Assessment of Biodiversity Using IVI and Ecological Parameters in the Wan Forest along the Wan Sankul Riverside, Vidarbha, Maharashtra

This study assessed the biodiversity of the Wan Forest along the Wan River in Vidarbha, Maharashtra, using the Importance Value Index (IVI) and various ecological parameters. A total of 22 plant species were recorded within the quadrats, with Tectona grandis L.f. and Vitex negundo L. being the most prominent. The total number of individuals counted for Tectona grandis was 105, while Vitex negundo was prevalent, with 103 individuals recorded. Additionally, rare species like Buchanania lanzan (Chaar) and Syzygium cumini (Jamun) were noted within the quadrats, highlighting the ecological richness of the area. The assessment revealed significant biodiversity parameters: the relative frequency (RLFQ %) for Tectona grandis was 7.27%, and for Vitex negundo, it was also 7.27%. The relative density (RLDN %) for Tectona grandis was 29.41%, while Vitex negundo had a relative density of 28.84%. The abundance (AB) for Tectona grandis was 35, and for Vitex negundo, it was 34.33. The calculated Importance Value Index (IVI) for Tectona grandis was 76.45, and for Vitex negundo, it was 75.12. This study emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts to protect the unique biodiversity of the Wan Forest, particularly the rare species identified within the quadrats, which contribute to the ecosystem’s complexity.