Rajeshwari N.*1 Nagaratna C. Kurbetta2 Spoorthi K.N.3 and Sowmya B.N.4
1-3Department of Extension and Communication Management, College of Community Science,
UAS, Dharwad, Karnataka
4Department of Agricultural Extension Education, College of Agriculture, UAS, Dharwad, Karnataka
Received-26.12.2024, Revised-11.01.2025, Accepted-29.01.2025
Abstract: The Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot, supports rich flora and fauna, with indigenous communities playing a vital role in conservation. This study examines plant diversity in the home gardens of the Halakki Vakkaligatribes in Ankola, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka. The research employs ecological indices, including the Shannon-Weaver Index (H’ = 3.242) and Simpson’s Diversity Index (1 – D = 0.928), to assess species richness and distribution. The findings indicate a highly diverse plant community, with a Simpson’s Dominance Index (D = 0.071) confirming minimal species dominance. The Simpson’s Reciprocal Index (1/D = 14.07) highlights species coexistence, essential for agroecological stability. Ankola’s humid coastal conditions, high annual rainfall (3000-3500 mm) and lateritic soils foster diverse plant species, including fruit trees (Musa paradisiaca, Mangifera indica, Psidium guajava), spices (Piper nigrum, Curcuma longa), medicinal plants (Ocimum tenuiflorum, Aloe barbadensis) and plantation crops (Cocos nucifera, Areca catechu). The high frequency and relative density of banana (17.54%), coconut (11.35%) and areca nut (5.13%) underscore their economic and agricultural importance. In contrast, sacred plants such as Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Calotropis gigantea (Ekke) demonstrate cultural significance but lower relative density.The findings provide a scientific basis for conservation efforts and reinforce the role of traditional home gardens in maintaining biodiversity in the Western Ghats.
Keywords: Halakki tribe, Home gardens, Biodiversity, Agroforestry, Ankola
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