the loss of millions of acres of arable land. Poaching, deforestation, forest fires, climate change, and the introduction of alien species are the additional threats in the Western Ghats region. For the purpose of identifying changes, biodiversity needs to be closely monitored which can be feasible by compiling a database of the impacted area’s flora and fauna and conserving the same. The Indian Institute of Horticultural Research in Bengaluru has established a biodiversity block to protect the region’s biodiversity and genetic stock. We characterised over 100 plant species in this study, including 80 tree species, 20 shrubs, 10 vines, and 10 perennial herbs that were collected and conserved ex-situ in the institute. The conservation of rare, endangered, and threatened species in this area has received special attention.