Evaluating Species Diversity and Distribution using Ecological Niche Modeling and Diva-GIS in Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.)- A Temperate Forage Legume

Background: Trifolium pratense L. (red clover) is a temperate, leguminous pasture crop cultivated in the Himalayan region, primarily as a fodder source for livestock. Its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and function effectively as a cover crop enables it to thrive as a companion legume in grass-legume mixtures. Beyond its local utility, red clover holds global significance for fodder security and the conservation of agro-biodiversity in the present climatic regime. Methods: The present study employed novel ecological niche modelling (ENM) to identify ecologically suitable regions for the cultivation of red clover in India for the first time. Additionally, DIVA-GIS software was used to analyse the diversity and distribution patterns of Trifolium pratense L. within a defined ecological framework. Result: The study identified 26 districts across three Indian states/Union Territories as suitable for red clover cultivation and on-farm conservation: 16 districts in Jammu and Kashmir (J and K), 6 in Himachal Pradesh and 4 in Uttarakhand. Agronomic characterization of 26 red clover accessions collected from various locations in Jammu and Kashmir revealed notable variability in several traits, including plant height (34.8-64.6 cm), leaf length (22.8-65.4 mm), leaf width (13.7-45.5 mm), floret number per flower head (30.2-74.3) and dry matter yield per plant (18.0-49.4 g). Nutritional analysis also demonstrated variation in crude protein content (20.2-23.6%), neutral detergent fibre (48.3-54.2%) and acid detergent fibre (37.2-42.8%). DIVA-GIS analysis highlighted the existence of diversity-rich pockets in the southwestern region of Jammu and Kashmir. These areas represent valuable reservoirs of genetic diversity and could play a crucial role in conservation strategies while offering insights into the taxonomy, origin and evolution of the species in the Himalayan region.