Basal Area Distribution in Tropical Rain Forests of Western Ghats

The Forests of Pattighat (Western Ghat-Karnataka) were studied to define the distribution pattern of different tree species and their growing stock. There is significant variation in the composition of tree species and their basal area in different localities. Analysis of B.A. (Basal Area) from different compartments reveal grouping of certain species in specific localities. Similarly the locality is distinguishable into two groups based on difference in mean yield. The association of tree species and their stocking has also shown a similar trend. Among the 21 species, Vateria indica and Kingiodendrun pinnatum form a strong group differing totally from another group of species consisting of Ficus mysorensis, Antiaris toxicaria, Garcima morela, Schletchera oleosa, Artocarpus heterophyllus. Cinnamomum zeylonicum, Mangifera Indica, Pterygota alata and Dimocarpus longan. Such information may be useful in choice of species in enrichment planting.