Floristic Diversity of Bhainsroadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the floristic diversity of Bhainsroadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, conducted from July 2022 to June 2025. A total of 252 plant species, belonging to 73 families and 196 genera, were systematically documented through field surveys covering natural habitats, grasslands, plantations, community lands, wastelands, and road sides. Taxonomic classification followed the Bentham and Hooker system, and species were identified using the Rajasthan Flora volumes. Statistical analysis revealed an uneven but ecologically significant distribution of species among families, with Fabaceae and Poaceae being the most species-rich. The species–family frequency distribution exhibited a typical “hollow curve” pattern, and Chi-square goodness of fit tests (p < 0.001) confirmed non-random family dominance. Floristic richness was quantified using Menhinick’s Index (Dmn = 15.9) and Margalef’s Index (Dmg = 41.6), indicating high species richness comparable to other tropical dry deciduous forests. A strong positive correlation (R² ≈ 0.92) between species and genera per family suggested that generic diversification significantly contributes to overall floristic heterogeneity. The dicot–monocot ratio analysis further demonstrated significant structural dominance of dicots (214 species) over monocots (38 species) (p < 0.001), in alignment with dry deciduous forest ecosystems. These findings provide a scientifically robust baseline for the sanctuary’s floristic composition, highlighting its ecological complexity and underscoring its critical role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management.