AN INVESTIGATION OF HUMAN INFLUENCES ON THE BIODIVERSITY IN SARISKA TIGER RESERVE, RAJASTHAN, INDIA

Abstract

The persistence and dispersal ability of species post-human disturbance, habitat loss, and fragmentation are crucial for preserving plant diversity and ecological functions. Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR), renowned for its biodiversity, faces rapid degradation due to shifting land uses and agricultural expansion. This study investigated fifteen zones within STR, comprising six core and nine buffer sites. Notably, core sites like Panidhal, Umri, Kankwari, Pandupol, Kalighati, and Karaska, and buffer sites including Garh, Talab, Karnimata, Bera, Raika, Kushalgarh, Kalachara, Dadikar, and Bakhtpura were examined.

Analysis revealed Kraska, Panidhal, Pandupol, and Bera as sites with the highest tree species richness, while Kalighati exhibited the greatest shrub diversity, contrasting Garh with the lowest richness. Panidhal, an undisturbed forest, boasted the highest tree species diversity, whereas Bakhtpura, experiencing high disturbance, scored lowest. Dominance concentration was lowest in Garh, indicating minor disturbance, and highest in Pandupol and Panidhal, representing undisturbed conditions.

The study utilized ANOVA tests to ascertain the impact of human disturbances on phylogenetic and taxonomic diversity within STR. Results demonstrated a significant loss of both diversity measures due to human disruptions. These findings underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts to mitigate human-induced threats and preserve the rich biodiversity of STR for future generations.