Conservation strategies for Vatica lanceifolia (Roxb.) Blume: habitat distribution modelling and reintroduction in northeastern India

Vatica lanceifolia (Roxb.) Blume is a Critically Endangered species and native to the northeastern India, faces significant conservation challenges. Habitat distribution modelling approach was adopted to determine the potential region and suitable habitat for reintroduction of this species in order to improve its conservation status. The model incorporated six key variables: normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), elevation, slope, stress index, soil type, and soil moisture based on weighted overlay modelling approach. The study identified prospective locations for species reintroduction in the lower altitudes (175–470 m) and moderate slope of 10–30 degrees with excessively drained loamy soils within its present home range. NDVI exhibited a crucial role with intermediate magnitudes of 0.2–0.43 along with soil moisture of moderate range of 30–60 % respectively. The physiological impact in the study site was assessed in terms of stress index, which exhibited values of 0.2–0.31. These values indicate a moderate magnitude of stress, highlighting the fragile state of the ecosystem supporting the species. The model delineated the study area into three habitat zones, highly suitable (51%), moderately suitable (46%), and least suitable (3%) for reintroducing V. lanceifolia. This study provides comprehensive scientific evidence to enhance biodiversity conservation initiatives and optimize management strategies.