Population ecology and genetics of two threatened tropical evergreen trees, endemic to the Western Ghats, India

Atuna indica (Bedd.) Kosterm (Chrysobalanaceae) and Hydnocarpus longipedunculatus Robi. Sasidh. & Jose (Achariaceae) are two threatened evergreen trees, endemic to the southern Western Ghats, India. We investigated the population ecology and the genetic diversity of these species. The population ecological study comprised of demography, vertical, spatial and age-wise (ontogeny) distribution, along with the Importance Value Index (IVI) of target species in the community. Dominant Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) primers are employed for Genetic diversity analysis. The small population size, clumped and under canopy distribution pattern are the primary population ecological impediments of target species. In addition, the extremely low number of reproductive individuals in A. indica intensifies the concern. Genetic studies revealed better diversity and gene flow compared to other threatened species. The construction of hydroelectric dams followed by water reservoir formation in natural habitats plausibly reduced the population size and it reflects in genetic diversity results. The present study warrants the protection of natural habitats and ecological niche model-based restoration programs.