Author

Amit B. Mirgal1*, Anup Deshpande2, Satish N. Narkhede3, Rajesh P. Gunaga4, Sidanand V. Kambhar5 and K. Kotresha6

Abstract

Dipcadi concanense (Dalz.) Baker is a narrowly endemic geophyte restricted to lateritic plateaus of the Konkan region in Maharashtra, India. Although locally abundant at select sites, its distribution is highly fragmented and confined to habitats experiencing intense anthropogenic pressure. Between 2014 and 2024, extensive field surveys documented 23 populations across Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts, with one population in North Goa. Two reintroduction approaches—direct seed sowing and in-situ soil transfer containing bulbs—were evaluated across selected lateritic plateaus. Seed-based introductions showed initial establishment of 52%, declining to 25.4% after five years, yet populations persisted and exhibited self-regeneration. Soil transfer from genetically robust donor populations resulted in higher emergence and flowering, reaching up to 80% at certain sites. Despite local abundance, restricted habitat specificity, limited dispersal, and ongoing habitat loss justify continued conservation attention. This study presents the first long-term, field-based evaluation of reintroduction strategies for D. concanense and provides a practical framework for conserving habitat-restricted geophytes of the Western Ghats.
 

Pages:217-225

Doi Number 10.61289/jibs2026.03.24.0564

Keywords Dipcadi concanense; Endemic geophyte; Lateritic plateaus; Population recovery; Reintroduction; Western Ghats