Over the past 50 years, there has been a significant loss of habitat and deforestation due to the rapid urbanization and rise of the human population, which has driven wildlife to the verge of extinction. Due to a number of circumstances, including fast expansion of land and a high population density, India—a country renowned for its abundant biodiversity—is currently at the cutting edge of this catastrophe. climatic change, and habitat loss. Therefore, the critical need to safeguard endangered plant species and their ecosystems is highlighted on the 17th of May which is the National Endangered Day for Species.
To determine the risk of extinction for species under a political governance unit, countries or organizations create a number of Local Red Lists. In order to assess the extent of the loss of hundreds of species & subspecies, the Red List maintained by the IUCN is based on exact criteria. These standards apply to all creatures and all parts of the planet.
It is crucial to increase awareness, back conservation efforts, and push for laws that put the preservation of endangered species first in order to counteract the immediate threat of extinction that countless species face. We have prepared a list of some of the Top Endangered Plant Species in India. Let us take a closer look and find out about those endangered plant species in detail.
1. Nilgiri Sandalwood:
Only the Western Ghats are home to this rare kind of towering evergreen tree, whose scent fills the air. Unfortunately, habitat degradation and over-harvesting of its valuable wood as well as oil are currently threatening its continued existence. Due to its substantial alpha santalol content, Indian sandalwood yet fetches high rates for its essential oil; nevertheless, its previous use for exquisite woodworking has been virtually eradicated due to the scarcity of large trees. Although the plant has a long lifespan, harvesting it is only feasible after several years. The scientific name is Santalum album.
2. Indian Gooseberry:
It could be shocking for you to learn that amla is listed as a vulnerable plant in our nation. This tree is at risk of going extinct on our land due to habitat loss as well as excessive use because of its therapeutic qualities. The berries are picked by hands after reaching to the upper branches that carry the fruits, and they ripen in the fall. Indian gooseberry has a sour, bitter, and astringent flavor and is fairly fibrous. The scientific name is Phyllanthus emblica.
3. Western Ghats Tree Fern:
Its scientific name is Cyathea nilgirensis. This kind of fern is one of the biggest tree ferns on the planet and is found in the region known as the Western Ghats. Despite its remarkable size, habitat degradation as well as excessive collecting for ornamental reasons pose serious challenges to it. C. nilgirensis favors environments like Myristica wetland that have a comparatively greater moisture content. Biologists are very interested in the Myristica marshes because of their little-known biota, which makes them virtual living museums of ancient life.
4. Himalayan Yew:
The Himalayan yew, also known as the Taxus wallichiana, is a kind of yew that is indigenous to the Himalayas and some regions of southeast Asia. Indigenous medicine makes use of the species in several ways. According to the IUCN Red List, it has been designated as endangered. Throughout most of its geographic distribution in the Himalayas & western China, the plant is being heavily exploited for its leaves & bark. In Nepal and India, declines have been especially severe; reductions of up to 90% have been documented.
5. Indian Pitcher plant:
A vulnerable tropical pitcher plant belonging to the genus Nepenthes is called Nepenthes khasiana, named for the Khasi Hills, where it is primarily native. The sole Nepenthes species indigenous to India is this one. The plant is believed to use its blue fluorescence to draw in prey. The species is uncommon in the wild and has a very limited range. However, it is currently being grown on the campus of Nagaland College in Nagaland thanks to recent developments in tissue culture and agro-technology.
6. Manipur Tree Quinine:
This plant, which is native to northeastern India, is in danger of going extinct because of overharvesting for its therapeutic uses. This herb, Dichroa febrifuga, is regarded as one of the 50 essential herbs in ancient Chinese medicine.
7. Wild Himalayan Cherry:
A stunning deciduous tree found in the Himalayan geographical area is in danger of being overused for its priceless timbers and therapeutic qualities. With cultural and religious importance, Prunus cerasoides is referred to among Hindi as Pajja, or Padam in India.
8. Himalayan Blue Poppy:
Within the genus Meconopsis, Meconopsis aculeata represents a blue-flowered prickly species that is limited to certain regions of India as well as Pakistan in the western Himalayas. Because of the over-collection brought on by the species’ great value as a medicinal herb, wild populations are under stress. Over-collection for its decorative value as well as habitat loss have put this flowering plant in danger.
9. Lady’s Slipper Orchid:
A rare and beautiful orchid species known for its exceptional beauty can be found in the Himalayan region. Due to the loss of its native environment and, second, the widespread collection for horticulture, it is listed as an endangered species in India.
10. Indian Wild Fig:
One huge evergreen tree species that is notable for its exceptional combination of medicinal & edible fruit is found throughout India. After all of the seeds are thrown away, the fruits are frequently consumed as vegetables and prepared into curries and stir-fries. However, habitat destruction, overexploitation, & rivalry from alien species pose serious risks to this plant.
Conclusion:
It is essential for the governing bodies as well as the local population to take care of the plant species that are on the verge of extinction. These species are the treasures of nature. Creating awareness is the least we can do for the preservation of these gifts from nature to humankind.